The removal of the headphone jack from the best iPhones was not welcomed by many. DongleGate has continued to irritate people which is why you need one of the best headphone jack adapters. If you want to plug a pair of wired headphones into your iPhone, this is the only way. You'll need a headphone jack adapter that turns the Lightning port on the bottom of your iPhone into a 3.5mm jack connector.
There are plenty of options, from Bluetooth headphone adapters that make your wired pair wireless, to the plug-and-play options we've got below. Another way is one of the best DACs for iPhone – but those will cost you a whole lot more.
One of our favorites is the Belkin 3.5mm Audio + Charge RockStar. It's incredibly versatile. You're still able to charge your phone while listening to music, and it's MFi certified, so it's guaranteed to work. It's far from the only option though, so take a look below at our other choices.
Quick List
A fantastic option that not only allows you to connect a 3.5mm headphone jack to your device but also lets you charge your iPhone at the same time with 12W fast charging.
Apple's Lightning to 3.5mm adapter is no frills but has awesome sound quality thanks to a decent DAC. This cost-effective option is the go-to for most people.
Don't want a dongle? Opt for a longer cable instead like this one from Belkin. While on the more expensive side, you don't need an adapter.
Apple's USB-C to 3.5mm adapter is just as good as the Lightning offering but works with all of the best iPhones including the iPhone 15 Pro Max and the best iPads too.
This UGREEN headphone adapter is incredibly durable thanks to a gorgeous braided cable available in different unique colors. Unfortunately, there's no passthrough charging.
This unique right-angle design from Mangotek is great for saving space. If you want a dongle that won't awkwardly stick out from your iPhone then this is the one for you.
Best overall
One of the biggest problems with the Apple option is that you can't charge your phone while you use it. That isn't an issue when you use the Belkin 3.5mm Audio + Charge RockStar. It sticks another lightning connector on the end to go with the headphone jack, so you can do both. While it isn't as fast as traditional charging, it will still reach up to 12W fast charging.
Just make sure to look out for which version you buy. There are two with one offering two lightning ports on the end, while another has one Lightning port and one 3.5mm jack connector. That's the one you need it.
Best value
If you have an older iPhone, you may already have one of these as it came in the box just after Apple killed off the headphone jack. For newer iPhone owners, you can buy one separately.
For an Apple accessory, it's fairly inexpensive, is MFi certified, and it'll work very well with any iPhone you plug it into. Unless you need a charging pass-through, this adapter will suffice.
It also works as a DAC and amp, similar to the one found in the iPhone 6s. It can drive most consumer-level headphones and speakers. While you won't be gaining Apple Music Lossless level of quality, it does sound noticeably better than other options. If nothing else, it's perfect as a 'toss in a bag or drawer until you need it' headphone adapter.
Best cable
Rather than an adapter, this is a cable with a headphone plug on one end and a Lightning connector on the other. That means no need for an adapter to plug your iPhone into an amp or your car stereo.
It won't work with most headphones but it's ideal for home stereos, car audio systems, and Bluetooth speakers that have headphone audio outs. If you want to plug your iPhone into a lot of different non-Lightning devices, this isn't the best option but it does suit a role.
Best for iPad
iPad owners won't have a Lightning connector on the bottom of their device. Instead, you have a USB-C port. In which case, you'll need one of these adapters from Apple which converts the port into a headphone jack. There's no pass-through charging here, but you can easily use your headphones with this method.
It's small, relatively inexpensive, and easy to toss into your bag. It also works with other devices with USB-C ports and no headphone jack, including Android phones and other tablets. When the iPhone 15 arrives this year, it's also going to be the best option as the Lightning port is being replaced with an USB-C port.
Most durable
More durable than other adapters here, Ugreen's adapter has a thick braided cable section along with aluminum plugs on either end. It'll protect the cable from sharp bends and prevent damage from pulls. It's also much harder to get tangled up.
A few color options are available, plus it's MFi certified so it'll reliably work with the latest iPhones and iOS updates. If you're liable to be a little rough and ready with your devices and cables, this is a good solution to a rugged lifestyle.
Best design
Rather than being a regular cable, this adapter is more of an angled, hard plastic one. It's perfect for saving space as it fits snugly to the side of your iPhone, meaning it doesn't stick out too much at the bottom.
Mangotek's adapter also has a built-in keychain loop so you can easily attach it to your keys and never have to worry about leaving it behind. It's MFi certified too, so it'll safely work with all your Apple devices.
Because of its design, it won't suit every purpose, but it's pretty sleek and neat looking.
Q&A
Which headphone jack adapter should I buy?
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Whether you've got an old favorite pair of headphones that you can't go without or you just hate Bluetooth, the best headphone adapters will ensure that your headphones will work with your iPhone. You have plenty of options at your disposal including passthrough charging, travel-friendly features, and those with more robust designs. Perhaps the most important thing to look for is MFi certification. It's Apple's way of ensuring the accessories you buy will work safely and efficiently with your Apple devices.
The 3.5mm Audio + Charge Rockstar from Belkin is our pick of the bunch here, as it lets you charge as you listen. It's a solid little option at a great price, with fast charging and renowned Belkin build quality.
What about headphone adapters for iPhone 15?
The iPhone 15 isn't out yet but all signs point to it having a USB-C port instead of Lightning. That means you'll need a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter. We can't see the iPhone 15 gaining its own headphone jack again, so plan for a dedicated USB-C to 3.5mm adapter as part of your purchase.
