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Kiwi Ears KE4 vs Ziigaat Crescent: 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 4 of 4 measures.

  • Kiwi Ears KE4
  • Ziigaat Crescent
HearWiki score
84
76
Sound
8.6
8.2
Value
8.6
8.0
Price (USD)
$200
$280

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

Ziigaat Crescent (2025) against Kiwi Ears KE4 (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
  • Crescent20251 yr newer

Specifications

KE4Crescent
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$200
$280
HearWiki score
84
76
Released
2024
2025
Availability
Still sold new
Sold new
Driver
2DD + 2BA hybrid
2DD + 2BA hybrid
Driver type
hybrid
hybrid
Driver configuration
2DD + 2BA
2DD + 2BA
Driver size
10 mm
10 mm
Drivers per side
4
4
Impedance
28 Ω
12 Ω
Active noise cancelling
No
-
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

Ziigaat Crescent

The Ziigaat Crescent is a wired hybrid IEM with a dual-dynamic and dual-balanced armature driver setup, delivering a warm, musical, and engaging sound signature. It offers punchy bass, convincing vocals, and a wide soundstage, making it a versatile choice for those who prioritize enjoyment over clinical neutrality. While its technical performance and comfort are praised, the stock cable and bulky case are noted as minor drawbacks for its price point.

  • Pro:Punchy, engaging bass response
  • Pro:Convincing and natural vocal reproduction
  • Pro:Wide, holographic soundstage
  • Con:Stock cable feels underwhelming for the price
  • Con:Bulky included case
  • Con:Treble can become hot at higher volumes

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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