CrinEar Nightfall 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.

Neither pulls ahead overall - they trade wins across the measures.

CrinEar Nightfall
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

8.0

8.6

Value

9.0

8.6

Price (USD)

$100

$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

CrinEar Nightfall (2025) against Kiwi Ears KE4 (2024). These are 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.

Nightfall20251 yr newer
KE42024

Specifications

NightfallKE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $100; $200
HearWiki score: 76; 84
Released: 2025; 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: 2 Hz - 38 kHz; -
Impedance: 9 Ω; 28 Ω
Sensitivity: 104 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: -; No
Detachable cable: -; Yes
Connector: 4.4 mm balanced; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of CrinEar Nightfall vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	CrinEar Nightfall	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$100	$200
HearWiki score	76 / 100 Great	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2025	2024
Audio
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	2 Hz - 38 kHz	-
Impedance	9 Ω	28 Ω
Sensitivity	104 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	-	No
Design
Detachable cable	-	Yes
Connector	4.4 mm balanced	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

CrinEar Nightfall

The CrinEar Nightfall is a wired hybrid IEM that offers a safe, neutral-leaning sound signature for around $100. While it generates some buzz in budget audio circles, its performance is considered unremarkable and lacks the dynamic impact of pricier CrinEar models. It's a decent option for those seeking a balanced, no-frills listen with a 4.4mm balanced connection, but not a standout in its class.

Pro:Wired hybrid design with a 10mm dynamic driver and balanced armature
Pro:Compact, lightweight build suitable for portable use
Pro:Balanced 4.4mm termination for improved channel separation

Con:Safe tuning may come across as dull or lacking in excitement
Con:Lacks the bass reach and impact of higher-end CrinEar models
Con:No active noise cancellation, so isolation relies entirely on fit

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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New comparison CrinEar Nightfall Kiwi Ears KE4