Kiwi Ears KE4 vs Westone MACH 10: 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 4 of 4 measures.

Kiwi Ears KE4
Westone MACH 10

HearWiki score

Sound

8.6

7.1

Value

8.6

5.6

Price (USD)

$200

$270

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

The Kiwi Ears KE4 is 2 years newer, but it is 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.

KE420242 yr newer
MACH 102022

Specifications

KE4MACH 10

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $200; $270
HearWiki score: 84; 64
Released: 2024; 2022
Availability: Still sold new; Still sold new
Driver: 2DD + 2BA hybrid; balanced armature
Driver type: hybrid; balanced-armature
Driver configuration: 2DD + 2BA; -
Driver size: 10 mm; -
Drivers per side: 4; 1
Frequency response: -; 20 Hz - 18 kHz
Impedance: 28 Ω; 80 Ω
Sensitivity: -; 103 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Controls: -; none
Weight: -; 5.5 g
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
USB-C: -; No
Connector: 3.5 mm; -

Specification comparison of Kiwi Ears KE4 vs Westone MACH 10
Spec	Kiwi Ears KE4	Westone MACH 10
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$200	$270
HearWiki score	84 / 100 Outstanding	64 / 100 Good
Released	2024	2022
Audio
Driver	2DD + 2BA hybrid	balanced armature
Driver type	hybrid	balanced-armature
Driver configuration	2DD + 2BA	-
Driver size	10 mm	-
Drivers per side	4	1
Frequency response	-	20 Hz - 18 kHz
Impedance	28 Ω	80 Ω
Sensitivity	-	103 dB/mW
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Controls	-	none
Design
Weight	-	5.5 g
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
USB-C	-	No
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

Westone MACH 10

The Westone MACH 10 is a single balanced-armature wired IEM that delivers a warm, smooth, and relaxed sound signature, making it a solid entry-level choice for musicians and everyday listeners. Its straightforward tuning and compact, lightweight build offer good balance across the frequency range, though it lacks the technical refinement of pricier models. It's a competent, no-frills monitor that prioritizes musicality over extreme detail.

Pro:Balanced and smooth sound with a warm tilt
Pro:Very lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
Pro:Detachable cable adds durability and upgradeability

Con:Single driver limits technical detail and soundstage
Con:No controls or microphone on the cable
Con:Treble extension is modest, capping at 18 kHz

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 Westone MACH 10