Beyerdynamic DT 30 IE 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

Score 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.

Beyerdynamic DT 30 IE
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

7.6

8.6

Value

8.1

8.6

Price (USD)

$150

$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 8 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 8 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

DT 30 IE2016
KE420248 yr newer

Specifications

DT 30 IEKE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $150; $200
HearWiki score: 73; 84
Released: 2016; 2024
Availability: Still sold new; Still sold new
Driver: 11 mm dynamic; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: dynamic; hybrid
Driver configuration: -; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: 11 mm; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 1; 4
Frequency response: 5 Hz - 20 kHz; -
Impedance: 18 Ω; 28 Ω
Sensitivity: 111 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Water resistance: IP54; -
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
USB-C: No; -
Connector: 3.5 mm; 3.5 mm
Model code: 1002511; -

Specification comparison of Beyerdynamic DT 30 IE vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	Beyerdynamic DT 30 IE	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$150	$200
HearWiki score	73 / 100 Great	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2016	2024
Audio
Driver	11 mm dynamic	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	dynamic	hybrid
Driver configuration	-	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	11 mm	10 mm
Drivers per side	1	4
Frequency response	5 Hz - 20 kHz	-
Impedance	18 Ω	28 Ω
Sensitivity	111 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Design
Water resistance	IP54	-
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
USB-C	No	-
Connector	3.5 mm	3.5 mm
Model code	1002511	-

What reviewers said

Beyerdynamic DT 30 IE

The Beyerdynamic DT 30 IE is a wired, stage-focused in-ear monitor built around a single 11 mm dynamic driver, offering solid passive isolation and a durable, practical design. With an IP54 rating and a detachable cable, it's tailored for musicians and live performers who need reliable sound and ruggedness at a reasonable price. Its tuning prioritizes clarity and low distortion over flashy consumer bass, making it a straightforward professional tool.

Pro:Strong passive isolation for stage use
Pro:Durable build with IP54 water resistance
Pro:Detachable cable for easy replacement

Con:Wired only with no Bluetooth or ANC
Con:Sound signature may lack consumer-friendly bass
Con:Limited accessory ecosystem at this price

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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