Wired IEMs
AKG N5005
84Great
$285
Full review dataAKG N5005 vs Moondrop KATO: 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
Moondrop KATO
78Great
$180
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
Moondrop KATO
Sound8.0
Value7.5
Specifications
| Spec | AKG N5005 | Moondrop KATO |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wired IEMs | Wired IEMs |
| Price (USD) | $285 | $180 |
| HearWiki score | 84 / 100 · Great | 78 / 100 · Great |
| Released | 2018 | 2021 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | 1 dynamic + 4 balanced armature | 10mm-ULT dynamic driver |
| Driver size | 9.2 mm | 10 mm |
| Drivers per side | 5 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 10Hz-40kHz | 10Hz-45kHz |
| Impedance | 18 Ω | 32 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 116 dB/mW | 123 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 | - |
| Controls | - | buttons |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 11.4 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
Moondrop KATO
The Moondrop KATO is a single dynamic driver wired IEM that offers a smooth, balanced tuning with an easy-to-drive design, making it a solid mid-fi choice for many listeners. It delivers a spacious soundstage and refined presentation, though it may lack hard-hitting bass impact and can occasionally sound sharp or fatiguing depending on the source. Overall, it's a well-built, versatile earphone with strong value in its price bracket, though not the most technically aggressive option.
- Pro:Easy to drive with high sensitivity and 32-ohm impedance
- Pro:Smooth, balanced tonal character with a wide soundstage
- Pro:Solid build quality and generous accessory package
- Con:Can sound sharp or fatiguing at times
- Con:Lacks strong bass slam and impact
- Con:Not the most technically detailed or clear performer
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
Compare something else
Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.