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Kiwi Ears KE4 vs TFZ FORCE 5: which should you buy?

Specs, scores and condensed review verdicts for the Kiwi Ears KE4 vs TFZ FORCE 5, side by side. Where a product has no HearWiki score yet, not enough reviews have been aggregated to rate it.

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
  • TFZ FORCE 5
HearWiki score
84
-
Sound
8.6
-
Value
8.6
-
Price (USD)
$200
$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

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
  • FORCE 52024

Specifications

KE4FORCE 5
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$200
$200
HearWiki score
84
Not scored
Released
2024
2024
Availability
Still sold new
Discontinued
Driver
2DD + 2BA hybrid
-
Driver type
hybrid
-
Driver configuration
2DD + 2BA
-
Driver size
10 mm
-
Drivers per side
4
-
Impedance
28 Ω
16 Ω
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Detachable cable
Yes
-
Connector
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

TFZ FORCE 5

The TFZ FORCE 5 is a wired in-ear monitor built around an 11.4mm dual-magnet, dual-cavity Tesla magnetic driver for high-resolution sound. It comes with a standard 3.5mm plug and a detachable 0.78mm two-pin cable, offering a straightforward, audiophile-focused package at a mid-range price. With a low 16-ohm impedance, it's easy to drive from most sources.

  • Pro:High-resolution audio performance
  • Pro:Detachable 0.78mm two-pin cable
  • Pro:Low impedance for easy driving
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Wired only, no wireless option
  • Con:Limited accessory bundle

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 KE4TFZ FORCE 5