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Kiwi Ears KE4 vs KZ Sonata: 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.

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.

  • Kiwi Ears KE4
  • KZ Sonata
HearWiki score
84
67
Sound
8.6
7.1
Value
8.6
5.9
Price (USD)
$200
$160

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.

  • KE42024
  • Sonata2024

Specifications

KE4Sonata
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$200
$160
HearWiki score
84
67
Released
2024
2024
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
2DD + 2BA hybrid
14× balanced armature
Driver type
hybrid
balanced-armature
Driver configuration
2DD + 2BA
-
Driver size
10 mm
-
Drivers per side
4
14
Frequency response
-
20 Hz - 40 kHz
Impedance
28 Ω
22 Ω
Sensitivity
-
113 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
-
none
Detachable cable
Yes
-
Connector
3.5 mm
3.5 mm

What reviewers said

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

KZ Sonata

The KZ Sonata is a wired, all-balanced-armature IEM that aims for technical precision and a broad soundstage, with clear mids and notable bass depth for its driver configuration. Its tuning leans toward a mid-centric profile that can sound dark or occasionally bright depending on ear tip choice, making it a genre-dependent pick rather than a universal all-rounder. It is easy to drive and performs well on detail, but its large shell and fit may not suit everyone.

  • Pro:Excellent detail retrieval and resolving mids
  • Pro:Wide, immersive soundstage for an all-BA design
  • Pro:Punchy, controlled bass for a balanced-armature set
  • Con:Large shell may cause fit issues for smaller ears
  • Con:Bass impact is lighter than typical V-shaped tunings
  • Con:Treble can sound dark or fatiguing depending on ear tips

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 comparisonKiwi Ears KE4KZ Sonata