EPZ P40 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 3 of 4 measures.

EPZ P40
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

7.2

8.6

Value

6.4

8.6

Price (USD)

$160

$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 EPZ P40 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.

P4020262 yr newer
KE42024

Specifications

P40KE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $160; $200
HearWiki score: 66; 84
Released: 2026; 2024
Availability: Sold new; Still sold new
Driver: 2DD + 1PL + 1PZT tribrid; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: tribrid; hybrid
Driver configuration: 2DD + 1PL + 1PZT; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: -; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 4; 4
Impedance: 14 Ω; 28 Ω
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Detachable cable: -; Yes
Connector: 2-pin 0.78 mm; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of EPZ P40 vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	EPZ P40	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$160	$200
HearWiki score	66 / 100 Good	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2026	2024
Audio
Driver	2DD + 1PL + 1PZT tribrid	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	tribrid	hybrid
Driver configuration	2DD + 1PL + 1PZT	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	-	10 mm
Drivers per side	4	4
Impedance	14 Ω	28 Ω
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Design
Detachable cable	-	Yes
Connector	2-pin 0.78 mm	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

EPZ P40

The EPZ P40 is a wired tribrid IEM that delivers a clean, precise sound with strong mids and solid technical performance, making it a standout in the sub-$200 range. Its crisp tuning and accurate imaging appeal to detail-focused listeners, though the treble may come across as sharp or cold to some. With a four-driver setup and 2-pin connector, it offers good value for audiophiles seeking clarity.

Pro:Strong midrange and clean bass
Pro:Good resolution and micro-detail
Pro:Precise imaging and transparency

Con:Treble can sound sharp or shouty
Con:Limited included eartips
Con:Needs quality source for best results

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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