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Grado GR8e vs Hisenior Mega5EST: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Hisenior Mega5EST comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Hisenior Mega5EST - Outstanding overall at around $649.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Hisenior Mega5EST leads on 3 of 4 measures.

  • Grado GR8e
  • Hisenior Mega5EST
HearWiki score
42
84
Sound
6.2
9.1
Value
3.0
8.3
Price (USD)
$450
$650

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 Hisenior Mega5EST is 8 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 8 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • GR8e2015
  • Mega5EST20238 yr newer

Specifications

GR8eMega5EST
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$450
$650
HearWiki score
42
84
Released
2015
2023
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
-
1DD + 2BA + 2EST tribrid
Driver type
-
tribrid
Driver configuration
-
1DD + 2BA + 2EST
Driver size
-
10 mm
Drivers per side
1
5
Frequency response
20 Hz - 20 kHz
-
Sound signature
v-shaped
-
Impedance
120 Ω
25 Ω
Sensitivity
118 dB/mW
-
Active noise cancelling
No
-
Weight
9 g
6 g
USB-C
No
-
Connector
-
2-pin 0.78 mm

What reviewers said

Grado GR8e

The Grado GR8e is a lightweight, wired in-ear monitor with a single moving-armature driver and a V-shaped sound signature that adds emphasis to lows and highs while keeping the midrange articulate. Its small, minimal design and solid build make it comfortable for extended listening, though it lacks modern conveniences like active noise cancellation, USB-C, or inline remote controls. The 120-ohm impedance and high sensitivity suggest it pairs best with dedicated audio gear rather than a phone's basic output.

  • Pro:Articulate and detailed sound with clear note separation
  • Pro:Very comfortable and lightweight at just 9 grams
  • Pro:Solid, minimal build quality with durable materials
  • Con:No inline remote or microphone controls
  • Con:120-ohm impedance may require a more powerful source
  • Con:Single driver limits bass extension compared to multi-driver IEMs

Hisenior Mega5EST

The Hisenior Mega5EST is a premium wired tribrid IEM that pairs a dynamic driver, dual balanced armatures, and dual electrostatic drivers for a cohesive, engaging sound. Its tuning leans toward musical enjoyment rather than clinical analysis, wrapped in a lightweight, well-built shell with a generous accessory set. The overall presentation is balanced and easy to listen to, making it a versatile choice for those seeking high-end performance without fatigue.

  • Pro:Engaging, pleasure-oriented tuning that remains balanced and cohesive
  • Pro:Premium build quality with a lightweight, comfortable fit
  • Pro:Includes a robust accessory set and quality cable
  • Con:Shell color may not perfectly match the faceplates aesthetically
  • Con:Tuning favors broad appeal over extreme technical precision
  • Con:No active noise cancellation, limiting isolation to passive means

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 comparisonGrado GR8eHisenior Mega5EST