Wired IEMs
AFUL PERFORMER 5+2
81Outstanding
$240
Full review dataAFUL PERFORMER 5+2 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.
Wired IEMs
Kiwi Ears KE4
84Outstanding
$200
Full review dataScore 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.
- AFUL PERFORMER 5+2
- Kiwi Ears KE4
HearWiki score
81
84
Sound
8.4
8.6
Value
8.7
8.6
Price (USD)
$240
$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.
- PERFORMER 5+22024
- KE42024
Specifications
PERFORMER 5+2KE4
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $240
- $200
- HearWiki score
- 81
- 84
- Released
- 2024
- 2024
- Availability
- Still sold new
- Still sold new
- Driver
- 2DD + 4BA + 1PL tribrid
- 2DD + 2BA hybrid
- Driver type
- tribrid
- hybrid
- Driver configuration
- 2DD + 4BA + 1PL
- 2DD + 2BA
- Driver size
- -
- 10 mm
- Drivers per side
- 7
- 4
- Impedance
- 15 Ω
- 28 Ω
- Active noise cancelling
- -
- No
- Detachable cable
- -
- Yes
- Connector
- 2-pin 0.78 mm
- 3.5 mm
What reviewers said
AFUL PERFORMER 5+2
The AFUL PERFORMER 5+2 is a wired tribrid IEM that delivers a balanced yet slightly lively sound, making it a versatile all-rounder for various genres. Its strong technical performance, engaging tuning, and solid build quality offer excellent value in its price bracket, though the included accessories feel a bit sparse for the cost.
- Pro:Engaging, well-balanced tuning with a slight energetic tilt
- Pro:Excellent technical performance across genres
- Pro:Solid build quality for the price
- Con:Accessory package feels underwhelming for the price
- Con:Not strictly neutral, may not suit purists
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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