By Charlotte HarlowAs an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This page may contain affiliate links.
A headphone adapter for USB C lets you plug a standard 3.5 mm wired headset into a phone, tablet or laptop that has no headphone jack. Many current Android phones, iPads and MacBooks only expose a USB-C port, so the adapter has to convert a digital signal and send it to a 3.5 mm plug. The right choice depends on whether you need a simple passthrough, a charging port built in, microphone and volume controls, or a dedicated DAC for cleaner sound. In this list we weigh each option against four criteria: how it handles audio conversion, what device compatibility is stated, build and cable quality, and what owners commonly report about call and volume behavior. We did not run lab measurements on these units, so the comparison is based on listed specifications, brand reputation and recurring owner feedback patterns.
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Apple USB-C to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter (single-port listing) | iPhone and iPad owners who want a simple, familiar adapter | Single USB-C plug with 3.5 mm output |
| USB C To Headphone Jack Adapter for iPhone 17 Pro Max and Galaxy S24 (2 Pack) | Households with mixed iPhone and Android devices | Two-pack for spares or sharing |
| Htrenc Type C Aux Audio Dongle (2 Pack) | Everyday listening on phones with a USB-C port | Two-pack with broad phone compatibility |
| USB C to 3.5mm Audio Adapter 2 Pack, Aux to USB C HiFi | Users who want HiFi-labeled conversion on tablets too | Covers phones, tablets and laptops |
| Multipack USBC to AUX Dongle 20-Pack | Offices, schools and fleet or classroom use | 20 units in one pack |
| USB C to 3.5mm Headphone and Charger Adapter (2-in-1) | Users who need to listen and charge at the same time | Built-in USB-C PD charging pass-through |
| JSAUX USB C to 3.5mm AUX Audio Adapter | Calls and volume control on the cable | Smart DAC with CTIA mic and volume controls |
| JXMOX USB C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter (2-Pack) | Hi-Fi style DAC cable buyers wanting two units | DAC-style conversion in a two-pack |
Apple USB-C to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter
1 USB Port, Music, Podcasts, Travel Apple USB-C to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter
Who it is for: Owners of recent iPhones and iPads who want a no-frills adapter from a well-known brand and a single device-friendly plug.
Key specs:
- USB-C plug on one end, 3.5 mm headphone jack on the other
- Single-port design for listening and general music or podcast use
Pros:
- Brand recognition and straightforward setup with Apple devices
- Compact body that fits easily in a bag or pocket
- Works as a passthrough, so no driver install is needed
Cons:
- Single-port design means no charging pass-through
- Owners sometimes note it is less convenient to replace than a multi-pack
USB C To Headphone Jack Adapter for iPhone 17 Pro Max and Galaxy S24 (2 Pack)
USB C To Headphone Jack Adapter For iphone 17 Pro Max/17 Pro, 16/15 Pro Max, 16/15 Pro, Galaxy S24/S23/S22 Ultra USB C to 3.5mm Audio Headphone Adapte (2 Pack)
Who it is for: Households where iPhone and Samsung Galaxy phones both need wired headphone support and a spare is helpful.
Key specs:
- USB-C to 3.5 mm audio adapter, sold as a 2-pack
- Listed compatibility with recent iPhone Pro Max models and Galaxy S-series Ultra models
Pros:
- Two units means one can stay in a car or bag
- Cross-brand compatibility listed in the product name
- Simple plug-and-play use for calls and music
Cons:
- Compatibility lists are long, so confirm your exact model before buying
- Some owners report that not every phone case allows a snug fit
Htrenc Type C Aux Audio Dongle Cable Cord (2 Pack)
Type C Aux Audio Dongle Cable Cord for iPhone18/iPhone17/iPhone 16/16 Pro/15/15 Pro/Pro Max/Plus Htrenc USB C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter, 2 Pack
Who it is for: Everyday listeners with a USB-C phone who want a basic, affordable-to-replace adapter with a spare.
Key specs:
- USB-C to 3.5 mm dongle, 2-pack
- Listed for iPhone 15 through newer iPhone models and several Pro variants
Pros:
- Good value as a spare set for a car or desk
- Short, direct design with a standard 3.5 mm output
- Works with most standard wired headphones
Cons:
- Brand is less established than the major phone makers
- No built-in volume or call controls
USB C to 3.5mm Audio Adapter 2 Pack, Aux to USB C HiFi
2 Pack USB C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter, Aux to USB C HiFi Compatible for iPhone Duo/18 Pro Max/17/16/15,Type C Aux Audio Dongle Cable Cord for iPad,Samsung Galaxy S26/S25/24/S23,Pixel -White
Who it is for: Users with phones, tablets and laptops who want a HiFi-labeled adapter and a spare for each.
