Wired IEMs
AKG N5005
84Great
$285
Full review dataAKG N5005 vs Hidizs MK12: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the AKG N5005 comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: AKG N5005 - Great overall at around $285.
Wired IEMs
Hidizs MK12
78Great
$209
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
AKG N5005
Sound9.0
Battery6.0
Value6.5
Hidizs MK12
Sound8.0
Value8.0
Specifications
| Spec | AKG N5005 | Hidizs MK12 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wired IEMs | Wired IEMs |
| Price (USD) | $285 | $209 |
| HearWiki score | 84 / 100 · Great | 78 / 100 · Great |
| Released | 2018 | 2025 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | 1 dynamic + 4 balanced armature | Single dynamic driver with 91% pure magnesium M-shaped dome diaphragm and external magnet circuit |
| Driver size | 9.2 mm | 12 mm |
| Drivers per side | 5 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 10Hz-40kHz | 10Hz-45kHz |
| Impedance | 18 Ω | 32 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 116 dB/mW | 111 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Bluetooth | 4.1 | - |
| Codecs | AptX, SBC | - |
| Multipoint pairing | No | - |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 8 h | - |
| Full charge time | 120 min | - |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | - |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 11.4 g | 19 g |
| Detachable cable | Yes | - |
| USB-C | - | No |
What reviewers said
AKG N5005
The AKG N5005 is a premium hybrid in-ear monitor that pairs a dynamic driver with four balanced armatures for detailed, reference-grade sound. It offers versatile tuning options and a strong accessory set, though its wired-only connection and lack of noise cancellation may limit its appeal for some listeners. Priced around $199, it delivers high-end performance that rivals far more expensive models.
- Pro:Excellent clarity and detail retrieval
- Pro:Multiple tuning filters for sound customization
- Pro:Solid build quality with detachable cable
- Con:No wireless or noise-canceling support
- Con:Lacks aptX HD codec
- Con:Price may still feel steep for some
Hidizs MK12
The Hidizs MK12 is a single-dynamic-driver IEM that delivers a well-rounded, balanced sound with strong bass, clear mids, and good detail retrieval for its price. It's easy to drive, comfortable, and offers tuning nozzles for sound customization, though treble can be slightly uneven and isolation is limited. Overall, it's a solid value pick in the $150–$200 range.
- Pro:Easy to drive from most sources
- Pro:Comfortable fit for long sessions
- Pro:Good detail and technical performance
- Con:Treble can be slightly uneven or sharp with some tips
- Con:Lower mids may sound a bit hazy
- Con:Limited passive noise isolation
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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