Wired IEMs
Kiwi Ears KE4
84Outstanding
$200
Full review dataKiwi Ears KE4 vs TinHifi T5S: 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
TinHifi T5S
69Good
$130
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
- TinHifi T5S
HearWiki score
84
69
Sound
8.6
7.0
Value
8.6
5.5
Price (USD)
$200
$130
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
- T5S2024
Specifications
KE4T5S
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $200
- $130
- HearWiki score
- 84
- 69
- Released
- 2024
- 2024
- Availability
- Still sold new
- Still sold new
- Driver
- 2DD + 2BA hybrid
- dynamic
- Driver type
- hybrid
- dynamic
- Driver configuration
- 2DD + 2BA
- -
- Driver size
- 10 mm
- -
- Drivers per side
- 4
- -
- Impedance
- 28 Ω
- -
- Active noise cancelling
- No
- -
- Detachable cable
- 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
TinHifi T5S
The TinHifi T5S is a wired in-ear monitor focused on high-fidelity audio, featuring a next-generation dynamic driver with an ultra-linear diaphragm for accurate sound reproduction. It connects via a standard 2-pin 0.78mm connector, making it a straightforward choice for audiophiles seeking a pure, uncomplicated listening experience without active noise cancellation.
- Pro:Accurate, linear sound reproduction
- Pro:Dynamic driver delivers punchy bass and clear highs
- Pro:Removable 2-pin cable for easy upgrades or replacement
- Con:No active noise cancellation, so ambient noise may intrude
- Con:Wired only, requiring a device with a headphone jack or adapter
- Con:Sound signature may be too neutral for bass-heavy listeners
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.