
IKKO Obsidian OH10 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.
- IKKO Obsidian OH10
- 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 5 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 5 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.
- Obsidian OH102019
- KE420245 yr newer
Specifications
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $200
- $200
- HearWiki score
- 66
- 84
- Released
- 2019
- 2024
- Availability
- Discontinued
- Still sold new
- Driver
- hybrid
- 2DD + 2BA hybrid
- Driver type
- hybrid
- hybrid
- Driver configuration
- -
- 2DD + 2BA
- Driver size
- 10 mm
- 10 mm
- Drivers per side
- -
- 4
- Impedance
- 18 Ω
- 28 Ω
- Sensitivity
- 106 dB/mW
- -
- Active noise cancelling
- -
- No
- Weight
- 16.2 g
- -
- Detachable cable
- -
- Yes
- Connector
- 2-pin 0.78 mm
- 3.5 mm
What reviewers said
IKKO Obsidian OH10
The IKKO Obsidian OH10 is a hybrid wired IEM that delivers a lively, bass-forward sound tailored for energetic genres. Its low 18-ohm impedance makes it easy to drive, while the sturdy build and engaging tuning offer solid value for those prioritizing musical fun over clinical accuracy.
- Pro:Energetic, bass-forward tuning
- Pro:Easy to drive with low impedance
- Pro:Solid, well-constructed design
- Con:Not for neutrality purists
- Con:Heavier than some competitors
- Con:Limited accessory 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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