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TRN ST1 Pro vs TRUTHEAR GATE: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the TRUTHEAR GATE comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 82. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: TRUTHEAR GATE - Outstanding overall at around $22.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

TRUTHEAR GATE leads on 3 of 4 measures.

  • TRN ST1 Pro
  • TRUTHEAR GATE
HearWiki score
59
82
Sound
6.6
7.5
Value
7.6
8.5
Price (USD)
$20
$22

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

The TRUTHEAR GATE is 5 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price. For 5 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • ST1 Pro2019
  • GATE20245 yr newer

Specifications

ST1 ProGATE
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$20
$22
HearWiki score
59
82
Released
2019
2024
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
2-driver hybrid
10 mm dynamic
Driver type
hybrid
dynamic
Driver size
10 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
2
1
Frequency response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
10 Hz - 45 kHz
Impedance
28 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
110 dB/mW
122 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
-
122
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
buttons
buttons
Voice assistant
No
-
Weight
4.7 g
2.7 g
Water resistance
IPX4
-
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
No
Connector
3.5 mm
2-pin 0.78 mm
Microphones
-
1

What reviewers said

TRN ST1 Pro

The TRN ST1 Pro is a budget-friendly wired in-ear monitor that pairs a 10mm dynamic driver with a hybrid configuration for a fuller soundstage. It offers a detachable cable, IPX4 sweat resistance, and physical buttons for control, making it a practical choice for listeners who prefer a traditional 3.5mm connection. At around $20, it aims to deliver solid performance without breaking the bank.

  • Pro:Affordable price point
  • Pro:Hybrid dual-driver design for balanced audio
  • Pro:Detachable cable for easy replacement
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:No USB-C connectivity
  • Con:Lacks voice assistant support

TRUTHEAR GATE

The Truthear GATE is a wired, ultra-budget in-ear monitor that delivers surprisingly mature tuning and solid detail for its low price. It offers a balanced sound with good sub-bass extension, though it has a few tonal quirks and ergonomic compromises. Overall, it's a strong value pick for budget-conscious listeners seeking a natural, no-frills listening experience.

  • Pro:Excellent tuning and clarity for the price
  • Pro:Good sub-bass extension and overall balance
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for most ears
  • Con:Slightly lean and thin lower-midrange
  • Con:Treble can be rough or lacking refinement
  • Con:Ergonomics could be better for some users

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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