FiiO FH5s 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 FH5s
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

7.1

8.6

Value

5.3

8.6

Price (USD)

$250

$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.

FH5s2021
KE420243 yr newer

Specifications

FH5sKE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $250; $200
HearWiki score: 63; 84
Released: 2021; 2024
Availability: Still sold new; Still sold new
Driver: 2DD + 2BA hybrid; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: hybrid; hybrid
Driver configuration: 2DD + 2BA; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: 12 mm; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 4; 4
Frequency response: 10 Hz - 40 kHz; -
Impedance: 40 Ω; 28 Ω
Sensitivity: 106 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Weight: 8.8 g; -
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
Connector: MMCX; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of FiiO FH5s vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	FiiO FH5s	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$250	$200
HearWiki score	63 / 100 Good	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2021	2024
Audio
Driver	2DD + 2BA hybrid	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	hybrid	hybrid
Driver configuration	2DD + 2BA	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	12 mm	10 mm
Drivers per side	4	4
Frequency response	10 Hz - 40 kHz	-
Impedance	40 Ω	28 Ω
Sensitivity	106 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Design
Weight	8.8 g	-
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
Connector	MMCX	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

FiiO FH5s

The FiiO FH5s is a wired hybrid IEM combining dual dynamic and dual balanced armature drivers to deliver a balanced, detailed sound with solid bass and clear mids. Its semi-open design, adjustable tuning switches, and detachable MMCX cable add versatility, while the lightweight build and comfortable fit make it a strong value at its price point.

Pro:Balanced, neutral-leaning sound signature
Pro:Detailed and engaging midrange
Pro:Adjustable tuning switches for sound customization

Con:No active noise cancellation
Con:Tuning switch effects are subtle
Con:Requires decent amplification due to 40-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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New comparison FiiO FH5s Kiwi Ears KE4