Campfire Audio Comet 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 5 measures.

Campfire Audio Comet
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

5.9

8.6

Calls

5.5

Value

4.6

8.6

Price (USD)

$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.

Comet2018
KE420246 yr newer

Specifications

CometKE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $200; $200
HearWiki score: 42; 84
Released: 2018; 2024
Availability: Discontinued; Still sold new
Driver: balanced armature; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: balanced-armature; hybrid
Driver configuration: -; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: -; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 1; 4
Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz; -
Impedance: 48 Ω; 28 Ω
Sensitivity: 97 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
Connector: MMCX; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of Campfire Audio Comet vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	Campfire Audio Comet	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$200	$200
HearWiki score	42 / 100 Weak	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2018	2024
Audio
Driver	balanced armature	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	balanced-armature	hybrid
Driver configuration	-	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	-	10 mm
Drivers per side	1	4
Frequency response	20 Hz - 20 kHz	-
Impedance	48 Ω	28 Ω
Sensitivity	97 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Design
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
Connector	MMCX	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

Campfire Audio Comet

The Campfire Audio Comet is a single balanced-armature wired IEM that offers a lively, well-balanced sound with notable build quality for its price. It serves as an accessible entry point into the brand's lineup, though its higher impedance and lower sensitivity mean it benefits from a more capable source. Its compact metal shell and MMCX detachable cable add durability and flexibility, while passive isolation is decent for a wired monitor.

Pro:Excellent build quality with metal housing
Pro:Engaging, versatile sound with good bass control
Pro:Strong passive isolation

Con:Requires more power than typical earphones
Con:Detail and imaging are only average
Con:Sound and fit can vary with ear tips

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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