Etymotic ER3SE Earphones 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.

Etymotic ER3SE Earphones
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

8.0

8.6

Value

6.4

8.6

Price (USD)

$210

$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 Etymotic ER3SE Earphones 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.

ER3SE Earphones20262 yr newer
KE42024

Specifications

ER3SE EarphonesKE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $210; $200
HearWiki score: 74; 84
Released: 2026; 2024
Availability: Sold new; Still sold new
Driver: balanced armature; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: balanced-armature; hybrid
Driver configuration: -; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: -; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 1; 4
Frequency response: 20 Hz - 16 kHz; -
Sound signature: neutral; -
Impedance: 22 Ω; 28 Ω
Sensitivity: 102 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: No; No
ANC type: none; -
Transparency mode: No; -
Companion app: No; -
Custom EQ: No; -
Wear detection: No; -
Controls: none; -
Foldable: No; -
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
USB-C: No; -
Connector: 3.5 mm; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of Etymotic ER3SE Earphones vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	Etymotic ER3SE Earphones	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$210	$200
HearWiki score	74 / 100 Great	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2026	2024
Audio
Driver	balanced armature	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	balanced-armature	hybrid
Driver configuration	-	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	-	10 mm
Drivers per side	1	4
Frequency response	20 Hz - 16 kHz	-
Sound signature	neutral	-
Impedance	22 Ω	28 Ω
Sensitivity	102 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
ANC type	none	-
Transparency mode	No	-
Companion app	No	-
Custom EQ	No	-
Wear detection	No	-
Controls	none	-
Design
Foldable	No	-
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
USB-C	No	-
Connector	3.5 mm	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

Etymotic ER3SE Earphones

The Etymotic ER3SE is a wired, single balanced-armature in-ear monitor built for accurate, reference-style sound with a lean, neutral tuning. Its deep-insertion design delivers class-leading passive isolation, making it a strong choice for analytical listening in noisy environments, though it lacks consumer-friendly bass warmth and features.

Pro:Accurate, neutral reference tuning
Pro:Excellent passive noise isolation
Pro:Compact, durable build with accessories

Con:Lean bass response may disappoint bass lovers
Con:Deep insertion fit not for everyone
Con:No inline controls or app support

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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