Claire WhitakerBy Claire Whitaker

Updated November 2026

A samsung galaxy s23 headphone adapter lets you plug standard 3.5 mm wired headphones into the phone’s USB-C port. The Galaxy S23 has no headphone jack, so an adapter is the simplest way to keep using wired earbuds or an over-ear pair. This guide covers how to check compatibility, connect the adapter, and get clear audio and working calls.

Check Whether Your Adapter Is Compatible

The S23 uses USB-C, so you need an adapter with a USB-C plug on one end and a 3.5 mm jack on the other. Many USB-C adapters are designed for analog audio, but some are digital-only and will not work with a standard headset. Look for packaging that says the adapter supports analog audio, and confirm it includes a microphone line if you plan to take calls.

Shopping for one? See our guide: Samsung S23 Ultra Headphone Jack Adapter Review: Features and Performance.

Also check whether your headphones have an inline mic. Four-ring (TRRS) plugs carry a mic signal, while three-ring (TRS) plugs do not. A TRS headset will play music through the adapter but will not send your voice on calls.

Connect the Adapter and Test Playback

  1. Plug the adapter firmly into the S23’s USB-C port. Push until it seats fully, since a loose connection causes crackling.
  2. Plug your headphones into the adapter’s 3.5 mm port and push until you feel a click.
  3. Open a music app and play a track. Turn the volume to about half and raise it gradually.
  4. If sound comes from the phone speaker instead, unplug and reconnect. Then check that the headphones are fully seated.

Set Up Calls and Audio Quality

If your headset has a mic, make a test call to a friend or use a voice memo app. The S23 should route audio to the headphones automatically. If your voice does not come through, check the adapter’s mic support first, since most failures trace back to a three-ring headset. For a deeper look, Samsung Usb Type-c to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter: A Practical Guide (2026) covers this in detail.

For sound quality, a basic passive adapter passes the phone’s internal audio without changes. Some owners add a DAC/amp adapter to drive higher-impedance headphones more fully, but this is optional for most earbuds.

Quick Troubleshooting Checklist

  • Confirm the adapter is analog, not digital-only.
  • Reseat both the USB-C and 3.5 mm connections.
  • Try a different headset to rule out a faulty cable.
  • Restart the phone if the adapter was connected before the phone booted.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Assuming any USB-C adapter will work. Digital-only models often produce silence.
  • Using a three-ring headset and expecting the mic to work on calls.
  • Leaving the adapter plugged in while charging with a cable that blocks the port. Some adapters pass charging through, but many do not.
  • Pulling the headphone cable instead of the plug when disconnecting, which can loosen the jack over time.

A reliable USB-C to 3.5 mm adapter from a known audio brand reduces the chance of crackling and mic issues. View on Amazon

If you want to charge while listening, a USB-C adapter with a pass-through port keeps both connections available. View on Amazon

FAQ

Does the Samsung Galaxy S23 support a headphone adapter?

Yes. The S23 has no 3.5 mm jack, but a USB-C to 3.5 mm analog adapter works with standard wired headphones.

Why does my headset work for music but not calls?

Your headset most likely has a three-ring plug without a microphone line. Use a four-ring headset or an adapter with a mic-compatible design.

Can I charge the phone and listen at the same time?

Only with an adapter that includes a USB-C charging pass-through port. Standard adapters usually occupy the port.

Conclusion

Choose an analog adapter, confirm your headset’s plug type, and seat both connections fully. With those steps, your samsung galaxy s23 headphone adapter setup should deliver steady playback and working calls. For more options, see Samsung S23 Headphone Jack Adapter: Setup Steps and Picks (2026).

Ready to choose one?

Claire Whitaker

About Claire Whitaker

Claire Whitaker is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our headphone comfort & accessories + gaming headsets guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.