Key specs:
- USB-C to 3.5 mm audio adapter, white finish, sold as a 2-pack
- Listed for iPhone, iPad and recent Samsung Galaxy and Pixel models
Pros:
- Broad device list covers phones and tablets
- Two-pack keeps a spare in a bag or desk drawer
- Clean white finish that matches many device colors
Cons:
- “HiFi” labeling does not replace a true external DAC for sound quality
- Owners sometimes report minor differences in volume between units
Multipack USBC to AUX Dongle 20-Pack
Multipack USBC to AUX Dongle for iPhone 18/ 17/16/15 Pro/Max, Samsung Galaxy S25/S24/S23 Ultra, iPad Pro, MacBook,Pixel XL USB C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter 20-Pack, HiFi Type C to AUX, White
Who it is for: Offices, classrooms and shared device setups that need many adapters on hand at once.
Key specs:
- USB-C to 3.5 mm adapter, 20-pack
- Listed for recent iPhone Pro models, Galaxy Ultra phones, iPad Pro and MacBook
Pros:
- Large quantity suits shared or institutional use
- Covers phones, tablets and laptops in one listing
- Easy to distribute and replace as units wear out
Cons:
- Twenty units is more than most individual users need
- Quality may vary between units in a bulk pack, based on general owner feedback patterns
USB C to 3.5mm Headphone and Charger Adapter (2-in-1)
USB C to 3.5mm Headphone and Charger Adapter,2 in-1 USB C PD 3.0 Charging Port to Aux Audio Jack and Fast Charging Dongle Cable Cord for iPhone 18 Pro/Pro Max/Duo/17/16/15, Galaxy S25/S24/S23/S22/S21
Who it is for: Phone users who want to charge and listen through the same port while on the move.
Key specs:
- USB-C PD charging pass-through combined with a 3.5 mm audio jack
- Listed for recent iPhone Pro, Duo and Galaxy S-series models
Pros:
- Lets you charge the phone while listening
- Useful for long commutes, flights and desk setups
- One port does two jobs, reducing cable clutter
Cons:
- Charging speed depends on the charger and phone, not only the adapter
- Bulkier than a plain audio dongle
JSAUX USB C to 3.5mm AUX Audio Adapter
Smart DAC gives clear 16Bit/48kHz audio; CTIA mic and volume controls for iPhone 18/17/16/15, for Galaxy S26/S25/S24 JSAUX USB C to 3.5mm AUX Audio Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max, iPhone Duo
Who it is for: Users who take calls on wired headphones and want mic and volume controls handled by the adapter.
Key specs:
- Built-in DAC for cleaner conversion than a basic passthrough, per the listing
- CTIA microphone and volume controls, listed for iPhone and Galaxy models
Pros:
- Inline controls for calls and volume without touching the phone
- Built-in DAC is a step up from a basic passthrough dongle
- Compatibility with CTIA headsets is clearly stated
Cons:
- Works best with headsets that use the CTIA wiring standard
- Inline controls add a small amount of bulk to the cable
JXMOX USB C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter (2-Pack)
Hi-Fi DAC Cable for iPhone Duo 18 17 Air 16 15 Pro Max , Samsung Galaxy S26 S25 S24 Ultra, Pixel 11 10 9, iPad Pro, MacBook JXMOX USB C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter, 2-Pack Type-C Aux Audio Dongle
Who it is for: Listeners who want a DAC-style cable for better sound than a basic passthrough, with a spare included.
Key specs:
- USB-C to 3.5 mm DAC-style adapter, 2-pack
- Listed for recent iPhone, Galaxy, Pixel, iPad Pro and MacBook models
Pros:
- DAC-style conversion aimed at cleaner audio
- Wide device list in one listing
- Two units keep a backup handy
Cons:
- Audible differences from a dedicated external DAC will vary by headphone
- Brand is less widely known than the major phone makers
Buying Guide
Choosing a headphone adapter for USB C is simpler once you know which features matter for your devices and listening habits. Start with the connector side. USB-C is a standard port, but phones and laptops differ in how they handle audio over USB-C, and some adapters only work with specific models. Check the compatibility list in the product name or listing before you buy, and confirm your device model, not just its brand.
