By Charlotte HarlowAs an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This page may contain affiliate links.
A usb-c to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter lets you plug standard wired headphones into phones, tablets and laptops that no longer have a traditional audio port. Most of the choice comes down to whether you need simple passthrough audio, a built-in DAC for cleaner sound, or inline volume and microphone controls for calls. The picks below were chosen by reviewing manufacturer specifications, brand reputation and common owner feedback patterns. None of them were tested in a lab for this article, so check the listing details before you buy.
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Apple USB-C to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter (single port listing) | Apple devices and simple listening | Compact single-port design for music and podcasts |
| USB C To Headphone Jack Adapter 2-Pack (iPhone 17 Pro Max and Galaxy S24 Ultra listing) | Households with several devices | Two adapters in one pack |
| Multipack USBC to AUX Dongle 20-Pack HiFi Type C to AUX | Offices, classrooms and spare kits | Bulk quantity for replacements |
| Htrenc Type C Aux Audio Dongle Cable 2-Pack | Users with a mix of iPhone and Android phones | Broad device compatibility |
| JSAUX USB C to 3.5mm AUX Audio Adapter | Calls and volume control on the go | Built-in DAC with CTIA microphone and volume controls |
| JXMOX USB Type C to 3.5mm Female Headphone Jack Adapter | Wide mix of phones, tablets and laptops | Female port that works with most 3.5 mm plugs |
| USB C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter 2-Pack (Aux to USB C HiFi listing) | Gift or travel backup | Two-pack with HiFi-labeled audio path |
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
This is a good fit for iPhone, iPad and Mac owners who want a straightforward adapter for music, podcasts and video without extra features. It is the most recognizable option in this list, which makes it easy to match with your existing setup.
Key specs
- Single USB-C connector on one end
- Standard 3.5 mm headphone jack on the other end
- Single-port design for music and podcast listening
Pros
- Recognized brand with a familiar design
- Compact and easy to carry in a pocket
- Works without installing apps or drivers
Cons
- Single unit means no spare for the price of a pack
- Does not add inline controls for calls
USB C To Headphone Jack Adapter For iPhone and Galaxy (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)
This suits households where several people share devices, or anyone who wants a spare adapter in a bag or desk drawer. The two-pack format makes it simple to keep one connected and one ready.
Key specs
- Two adapters included
- USB-C plug on one end, 3.5 mm audio jack on the other
- Listed compatibility with recent iPhone and Galaxy models
Pros
- Two units give you a built-in backup
- Broad device list in the product name
- Simple plug-and-play setup
Cons
- Compatibility claims should be checked against your exact model
- No built-in volume or microphone controls
Multipack USBC to AUX Dongle 20-Pack HiFi Type C to AUX
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
This is best for offices, classrooms, gyms or event staff who need many adapters on hand. It also works well as a stock of replacements, since small dongles are easy to lose.
Key specs
- 20 adapters in one multipack
- USB-C to 3.5 mm design
- White finish
Pros
- Very low cost per unit for bulk needs
- Good for replacing lost adapters
- Useful for shared equipment
Cons
- Quality can vary across large bulk packs, according to some owner feedback
- Not designed with inline controls
Htrenc Type C Aux Audio Dongle Cable 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
This works for people who switch between iPhone and Android phones and want one adapter style across both. The two-pack gives you one for each device or a spare.
Key specs
- Two adapters in the pack
- USB Type-C connector
- 3.5 mm female-to-plug audio path
Pros
- Works across many phone brands
- Two units for two devices
- Straightforward design
Cons
- Brand is less widely known than major manufacturers
- No DAC or volume control listed
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
This is the pick for anyone who takes calls with wired headphones or wants volume control at the adapter. Its listing describes a built-in DAC, which can matter for cleaner output on some setups.
Key specs
- Built-in DAC listed at 16-bit/48 kHz
- CTIA microphone and volume controls
- USB-C to 3.5 mm design
Pros
- Inline volume and microphone support for calls
- Built-in DAC rather than passthrough only
- Works with a range of phones listed in the title
Cons
- Inline controls only work with CTIA-compatible headsets
- Slightly larger than a plain passthrough dongle
JXMOX USB Type C to 3.5mm Female Headphone Jack Adapter
JXMOX USB Type C to 3.5mm Female Headphone Jack Adapter, USB C to Aux Audio Dongle Cable Cord for iPhone Duo/18 17 16 15 Pro Max Air, Samsung Galaxy S26 S25 S24 S23 S22, Pixel 10 9, iPad Pro, MacBook
This suits users who own a mix of phones, tablets and laptops and want one adapter type across all of them. The female port design lets you plug in standard 3.5 mm cables you already own.
