Skip to content
HearWiki

Cozoy D2 vs KZ ESX: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Cozoy D2 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 81. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Cozoy D2 - Outstanding overall at around $55.

Score breakdown

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

Cozoy D2 leads on 3 of 4 measures.

  • Cozoy D2
  • KZ ESX
HearWiki score
81
57
Sound
8.5
5.9
Value
9.0
3.8
Price (USD)
$55
$51

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 Cozoy D2 is 4 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 4 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • D220264 yr newer
  • ESX2022

Specifications

D2ESX
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$55
$51
HearWiki score
81
57
Released
2026
2022
Availability
Sold new
Still sold new
Driver
2DD
12 mm dynamic
Driver type
dynamic
dynamic
Driver configuration
2DD
-
Driver size
-
12 mm
Drivers per side
2
1
Frequency response
-
20 Hz - 40 kHz
Impedance
20 Ω
22 Ω
Sensitivity
-
111.6 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling
-
No
Controls
-
buttons
Detachable cable
-
Yes
USB-C
-
No
Connector
2-pin 0.78 mm
3.5 mm

What reviewers said

Cozoy D2

The Cozoy D2 is a budget-friendly wired IEM that pairs a 6 mm beryllium driver with a 10 mm graphene-composite driver for a dual-dynamic setup. It offers a flexible connection via a 2-pin 0.78 mm cable that includes swappable 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm plugs, catering to both standard and balanced sources. With a 20-ohm impedance, it's easy to drive from most devices.

  • Pro:Dual-driver hybrid design for detailed sound
  • Pro:Interchangeable 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm plugs
  • Pro:Low impedance (20 ohms) for easy pairing
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Wired only, limiting portability
  • Con:Budget build may not suit all users

KZ ESX

The KZ ESX is a budget wired IEM built around a single 12mm dynamic driver, offering a straightforward, no-frills listening experience with a detachable cable and inline controls. It prioritizes affordability and solid construction over audiophile-grade refinement, making it a practical choice for casual listeners. While it can sound congested with complex tracks, it delivers acceptable performance for its modest price point.

  • Pro:Affordable price point
  • Pro:Durable build quality
  • Pro:Detachable cable for easy replacement
  • Con:Lacks resolution and can sound congested with busy music
  • Con:Not competitive with pricier IEMs on technical performance
  • Con:No active noise cancellation

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.