Wired IEMs
Apple EarPods (Lightning Connector)
58Average
$19
Full review dataApple EarPods (Lightning Connector) vs KZ Krila: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the KZ Krila comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 78. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: KZ Krila - Great overall at around $34.
Wired IEMs
KZ Krila
78Great
$34
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Apple EarPods (Lightning Connector)
Sound5.0
Calls6.0
Value6.0
KZ Krila
Sound8.0
Value9.0
Specifications
| Spec | Apple EarPods (Lightning Connector) | KZ Krila |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wired IEMs | Wired IEMs |
| Price (USD) | $19 | $34 |
| HearWiki score | 58 / 100 · Average | 78 / 100 · Great |
| Released | 2016 | 2023 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | dynamic | 1DD + 1BA hybrid (2nd-gen 10 mm XUN dynamic driver + 30005 balanced armature) |
| Driver size | 14.2 mm | 10 mm |
| Drivers per side | 2 | 2 |
| Frequency response | 20Hz-20kHz | 20Hz-40kHz |
| Impedance | 42 Ω | 28 Ω |
| Sensitivity | - | 106 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Multipoint pairing | No | No |
| Battery | ||
| Wireless charging | - | No |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | No |
| Controls | buttons | - |
| Design | ||
| Detachable cable | No | - |
| USB-C | No | No |
| Calls | ||
| Microphones | 1 | - |
What reviewers said
Apple EarPods (Lightning Connector)
These wired Apple earbuds connect via Lightning and offer a straightforward, hassle-free listening experience. While they avoid harshness and have a clean mid-range, their sound is somewhat flat and bass-heavy, lacking the detail and dynamics that audiophiles might seek. They are a functional, basic option for casual listeners, but not a standout choice for those prioritizing audio quality.
- Pro:Comfortable, open design fits most ears
- Pro:No harshness in treble, easy to listen to
- Pro:Simple, plug-and-play connection for Lightning devices
- Con:Bass is heavy-handed and can overpower other frequencies
- Con:Lack of detail, dynamics, and overall insight
- Con:Sounds flatter than older models with less separation
KZ Krila
The KZ Krila is a budget-friendly hybrid IEM that pairs a 10mm dynamic driver with a balanced armature for a surprisingly mature, well-balanced sound. It offers excellent build quality and technical performance that rivals pricier models, though its treble can occasionally come across as sharp and the tuning switches provide only subtle changes. For the price, it delivers strong value and comfortable fit, making it a solid pick for budget-conscious listeners.
- Pro:Excellent build quality for the price
- Pro:Well-balanced, mature sound signature
- Pro:Strong technical performance and detail retrieval
- Con:Treble can be harsh at times
- Con:Tuning switches have minimal audible effect
- Con:Lacks features like ANC or wireless connectivity
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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