FiiO FD5 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.

FiiO FD5
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

7.2

8.6

Value

4.0

8.6

Price (USD)

$290

$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 4 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 4 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

FD52020
KE420244 yr newer

Specifications

FD5KE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $290; $200
HearWiki score: 58; 84
Released: 2020; 2024
Availability: Discontinued; 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: 109 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Weight: 11 g; -
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
USB-C: No; -
Connector: 4.4 mm balanced; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of FiiO FD5 vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	FiiO FD5	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$290	$200
HearWiki score	58 / 100 Average	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2020	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	109 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Design
Weight	11 g	-
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
USB-C	No	-
Connector	4.4 mm balanced	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

FiiO FD5

The FiiO FD5 is a premium single-dynamic-driver IEM that balances robust bass with crisp highs and a wide soundstage. Its semi-open design, detachable cable, and interchangeable nozzles add versatility, while the lightweight build and high sensitivity make it easy to drive from most sources.

Pro:Fast, punchy bass response
Pro:Spacious and clear treble presentation
Pro:Interchangeable nozzles and cable terminations

Con:Premium price point for the category
Con:Semi-open design may leak sound
Con:Requires a balanced source for full potential

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 FD5 Kiwi Ears KE4