Kiwi Ears Halcyon 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.

Kiwi Ears Halcyon
Kiwi Ears KE4

HearWiki score

Sound

8.1

8.6

Value

7.8

8.6

Price (USD)

$260

$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

The Kiwi Ears Halcyon is 2 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.

Halcyon20262 yr newer
KE42024

Specifications

HalcyonKE4

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $260; $200
HearWiki score: 78; 84
Released: 2026; 2024
Availability: Sold new; Still sold new
Driver: 1DD + 3BA tribrid; 2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type: tribrid; hybrid
Driver configuration: 1DD + 3BA; 2DD + 2BA
Driver size: 10 mm; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 4; 4
Impedance: 29 Ω; 28 Ω
Sensitivity: 109 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: -; No
Weight: 6 g; -
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
Connector: 2-pin 0.78 mm; 3.5 mm

Specification comparison of Kiwi Ears Halcyon vs Kiwi Ears KE4
Spec	Kiwi Ears Halcyon	Kiwi Ears KE4
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$260	$200
HearWiki score	78 / 100 Great	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2026	2024
Audio
Driver	1DD + 3BA tribrid	2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type	tribrid	hybrid
Driver configuration	1DD + 3BA	2DD + 2BA
Driver size	10 mm	10 mm
Drivers per side	4	4
Impedance	29 Ω	28 Ω
Sensitivity	109 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	-	No
Design
Weight	6 g	-
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
Connector	2-pin 0.78 mm	3.5 mm

What reviewers said

Kiwi Ears Halcyon

The Kiwi Ears Halcyon is a wired tribrid IEM that blends a dynamic driver with three balanced armatures to deliver a technically capable, bass-forward sound with crisp highs. Its tuning leans towards a relaxed upper-midrange while offering strong sub-bass impact and a polished treble, making it a solid pick for listeners seeking a lively yet controlled signature. With a lightweight build and detachable cable, it stands out as a well-executed option in its price range for those wanting something beyond a purely neutral presentation.

Pro:Strong sub-bass with good impact
Pro:Extended and controlled treble
Pro:Clean layering and technical detail

Con:Lower mids can feel slightly recessed
Con:Vocal presence may lack some weight
Con:Tuning is not groundbreaking for the price

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 Kiwi Ears Halcyon Kiwi Ears KE4