
Final Make4 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.
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 Make4
- Kiwi Ears KE4
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?
The Kiwi Ears KE4 is 2 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.
- Make42022
- KE420242 yr newer
Specifications
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $110
- $200
- HearWiki score
- 63
- 84
- Released
- 2022
- 2024
- Availability
- Discontinued
- Still sold new
- Driver
- dynamic
- 2DD + 2BA hybrid
- Driver type
- dynamic
- hybrid
- Driver configuration
- -
- 2DD + 2BA
- Driver size
- -
- 10 mm
- Drivers per side
- 1
- 4
- Impedance
- 16 Ω
- 28 Ω
- Sensitivity
- 98 dB/mW
- -
- Active noise cancelling
- No
- No
- Controls
- buttons
- -
- Weight
- 18 g
- -
- Detachable cable
- Yes
- Yes
- USB-C
- No
- -
- Connector
- 2-pin 0.78 mm
- 3.5 mm
- Model code
- Fi-Make04
- -
What reviewers said
Final Make4
The Final Make4 is a wired dynamic IEM designed as a modular tuning kit, letting you adjust its sound via multiple nozzle and vent filters. It offers a clean, detailed stock tuning with broad flexibility for DIY-minded listeners, though its lightweight build and default fit may require careful cable management. Priced around $110, it targets those who prioritize sound customization over a fixed, ready-to-go signature.
- Pro:Extensive tuning flexibility with multiple filters
- Pro:Clean, detailed stock sound with good resolution
- Pro:Lightweight and detachable 2-pin cable
- Con:Default fit can be insecure, especially with cable pull
- Con:No noise cancellation or wireless options
- Con:Requires effort to dial in preferred sound
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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