Wired IEMs
DUNU DN-242
84Outstanding
$350
Full review dataDUNU DN-242 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
Kiwi Ears KE4
84Outstanding
$200
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Kiwi Ears KE4 leads on 3 of 4 measures.
- DUNU DN-242
- Kiwi Ears KE4
HearWiki score
84
84
Sound
8.7
8.6
Value
7.8
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 DUNU DN-242 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-24220262 yr newer
- KE42024
Specifications
DN-242KE4
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $350
- $200
- HearWiki score
- 84
- 84
- Released
- 2026
- 2024
- Availability
- Sold new
- Still sold new
- Driver
- 2DD + 4BA + 2PL tribrid
- 2DD + 2BA hybrid
- Driver type
- tribrid
- hybrid
- Driver configuration
- 2DD + 4BA + 2PL
- 2DD + 2BA
- Driver size
- 10 mm
- 10 mm
- Drivers per side
- 8
- 4
- Frequency response
- 5 Hz - 40 kHz
- -
- Impedance
- 35 Ω
- 28 Ω
- Sensitivity
- 110 dB/mW
- -
- Active noise cancelling
- No
- No
- ANC type
- none
- -
- Transparency mode
- No
- -
- Companion app
- No
- -
- Custom EQ
- No
- -
- Wear detection
- No
- -
- Controls
- none
- -
- Voice assistant
- No
- -
- Weight
- 6 g
- -
- Water resistance
- none
- -
- Foldable
- No
- -
- Detachable cable
- Yes
- Yes
- USB-C
- No
- -
- Connector
- 2-pin 0.78 mm
- 3.5 mm
What reviewers said
DUNU DN-242
The DUNU DN-242 is a premium wired in-ear monitor built around an eight-driver tribrid configuration, combining dual dynamics, four balanced armatures, and two planar drivers through a five-way crossover for a cohesive, natural sound. Its lightweight 6-gram build and interchangeable 2-pin connector system add practical versatility for audiophile use. Launched in 2024, this model targets listeners seeking detailed, multi-driver tuning without wireless features or onboard controls.
- Pro:Complex tribrid driver array for layered, detailed sound
- Pro:Very lightweight at just 6 grams for extended comfort
- Pro:Interchangeable 2-pin connector adds cable flexibility
- Con:No active noise cancellation or transparency mode
- Con:No inline controls or app support for adjustments
- Con:Requires a separate amplifier for optimal performance due to 35-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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