Etymotic ER2XR 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.

Etymotic ER2XR
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

7.9

8.6

Value

6.8

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 Kiwi Ears KE4 is 5 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. For 5 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

ER2XR2019
KE420245 yr newer

Specifications

ER2XRKE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $160; $200
HearWiki score: 73; 84
Released: 2019; 2024
Availability: Still sold new; Still sold new
Driver: dynamic; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: dynamic; hybrid
Driver configuration: -; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: -; 10 mm
Drivers per side: -; 4
Impedance: 15 Ω; 28 Ω
Sensitivity: 96 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Detachable cable: -; Yes
Connector: -; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of Etymotic ER2XR vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	Etymotic ER2XR	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$160	$200
HearWiki score	73 / 100 Great	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2019	2024
Audio
Driver	dynamic	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	dynamic	hybrid
Driver configuration	-	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	-	10 mm
Drivers per side	-	4
Impedance	15 Ω	28 Ω
Sensitivity	96 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Design
Detachable cable	-	Yes
Connector	-	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

Etymotic ER2XR

The Etymotic ER2XR is a wired, dynamic-driver IEM that offers a neutral-to-slightly-warm sound with a mild bass boost, while keeping the brand's signature deep isolation and technical clarity. It delivers highly detailed, natural audio that stands out among budget-friendly in-ears, backed by a lightweight build and a solid accessory package. For its price, it punches well above its weight in resolution and balance, making it a strong pick for critical listeners.

Pro:Excellent clarity and detail retrieval
Pro:Neutral with a subtle warm tilt and mild bass lift
Pro:Superb passive isolation

Con:Thin note texture may not suit bass lovers
Con:Requires a good seal for optimal performance
Con:Cable is not replaceable

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 Etymotic ER2XR Kiwi Ears KE4