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Kiwi Ears KE4 vs TRUTHEAR NOVA: 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
  • TRUTHEAR NOVA
HearWiki score
84
75
Sound
8.6
7.8
Value
8.6
8.0
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

Kiwi Ears KE4 (2024) against TRUTHEAR NOVA (2023). 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.

  • KE420241 yr newer
  • NOVA2023

Specifications

KE4NOVA
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$200
$160
HearWiki score
84
75
Released
2024
2023
Availability
Still sold new
Still sold new
Driver
2DD + 2BA hybrid
1DD + 4BA hybrid
Driver type
hybrid
hybrid
Driver configuration
2DD + 2BA
1DD + 4BA
Driver size
10 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
4
5
Frequency response
-
8 Hz - 40 kHz
Sound signature
-
warm
Impedance
28 Ω
14.8 Ω
Sensitivity
-
123 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
-
123
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Weight
-
5.6 g
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

TRUTHEAR NOVA

The TRUTHEAR NOVA is a wired hybrid IEM that pairs a 10mm dynamic driver with four balanced armatures to deliver a warm, well-balanced sound with clean vocals and smooth treble. It offers strong resolution and good imaging for its price, though its larger shell and slightly thin lower mids may not suit everyone. This is a capable, feature-rich option for listeners seeking detail without fatigue, provided they can manage the fit.

  • Pro:Excellent resolution and clarity for the price
  • Pro:Smooth, non-fatiguing treble with good extension
  • Pro:Strong imaging and instrument separation
  • Con:Large shell may cause fit issues for smaller ears
  • Con:Lower mids can sound thin, affecting male vocals
  • Con:Occasional upper-mid glare on poorly mastered tracks

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 KE4TRUTHEAR NOVA