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Campfire Audio Iris - Hybrid IEM 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.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Kiwi Ears KE4 leads on 4 of 4 measures.

  • Campfire Audio Iris - Hybrid IEM
  • Kiwi Ears KE4
HearWiki score
77
84
Sound
8.2
8.6
Value
7.3
8.6
Price (USD)
$350
$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 Campfire Audio Iris - Hybrid IEM is 2 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.

  • Iris - Hybrid IEM20262 yr newer
  • KE42024

Specifications

Iris - Hybrid IEMKE4
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$350
$200
HearWiki score
77
84
Released
2026
2024
Availability
Sold new
Still sold new
Driver
2-driver hybrid
2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type
hybrid
hybrid
Driver configuration
-
2DD + 2BA
Driver size
10 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
2
4
Frequency response
5 Hz - 20 kHz
-
Impedance
14.8 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
111 dB/mW
-
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
buttons
-
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
-
Connector
4.4 mm balanced
3.5 mm

What reviewers said

Campfire Audio Iris - Hybrid IEM

The Campfire Audio Iris is a compact hybrid IEM with a warm, bass-forward sound that remains well-controlled, offering punchy lows, a smooth midrange, and clean treble. Its ergonomic shell suits smaller ears, and the generous accessory kit, including quality stock cables, adds value, though isolation may depend on tip selection and its soundstage depth is modest for the price.

  • Pro:Deep, controlled bass response
  • Pro:Comfortable and lightweight fit
  • Pro:Strong stock cables and accessories
  • Con:Isolation varies with ear tips
  • Con:Limited soundstage depth
  • Con:Upper treble can be aggressive

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.

Compare something else

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New comparisonCampfire Audio Iris - Hybrid IEMKiwi Ears KE4