Key specs
- 3.5 mm female port accepts standard headphone plugs
- USB Type-C connector
- Listed for a wide range of phones, tablets and laptops
Pros
- Broad device compatibility in the listing
- Works with your existing headphone cables
- Simple adapter design
Cons
- Long compatibility list means you should confirm your model
- No inline controls
USB C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack 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
This is a practical choice for travel kits, gifts or keeping a backup in your bag. The two-pack format covers both your daily adapter and a spare.
Key specs
- Two adapters in the pack
- USB-C to 3.5 mm audio path
- White finish
Pros
- Two units for travel backup
- Compact and lightweight
- Simple to use with most listed devices
Cons
- Limited detail on audio processing in the listing
- No built-in controls
Buying Guide
Choosing a usb-c to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter gets easier once you know what matters for your devices and listening habits. Start with the features below, then match them to how you use your headphones.
Selection criteria
- Device compatibility: Confirm your phone, tablet or laptop supports audio over USB-C. Some older USB-C devices do not pass analog audio through the port.
- Passthrough vs. built-in DAC: A passthrough adapter sends the signal straight through. A built-in DAC converts digital audio to analog inside the adapter, which can help on devices with weaker output.
- Inline controls: If you take calls, look for CTIA-compatible microphone and volume support.
- Build quality: Check strain relief, connector fit and whether the adapter feels secure in the port.
Important features
- A female 3.5 mm port lets you reuse your current headphone cables.
- A male 3.5 mm plug is simpler but ties you to one cable type.
- A pack of two or more gives you a backup, which many owners find useful for travel.
Specs to check
- Connector type: USB-C on one end, 3.5 mm on the other
- Sample rate and bit depth, if listed (for example, 16-bit/48 kHz)
- Whether the listing mentions CTIA or OMTP microphone standards
Choosing by need
- Music and podcasts on one device: A single passthrough adapter is usually enough.
- Frequent calls: Choose a model with CTIA microphone and volume controls.
- Several people or devices: A multipack keeps spares on hand.
- Travel: A two-pack with a compact body works well in a pouch.
Things to watch out for
- Do not assume every USB-C device outputs audio. Check your device’s specifications first.
- Inline controls may not work with every headset.
- Bulk packs can vary in build quality, so read recent owner feedback before ordering large quantities.
- Do not leave adapters plugged in while charging a phone on a fast charger unless the listing says it is safe for that use.
FAQ
Does a usb-c to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter work with every phone?
Most phones with a USB-C port that supports analog audio will work. Some devices, particularly certain older USB-C models, do not output audio through the port. Check your device manufacturer’s specifications before buying.
What is the difference between a passthrough adapter and one with a DAC?
A passthrough adapter sends the digital signal from your device to a simple analog output. An adapter with a built-in DAC converts the digital audio to analog inside the adapter, which can help on devices with limited output.
Will the adapter let me take calls with wired headphones?
Only if it supports microphone input. Look for CTIA-compatible microphone and volume controls, and confirm that your headset uses the CTIA standard.
Can I charge my phone while using the adapter?
Some adapters include a USB-C pass-through charging port and some do not. Check the listing. If charging is not mentioned, assume it is not supported.
Why is my adapter producing no sound?
Start by checking that the adapter is fully seated in the port, then confirm your device’s audio output settings. Try a different headphone cable to rule out a faulty plug.
Is a 2-pack or multipack worth it?
For most users, a two-pack covers a daily adapter and a spare. Larger multipacks make sense for offices, classrooms or shared equipment where adapters get lost or damaged.
Will the adapter affect sound quality?
Sound quality depends on the adapter’s audio path and your headphones. Adapters with a built-in DAC may offer more consistent output on some devices, but results vary. If you have concerns about audio performance, consider a dedicated DAC/amp.
Conclusion
For simple music and podcast listening on one device, the Apple USB-C to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter is a recognizable and straightforward choice. Households with several devices will find the two-pack options more practical, while offices and shared spaces benefit from the 20-pack multipack. If you take calls, the JSAUX USB C to 3.5mm AUX Audio Adapter stands out for its listed microphone and volume controls. Travelers may prefer a compact two-pack, and users with a mix of phones should look at the JXMOX female-port design for broad compatibility. Confirm that your device supports analog audio over USB-C before you buy, and consult your device manufacturer if you are unsure.
Related reading
- Headphone Adapters Explained: 3.5 mm, 6.3 mm and USB-C
- Top 10 Portable USB DAC Headphone Amps for Travel and Desk Use
- Ifi GO Link USB Amp DAC: Setup, Uses and Tips for Headphone Users
- 5 Best Headphone Amp USB DAC Picks for Clear Sound (2026)
About Charlotte Harlow
Charlotte covers headphone comfort & accessories + gaming headsets, comparing specs, features and long-term owner feedback to help readers choose with confidence.
