FiiO FD3 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.

FiiO FD3
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

6.9

8.6

Value

6.8

8.6

Price (USD)

$110

$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 3 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 3 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

FD32021
KE420243 yr newer

Specifications

FD3KE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $110; $200
HearWiki score: 64; 84
Released: 2021; 2024
Availability: Still sold new; Still sold new
Driver: 12 mm dynamic; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: dynamic; hybrid
Driver configuration: -; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: 12 mm; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 1; 4
Frequency response: 10 Hz - 40 kHz; -
Impedance: 32 Ω; 28 Ω
Sensitivity: 111 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Controls: buttons; -
Weight: 7 g; -
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
USB-C: No; -
Connector: 3.5 mm; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of FiiO FD3 vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	FiiO FD3	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$110	$200
HearWiki score	64 / 100 Good	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2021	2024
Audio
Driver	12 mm dynamic	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	dynamic	hybrid
Driver configuration	-	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	12 mm	10 mm
Drivers per side	1	4
Frequency response	10 Hz - 40 kHz	-
Impedance	32 Ω	28 Ω
Sensitivity	111 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Controls	buttons	-
Design
Weight	7 g	-
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
USB-C	No	-
Connector	3.5 mm	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

FiiO FD3

The FiiO FD3 is a budget-friendly wired IEM with a 12mm DLC dynamic driver that delivers a lively, bass-oriented sound with easy drivability. It offers a comfortable, light fit and a premium feel for its price, with a detachable cable and a generous accessory set. Its tuning can be slightly bright or boomy depending on ear tips, but overall it's a strong value for everyday listening.

Pro:Excellent value for the price
Pro:Lightweight and comfortable fit
Pro:Powerful, easy-to-drive dynamic sound

Con:Tuning can be bright or boomy with certain tips
Con:No active noise cancellation
Con:Sound signature may not suit neutral purists

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 FiiO FD3 Kiwi Ears KE4