Hidizs MS5 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.

Hidizs MS5
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

7.5

8.6

Value

4.8

8.6

Price (USD)

$380

$200

Specifications

MS5KE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $380; $200
HearWiki score: 67; 84
Released: 2023; 2024
Availability: Still sold new; Still sold new
Driver: 1DD + 4BA hybrid; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: hybrid; hybrid
Driver configuration: 1DD + 4BA; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: 10 mm; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 5; 4
Frequency response: 20 Hz - 40 kHz; -
Impedance: 5.3 Ω; 28 Ω
Sensitivity: 104 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: -; No
Weight: 13.6 g; -
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
USB-C: No; -
Connector: 3.5 mm; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of Hidizs MS5 vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	Hidizs MS5	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$380	$200
HearWiki score	67 / 100 Good	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2023	2024
Audio
Driver	1DD + 4BA hybrid	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	hybrid	hybrid
Driver configuration	1DD + 4BA	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	10 mm	10 mm
Drivers per side	5	4
Frequency response	20 Hz - 40 kHz	-
Impedance	5.3 Ω	28 Ω
Sensitivity	104 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	-	No
Design
Weight	13.6 g	-
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
USB-C	No	-
Connector	3.5 mm	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

Hidizs MS5

The Hidizs MS5 is a wired hybrid in-ear monitor combining a 10mm dynamic driver with four balanced armatures for a detailed, energetic sound. It delivers potent bass and strong imaging, but its bright treble and lean mids may prove fatiguing for some listeners. The low 5.3-ohm impedance makes it highly efficient, though the larger shell and cable comfort could be a concern for extended wear.

Pro:Powerful and impactful bass response
Pro:Excellent detail retrieval and imaging
Pro:Wide and expansive soundstage

Con:Treble can be aggressive and fatiguing
Con:Mids may sound lean or artificial
Con:Shell size may be large for some ears

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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