EPZ K5 vs Kiwi Ears KE4: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Kiwi Ears KE4 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 81. 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 3 of 4 measures.

EPZ K5
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

6.5

8.6

Value

6.7

8.6

Price (USD)

$120

$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

Kiwi Ears KE4 (2024) against EPZ K5 (2023). 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.

K52023
KE420241 yr newer

Specifications

K5KE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $120; $200
HearWiki score: 58; 81
Released: 2023; 2024
Availability: Discontinued; Discontinued
Driver: 1DD + 4BA hybrid; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: hybrid; hybrid
Driver configuration: 1DD + 4BA; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: -; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 5; 4
Impedance: -; 28 Ω
Active noise cancelling: -; No
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
Connector: 2-pin 0.78 mm; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of EPZ K5 vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	EPZ K5	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$120	$200
HearWiki score	58 / 100 Average	81 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2023	2024
Audio
Driver	1DD + 4BA hybrid	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	hybrid	hybrid
Driver configuration	1DD + 4BA	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	-	10 mm
Drivers per side	5	4
Impedance	-	28 Ω
Features
Active noise cancelling	-	No
Design
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
Connector	2-pin 0.78 mm	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

EPZ K5

This wired hybrid earphone pairs a single dynamic driver with four balanced-armature units to deliver a crisp, detailed sound while keeping a musical, engaging character. It's built for everyday and extended listening, offering a balanced tuning that suits those who want clarity without sacrificing warmth. Detachable 2-pin cables add versatility for upgrades or replacements.

Pro:Detailed and clear sound signature
Pro:Warm, musical tuning for long sessions
Pro:Hybrid 5-driver setup for good separation

Con:No noise cancellation for noisy environments
Con:May require a good source to shine
Con:Fit might not suit all ear shapes

Kiwi Ears KE4

The Kiwi Ears KE4 is a hybrid IEM that delivers a balanced, smooth sound signature with a touch of added bass and treble sparkle, making it a versatile choice for many genres. It offers solid clarity and a comfortable fit, though its tuning leans relaxed rather than aggressive, and it lacks the ultimate resolving power of pricier models. Overall, it's a polished performer around the $200 mark that suits listeners who prefer a neutral yet slightly warm presentation.

Pro:Well-balanced tuning with a relaxing character
Pro:Rich lower mids and airy treble
Pro:Comfortable fit for long sessions

Con:Sub-bass can feel a bit overpowering at times
Con:Limited dynamics and resolving power compared to top-tier IEMs
Con:Accessories are minimal

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 EPZ K5 Kiwi Ears KE4