DUNU DN-142 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 4 of 4 measures.

DUNU DN-142
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

8.5

8.6

Value

8.4

8.6

Price (USD)

$250

$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 DUNU DN-142 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.

DN-14220262 yr newer
KE42024

Specifications

DN-142KE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $250; $200
HearWiki score: 79; 84
Released: 2026; 2024
Availability: Sold new; Still sold new
Driver: 1DD + 4BA + 2PL tribrid; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: tribrid; hybrid
Driver configuration: 1DD + 4BA + 2PL; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: -; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 7; 4
Frequency response: 5 Hz - 40 kHz; -
Impedance: 37 Ω; 28 Ω
Sensitivity: 107 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Weight: 5.6 g; -
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
USB-C: No; -
Connector: 2-pin 0.78 mm; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of DUNU DN-142 vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	DUNU DN-142	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$250	$200
HearWiki score	79 / 100 Great	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2026	2024
Audio
Driver	1DD + 4BA + 2PL tribrid	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	tribrid	hybrid
Driver configuration	1DD + 4BA + 2PL	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	-	10 mm
Drivers per side	7	4
Frequency response	5 Hz - 40 kHz	-
Impedance	37 Ω	28 Ω
Sensitivity	107 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Design
Weight	5.6 g	-
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
USB-C	No	-
Connector	2-pin 0.78 mm	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

DUNU DN-142

The DUNU DN-142 is a wired tribrid IEM that combines a dynamic driver, four balanced armatures, and two planar drivers for a detailed, balanced sound signature. It comes with a high-quality silver-plated OCC copper cable and a versatile Q-Lock Mini interchangeable plug system, making it a solid choice for audiophiles seeking a premium portable listening experience.

Pro:Detailed and balanced sound from a 7-driver tribrid setup
Pro:Includes premium silver-plated OCC copper cable
Pro:Detachable 2-pin cable with Q-Lock Mini interchangeable plugs

Con:No active noise cancellation, so external noise may intrude
Con:Requires a wired source, limiting wireless convenience
Con:May need a quality amplifier to fully drive the 37-ohm impedance

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 DUNU DN-142 Kiwi Ears KE4