Hidizs MS1-R5 vs Kiwi Ears KE4: which should you buy?

Specs, scores and condensed review verdicts for the Hidizs MS1-R5 vs Kiwi Ears KE4, side by side. Where a product has no HearWiki score yet, not enough reviews have been aggregated to rate it.

Wired IEMs

Hidizs MS1-R5

Not yet scored

$150

Full review data

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.

Hidizs MS1-R5
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

8.6

Value

8.6

Price (USD)

$150

$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

Both shipped in 2024. These are 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.

MS1-R52024
KE42024

Specifications

MS1-R5KE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $150; $200
HearWiki score: Not scored; 84
Released: 2024; 2024
Availability: Discontinued; Still sold new
Driver: 10.2 mm dynamic; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: dynamic; hybrid
Driver configuration: -; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: 10.2 mm; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 1; 4
Frequency response: 20 Hz - 40 kHz; -
Impedance: 32 Ω; 28 Ω
Sensitivity: 109 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Weight: 16 g; -
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
USB-C: No; -
Connector: -; 3.5 mm
Model code: MS1-Galaxy; -

Specification comparison of Hidizs MS1-R5 vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	Hidizs MS1-R5	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$150	$200
HearWiki score	Not scored	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2024	2024
Audio
Driver	10.2 mm dynamic	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	dynamic	hybrid
Driver configuration	-	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	10.2 mm	10 mm
Drivers per side	1	4
Frequency response	20 Hz - 40 kHz	-
Impedance	32 Ω	28 Ω
Sensitivity	109 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Design
Weight	16 g	-
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
USB-C	No	-
Connector	-	3.5 mm
Model code	MS1-Galaxy	-

What reviewers said

Hidizs MS1-R5

The Hidizs MS1-R5 is a wired single-dynamic-driver IEM built around a 10.2mm composite diaphragm and a dual magnetic circuit to keep distortion low. Its tuning follows the H-2019 target curve, delivering a balanced and natural sound signature. With a lightweight 16g build and detachable cable, it's a versatile budget-friendly option for critical listening on the go.

Pro:Balanced, neutral tuning for accurate reproduction
Pro:Compact and featherlight 16g shell for all-day comfort
Pro:Detachable cable adds convenience and upgrade potential

Con:No active noise cancellation for noisy environments
Con:Single dynamic driver may lack the detail of multi-driver setups
Con:Wired-only design limits portability compared to wireless options

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 Hidizs MS1-R5 Kiwi Ears KE4