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1MORE Quad Driver vs Kiwi Ears KE4: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Kiwi Ears KE4 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Kiwi Ears KE4 - Outstanding overall at around $199.

Score breakdown

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

Kiwi Ears KE4 leads on 3 of 5 measures.

  • 1MORE Quad Driver
  • Kiwi Ears KE4
HearWiki score
65
84
Sound
7.2
8.6
Calls
5.8
-
Value
5.9
8.6
Price (USD)
$160
$200

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 Kiwi Ears KE4 is 4 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 4 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • Quad Driver2020
  • KE420244 yr newer

Specifications

Quad DriverKE4
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$160
$200
HearWiki score
65
84
Released
2020
2024
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
1DD + 3BA hybrid
2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type
hybrid
hybrid
Driver configuration
1DD + 3BA
2DD + 2BA
Driver size
-
10 mm
Drivers per side
4
4
Frequency response
20 Hz - 40 kHz
-
Impedance
32 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
99 dB/mW
-
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
buttons
-
Weight
18.5 g
-
Water resistance
none
-
Detachable cable
-
Yes
USB-C
No
-
Connector
3.5 mm
3.5 mm
Model code
E1010
-
Microphones
1
-
Microphone type
MEMS
-

What reviewers said

1MORE Quad Driver

The 1MORE Quad Driver is a wired hybrid IEM that combines a dynamic driver with three balanced armatures for detailed, bass-forward sound. It offers a lightweight, portable build and a neutral tuning, though its soundstage is narrow and isolation is below average. While it's a solid performer with Hi-Res support, its higher price over the Triple Driver may not translate into a significant upgrade for everyone.

  • Pro:Detailed hybrid sound with strong bass texture and resolution
  • Pro:Lightweight and portable design with decent build quality
  • Pro:Wide 20 Hz - 40 kHz frequency response with Hi-Res support
  • Con:Poor soundstage and sub-par noise isolation
  • Con:Earbuds can feel large and less comfortable for some
  • Con:Cable is thin and prone to microphonics

Kiwi Ears KE4

The Kiwi Ears KE4 is a wired hybrid IEM that offers a balanced, relaxing sound with a distinct twist on the popular 'New Meta' tuning, adding extra bass and treble sparkle. It delivers solid midrange clarity and a comfortable fit, making it a versatile choice for many genres, though its smooth presentation may not excite those seeking aggressive or highly dynamic sound.

  • Pro:Well-balanced hybrid tuning with rich lower mids and airy treble
  • Pro:Comfortable fit and broad genre versatility
  • Pro:Good resolution and clarity for its price
  • Con:Sub-bass can get overpowering at times
  • Con:Limited resolving power and dynamic impact
  • Con:Smooth tuning may feel less exciting than V-shaped alternatives

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

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New comparison1MORE Quad DriverKiwi Ears KE4