Skip to content
HearWiki

FiiO FH3 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.

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 FH3
  • Kiwi Ears KE4
HearWiki score
60
84
Sound
6.6
8.6
Value
5.4
8.6
Price (USD)
$120
$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.

  • FH32020
  • KE420244 yr newer

Specifications

FH3KE4
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$120
$200
HearWiki score
60
84
Released
2020
2024
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
1DD + 2BA hybrid
2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type
hybrid
hybrid
Driver configuration
1DD + 2BA
2DD + 2BA
Driver size
10 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
3
4
Frequency response
10 Hz - 40 kHz
-
Impedance
24 Ω
28 Ω
Sensitivity
114 dB/mW
-
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Weight
7.3 g
-
Water resistance
none
-
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
-
Connector
3.5 mm
3.5 mm

What reviewers said

FiiO FH3

The FiiO FH3 is a wired hybrid in-ear monitor that pairs a 10mm dynamic driver with two balanced armatures for a three-driver setup, offering a bass-forward yet composed sound with clear mids and airy treble. Its lightweight, detachable-cable design and high sensitivity make it easy to drive from a phone, while its tuning leans toward an engaging, relaxed character suited for long listens. Overall, it presents strong value in its price range, though its soundstage is intimate and sub-bass emphasis can color bass timbre.

  • Pro:Solid hybrid driver configuration with good bass punch and clarity
  • Pro:Comfortable, lightweight build with detachable cable
  • Pro:Easy to drive from smartphones or basic sources
  • Con:Soundstage feels somewhat narrow
  • Con:Sub-bass emphasis can affect bass timbre accuracy
  • Con:No accessories or features beyond the basic wired setup

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.

Compare something else

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.

New comparisonFiiO FH3Kiwi Ears KE4