DUNU Vulkan 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 Vulkan
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

7.1

8.6

Value

4.8

8.6

Price (USD)

$380

$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 Kiwi Ears KE4 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.

Vulkan2022
KE420242 yr newer

Specifications

VulkanKE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $380; $200
HearWiki score: 60; 84
Released: 2022; 2024
Availability: Discontinued; Still sold new
Driver: 2DD + 4BA hybrid; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: hybrid; hybrid
Driver configuration: 2DD + 4BA; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: 8 mm; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 6; 4
Impedance: 15 Ω; 28 Ω
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Weight: 17 g; -
Detachable cable: -; Yes
Connector: -; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of DUNU Vulkan vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	DUNU Vulkan	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$380	$200
HearWiki score	60 / 100 Average	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2022	2024
Audio
Driver	2DD + 4BA hybrid	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	hybrid	hybrid
Driver configuration	2DD + 4BA	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	8 mm	10 mm
Drivers per side	6	4
Impedance	15 Ω	28 Ω
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Design
Weight	17 g	-
Detachable cable	-	Yes
Connector	-	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

DUNU Vulkan

The DUNU Vulkan is a warm-leaning hybrid IEM that pairs a soft, mellow low end with restrained treble for a comfortable, easy-going listen. It offers solid imaging, a spacious soundstage, and generous accessories, making it a well-rounded value rather than a technical tour de force. Build quality is sturdy, though its tuning may not satisfy those seeking maximum detail or pristine timbre for acoustic tracks. Its bass is gently rounded, and while the overall balance is cohesive, it lacks the last bit of naturalness and control found in pricier competitors. Overall, it's an enjoyable, forgiving earphone that excels in comfort and presentation over raw precision.

Pro:Warm, non-fatiguing tuning that suits long sessions
Pro:Excellent imaging and a wide, airy soundstage
Pro:Sturdy build and premium accessory kit

Con:Bass can sound soft or slightly fuzzy
Con:Treble may edge toward harshness on some tracks
Con:Timbre and control are not ideal for acoustic music

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 Vulkan Kiwi Ears KE4