Wired IEMs
AKG N5005
63Good
$290
Full review dataAKG N5005 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 4 of 5 measures.
- AKG N5005
- Kiwi Ears KE4
HearWiki score
63
84
Sound
8.1
8.6
Battery
3.5
-
Value
-
8.6
Price (USD)
$290
$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 6 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 6 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.
- N50052018
- KE420246 yr newer
Specifications
N5005KE4
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $290
- $200
- HearWiki score
- 63
- 84
- Released
- 2018
- 2024
- Availability
- Discontinued
- Still sold new
- Driver
- 1DD + 1BA hybrid
- 2DD + 2BA hybrid
- Driver type
- hybrid
- hybrid
- Driver configuration
- 1DD + 1BA
- 2DD + 2BA
- Driver size
- 9.2 mm
- 10 mm
- Drivers per side
- 2
- 4
- Frequency response
- 10 Hz - 40 kHz
- -
- Impedance
- 18 Ω
- 28 Ω
- Sensitivity
- 116 dB/mW
- -
- Bluetooth
- 4.1
- -
- Codecs
- SBC, aptX
- -
- Multipoint pairing
- No
- -
- Battery life
- 8 h
- -
- Full charge time
- 120 min
- -
- Active noise cancelling
- No
- No
- Weight
- 11.4 g
- -
- Detachable cable
- Yes
- Yes
- Connector
- -
- 3.5 mm
What reviewers said
AKG N5005
The AKG N5005 is a premium hybrid in-ear monitor that blends a single dynamic driver with a balanced armature for detailed, reference-style sound. It offers a highly customizable fit with multiple tips and a detachable cable, plus wireless convenience via Bluetooth with SBC and aptX support. While its price was lofty at launch, it remains a technically strong choice for audiophiles seeking versatility.
- Pro:Excellent, detailed and reference-grade sound quality
- Pro:Hybrid driver design delivers deep bass and clear highs
- Pro:Versatile tuning options and comfortable fit
- Con:High price point relative to some competitors
- Con:No active noise cancellation
- Con:Bluetooth 4.1 and only SBC/aptX codecs, no aptX HD
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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