FiiO FF5 vs Kiwi Ears KE4: which should you buy?

Specs, scores and condensed review verdicts for the FiiO FF5 vs Kiwi Ears KE4, side by side. Where a product has no HearWiki score yet, not enough reviews have been aggregated to rate it.

Wired IEMs

FiiO FF5

Not yet scored

$130

Full review data

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 FF5
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

8.6

Value

8.6

Price (USD)

$130

$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

Both shipped in 2024. These are 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.

FF52024
KE42024

Specifications

FF5KE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $130; $200
HearWiki score: Not scored; 84
Released: 2024; 2024
Availability: Discontinued; Still sold new
Driver: 14.2 mm dynamic; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: dynamic; hybrid
Driver configuration: -; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: 14.2 mm; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 1; 4
Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz; -
Impedance: 45 Ω; 28 Ω
Sensitivity: 106 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Controls: none; -
Weight: 3.4 g; -
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
USB-C: No; -
Connector: MMCX; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of FiiO FF5 vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	FiiO FF5	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$130	$200
HearWiki score	Not scored	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2024	2024
Audio
Driver	14.2 mm dynamic	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	dynamic	hybrid
Driver configuration	-	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	14.2 mm	10 mm
Drivers per side	1	4
Frequency response	20 Hz - 20 kHz	-
Impedance	45 Ω	28 Ω
Sensitivity	106 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Controls	none	-
Design
Weight	3.4 g	-
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
USB-C	No	-
Connector	MMCX	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

FiiO FF5

The FiiO FF5 is a lightweight, wired earbud with a detachable MMCX cable and a 14.2mm dynamic driver, housed in a CNC aluminum alloy shell. It focuses on clear vocal reproduction, particularly female vocals, and offers swappable 3.5mm and 4.4mm connectors for versatile connectivity. Its open design and low weight make it a comfortable option for critical listening on the go.

Pro:Detachable MMCX cable for easy replacement or upgrades
Pro:Lightweight at only 3.4g, reducing ear fatigue
Pro:Carbon-based dynamic driver delivers clear midrange detail

Con:No inline controls or microphone
Con:Open-back design offers little sound isolation
Con:Requires a separate amplifier for best performance due to 45-ohm impedance

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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