How do I use wired headphones with an Android phone that has no headphone jack?
Last checked November 14, 2026
Short answer
Use a USB-C to 3.5 mm adapter with a built-in DAC (sound chip). Cheap passive adapters only work on some phones, so the DAC kind is the safe pick.
Best matchUSB-C to 3.5 mm headphone adapter (with DAC)
See UGREEN options on AmazonHow to connect it
- Plug the adapter into the phone's USB-C port.
- Plug your headphones into the adapter.
- Play something. If nothing plays, the adapter is probably passive; swap it for a DAC adapter.
Check this first
- Most phones without a headphone jack need an adapter with a built-in DAC (sound chip). Cheap passive adapters only work on some phones.
- Pick one with a built-in DAC (a small sound chip). Cheap 'passive' adapters only work on some phones.
- For iPhone 15 and newer, Apple's own USB-C to 3.5 mm adapter works.
- Headphones with a microphone and buttons have three black rings on the plug. If you take calls, check the adapter says it supports a microphone.
- A basic adapter has no charging port. If you need to charge while you listen, pick one with a USB-C charging port.
Questions people ask
What is the difference between DAC and passive adapters?
A DAC adapter turns the phone's digital sound into headphone sound itself, so it works on almost any USB-C phone. A passive adapter needs the phone to do that, which many phones do not support.
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