Wired IEMs
Kiwi Ears KE4
84Outstanding
$200
Full review dataKiwi Ears KE4 vs Moondrop Kadenz: 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
Moondrop Kadenz
76Great
$190
Full review dataScore 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
- Moondrop Kadenz
HearWiki score
84
76
Sound
8.6
8.0
Value
8.6
6.2
Price (USD)
$200
$190
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
- Kadenz2024
Specifications
KE4Kadenz
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $200
- $190
- HearWiki score
- 84
- 76
- Released
- 2024
- 2024
- Availability
- Still sold new
- Still sold new
- Driver
- 2DD + 2BA hybrid
- 1DD
- Driver type
- hybrid
- dynamic
- Driver configuration
- 2DD + 2BA
- 1DD
- Driver size
- 10 mm
- 10 mm
- Drivers per side
- 4
- 1
- Impedance
- 28 Ω
- 35 Ω
- Active noise cancelling
- No
- No
- Detachable cable
- Yes
- Yes
- Connector
- 3.5 mm
- 2-pin 0.78 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
Moondrop Kadenz
The Moondrop Kadenz is a wired single-dynamic-driver IEM that builds on the legacy of the KATO with a natural, vocal-forward sound and impressive technical performance for its price. It offers a spacious stage, clean imaging, and a well-balanced tuning, though its lighter bass and somewhat dry character may not suit bass lovers. The premium build and accessories add value, but the shell design and weight can pose comfort issues for some users over extended listening sessions.
- Pro:Natural and transparent midrange with excellent vocal clarity
- Pro:Strong technical performance with good soundstage and imaging
- Pro:Premium build quality and generous accessory package
- Con:Bass impact is limited and lighter in presentation
- Con:Overall balance can sound dry or thin to some ears
- Con:Shell shape and weight may cause discomfort during long sessions
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.