Final F3100 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.

Final F3100
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

5.8

8.6

Value

3.0

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

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.

F31002021
KE420243 yr newer

Specifications

F3100KE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $130; $200
HearWiki score: 46; 84
Released: 2021; 2024
Availability: Discontinued; Still sold new
Driver: balanced armature; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: balanced-armature; hybrid
Driver configuration: -; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: -; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 1; 4
Frequency response: 10 Hz - 39.8 kHz; -
Impedance: 42 Ω; 28 Ω
Sensitivity: 106 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Weight: 10 g; -
Detachable cable: No; Yes
Connector: -; 3.5 mm
Model code: FI-F3BAL; -

Specification comparison of Final F3100 vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	Final F3100	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$130	$200
HearWiki score	46 / 100 Weak	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2021	2024
Audio
Driver	balanced armature	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	balanced-armature	hybrid
Driver configuration	-	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	-	10 mm
Drivers per side	1	4
Frequency response	10 Hz - 39.8 kHz	-
Impedance	42 Ω	28 Ω
Sensitivity	106 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Design
Weight	10 g	-
Detachable cable	No	Yes
Connector	-	3.5 mm
Model code	FI-F3BAL	-

What reviewers said

Final F3100

The Final F3100 is a tiny, wired single balanced-armature IEM that delivers a clean, neutral, and highly detailed sound with a compact, durable design. It excels at vocal clarity and lively highs, making it a strong pick for pop and rock, though its single-driver setup limits low-end punch and extreme treble air. Weighing just 10 grams, it offers an easy-listening, comfortable fit for critical listeners on a budget.

Pro:Very lightweight and compact build
Pro:Clear, neutral, and detailed sound signature
Pro:Strong vocal clarity and non-fatiguing highs

Con:Limited bass weight and can distort at high volumes
Con:Treble lacks sparkle or extended air
Con:Non-detachable cable reduces long-term flexibility

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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