Selection criteria
- Device compatibility: Match the adapter to your phone, tablet or laptop model.
- Audio path: A basic passthrough dongle is simplest. A DAC-style adapter converts the signal internally and may sound cleaner with some headphones.
- Controls: Inline volume and microphone controls (CTIA wiring) help during calls.
- Charging: Some models pass USB-C power through so you can charge while listening.
- Build: Strain relief at the plugs and a compact body reduce wear at the connection point.
Important features
Look for a clearly stated output connector (standard 3.5 mm), a labeled audio standard, and a description of microphone wiring if you take calls. If you plan to charge, check that the adapter lists power delivery pass-through and that your charger supplies enough wattage.
Specs to check
- Output jack type and size (3.5 mm is the common headphone size)
- Microphone standard (CTIA or OMTP) if you need call controls
- Whether the unit includes a DAC or is a passthrough
- Charging pass-through rating, if relevant
- Number of units in the pack
Choosing by need
- Simple music and podcasts: A single-port adapter or a two-pack dongle is enough.
- Calls on the go: Choose a model with CTIA mic and volume controls.
- Charging and listening: Pick a 2-in-1 adapter with power delivery pass-through.
- Households or offices: A multipack covers several people or devices.
- Better sound quality: Look for a DAC-style adapter, and set expectations based on your headphones.
Things to watch out for
- Compatibility lists differ by model year, so check your exact device.
- Adapters can add weight and strain to the port, so avoid heavy hanging cables.
- Bulk packs may vary slightly between units.
- Charging speed depends on the charger and phone, not only the adapter.
For more background on how these devices convert audio, see Headphone Adapters Explained: 3.5 mm, 6.3 mm and USB-C. If you are weighing a dedicated amp, Portable USB DAC Amp Guide: How to Choose the Right One (7 Steps) and Headphone DAC vs Amp (2026): Which Is Better for Your Setup? cover the trade-offs. Cable wear is worth managing too, so Headphone Cable Care: Preventing Damage and Crackle is a useful read.
FAQ
Do all USB-C phones support a headphone adapter for USB C?
Most USB-C phones and tablets can use a USB-C to 3.5 mm adapter, but support depends on the device’s audio handling. Check the adapter’s listed compatibility against your exact model before buying.
What is the difference between a passthrough adapter and a DAC adapter?
A passthrough adapter routes the signal to the 3.5 mm jack with minimal processing. A DAC adapter contains a digital-to-analog converter that handles the conversion internally. DAC designs may sound cleaner with some headphones, though results vary.
Will the adapter work with my microphone for calls?
Only if the adapter supports microphone wiring and your headset uses a matching standard. CTIA is the most common standard for phones. Headsets with the other standard may need a separate adapter.
Can I charge my phone while using a headphone adapter?
Yes, if the adapter is a 2-in-1 model with power delivery pass-through. Charging speed depends on the adapter, charger and phone together.
Do I need a driver to use these adapters?
Most USB-C to 3.5 mm adapters are plug-and-play and need no driver. Laptops may need a short recognition step the first time you connect.
Is a more expensive adapter always better?
Not necessarily. Compatibility, cable build and whether the adapter matches your use case matter more than the highest-end option. A simple adapter often suits casual listening well.
How do I know if the adapter is damaged?
Signs include crackling audio, intermittent sound, or a loose connection at either plug. Replacing the adapter is usually simpler than repairing it. For cable care tips, see Replacement Headphone Cables: Connectors and Compatibility.
Conclusion
A headphone adapter for USB C is a small purchase that makes a big difference if your phone or laptop has no headphone jack. For simple listening, a single-port Apple adapter or a two-pack dongle covers the basics. If you take calls on the go, choose a model with CTIA microphone and volume controls. If you want to charge while you listen, pick the 2-in-1 charger adapter. Households and offices needing many units will find the 20-pack most practical, and listeners who want a DAC-style conversion may prefer the JSAUX or JXMOX options. Check compatibility against your exact device first, and you will get a reliable connection for everyday use.
About Charlotte Harlow
Charlotte covers headphone comfort & accessories + gaming headsets, comparing specs, features and long-term owner feedback to help readers choose with confidence.
