7HZ FIVE vs Kiwi Ears KE4: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Kiwi Ears KE4 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 81. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

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

Wired IEMs

Score breakdown

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

Kiwi Ears KE4 leads on 3 of 4 measures.

7HZ FIVE
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

6.6

8.6

Value

5.8

8.6

Price (USD)

$150

$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

Both shipped in 2024. These are 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.

FIVE2024
KE42024

Specifications

FIVEKE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $150; $200
HearWiki score: 61; 81
Released: 2024; 2024
Availability: Discontinued; Discontinued
Driver: 5DD; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: dynamic; hybrid
Driver configuration: 5DD; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: 6 mm; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 5; 4
Impedance: -; 28 Ω
Active noise cancelling: -; No
Detachable cable: -; Yes
Connector: -; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of 7HZ FIVE vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	7HZ FIVE	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$150	$200
HearWiki score	61 / 100 Average	81 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2024	2024
Audio
Driver	5DD	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	dynamic	hybrid
Driver configuration	5DD	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	6 mm	10 mm
Drivers per side	5	4
Impedance	-	28 Ω
Features
Active noise cancelling	-	No
Design
Detachable cable	-	Yes
Connector	-	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

7HZ FIVE

This wired in-ear monitor packs five custom 6mm dynamic drivers per side, each housed in its own acoustic chamber to deliver a detailed and immersive listening experience. The multi-driver setup aims for high-fidelity reproduction across the frequency range, making it a solid choice for critical music listening without any active noise cancellation.

Pro:Five dynamic drivers per side for rich, layered sound
Pro:Individual acoustic chambers reduce driver interference
Pro:Compact 6mm drivers allow for a comfortable fit

Con:No active noise cancellation, so external sounds bleed in
Con:Requires a separate amplifier or high-quality source to shine
Con:Five drivers may add weight or bulk compared to single-driver IEMs

Kiwi Ears KE4

The Kiwi Ears KE4 is a hybrid IEM that delivers a balanced, smooth sound signature with a touch of added bass and treble sparkle, making it a versatile choice for many genres. It offers solid clarity and a comfortable fit, though its tuning leans relaxed rather than aggressive, and it lacks the ultimate resolving power of pricier models. Overall, it's a polished performer around the $200 mark that suits listeners who prefer a neutral yet slightly warm presentation.

Pro:Well-balanced tuning with a relaxing character
Pro:Rich lower mids and airy treble
Pro:Comfortable fit for long sessions

Con:Sub-bass can feel a bit overpowering at times
Con:Limited dynamics and resolving power compared to top-tier IEMs
Con:Accessories are minimal

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 comparison 7HZ FIVE Kiwi Ears KE4