Kiwi Ears KE4 vs Moondrop MAY: 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

Kiwi Ears KE4

84Outstanding

$200

Full review data

Wired IEMs

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Kiwi Ears KE4 leads on 3 of 5 measures.

Kiwi Ears KE4
Moondrop MAY

HearWiki score

Sound

8.6

7.9

Calls

7.0

Value

8.6

8.2

Price (USD)

$200

$100

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
MAY2024

Specifications

KE4MAY

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $200; $100
HearWiki score: 84; 75
Released: 2024; 2024
Availability: Still sold new; Discontinued
Driver: 2DD + 2BA hybrid; 2-driver hybrid
Driver type: hybrid; hybrid
Driver configuration: 2DD + 2BA; -
Driver size: 10 mm; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 4; 2
Frequency response: -; 7 Hz - 39 kHz
Impedance: 28 Ω; 30 Ω
Sensitivity: -; 105 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms): -; 120
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Weight: -; 4 g
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
USB-C: -; Yes
Connector: 3.5 mm; USB-C

Specification comparison of Kiwi Ears KE4 vs Moondrop MAY
Spec	Kiwi Ears KE4	Moondrop MAY
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$200	$100
HearWiki score	84 / 100 Outstanding	75 / 100 Great
Released	2024	2024
Audio
Driver	2DD + 2BA hybrid	2-driver hybrid
Driver type	hybrid	hybrid
Driver configuration	2DD + 2BA	-
Driver size	10 mm	10 mm
Drivers per side	4	2
Frequency response	-	7 Hz - 39 kHz
Impedance	28 Ω	30 Ω
Sensitivity	-	105 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)	-	120
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Design
Weight	-	4 g
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
USB-C	-	Yes
Connector	3.5 mm	USB-C

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 MAY

The Moondrop MAY is a budget-friendly hybrid IEM with USB-C connectivity and a warm, bass-forward sound that suits relaxed listening. It delivers a smooth, easy-going tuning with good midrange presence, though its technical capabilities and DSP-related quirks hold it back from competing with pricier options.

Pro:Warm, bass-rich sound that's easy to enjoy
Pro:Comfortable fit with lightweight design
Pro:Convenient USB-C connection

Con:Limited technical performance in detail and dynamics
Con:DSP behavior can be inconsistent
Con:Vocal clarity and soundstage are not standout

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 KE4 Moondrop MAY