Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant vs Kiwi Ears KE4: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Kiwi Ears KE4 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 81. 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.

Neither pulls ahead overall - they trade wins across the measures.

Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

7.9

8.6

Value

8.8

8.6

Price (USD)

$100

$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

Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant (2025) against Kiwi Ears KE4 (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.

x Z Reviews Defiant20251 yr newer
KE42024

Specifications

x Z Reviews DefiantKE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $100; $200
HearWiki score: 79; 81
Released: 2025; 2024
Availability: Sold new; Discontinued
Driver: 1DD + 3BA hybrid; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: hybrid; hybrid
Driver configuration: 1DD + 3BA; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: 10 mm; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 4; 4
Impedance: 32 Ω; 28 Ω
Active noise cancelling: -; No
Weight: 6.1 g; -
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
Connector: 2-pin 0.78 mm; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$100	$200
HearWiki score	79 / 100 Great	81 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2025	2024
Audio
Driver	1DD + 3BA hybrid	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	hybrid	hybrid
Driver configuration	1DD + 3BA	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	10 mm	10 mm
Drivers per side	4	4
Impedance	32 Ω	28 Ω
Features
Active noise cancelling	-	No
Design
Weight	6.1 g	-
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
Connector	2-pin 0.78 mm	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant

The Defiant is a hybrid in-ear monitor that pairs a single dynamic driver with three balanced armatures to deliver a lively, energetic sound profile that belies its modest price point. It offers a robust feature set, including a detachable cable and lightweight build, making it a compelling pick for budget-conscious listeners who prioritize fun and engaging audio. Overall, it stands out as a strong value proposition around the $100 mark, with tuning and accessories that punch above their weight.

Pro:Energetic and engaging tuning for the price
Pro:Hybrid driver array offers good detail separation
Pro:Lightweight and comfortable build

Con:No noise cancellation for those seeking isolation
Con:Bass may be too forward for neutral purists
Con:Stock cable could feel basic to some users

Kiwi Ears KE4

The Kiwi Ears KE4 is a hybrid IEM that delivers a balanced, smooth sound signature with a touch of added bass and treble sparkle, making it a versatile choice for many genres. It offers solid clarity and a comfortable fit, though its tuning leans relaxed rather than aggressive, and it lacks the ultimate resolving power of pricier models. Overall, it's a polished performer around the $200 mark that suits listeners who prefer a neutral yet slightly warm presentation.

Pro:Well-balanced tuning with a relaxing character
Pro:Rich lower mids and airy treble
Pro:Comfortable fit for long sessions

Con:Sub-bass can feel a bit overpowering at times
Con:Limited dynamics and resolving power compared to top-tier IEMs
Con:Accessories are minimal

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 comparison Juzear x Z Reviews Defiant Kiwi Ears KE4