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.
Best Overall: Belkin 3.5mm Audio + Charge RockStar
You can always trust iMore. Our team of Apple experts have years of experience testing all kinds of tech and gadgets, so you can be sure our recommendations and criticisms are accurate and helpful. Find out more about how we test.
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: Apple Lightning to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter
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: Belkin 3.5 mm Audio Cable With Lightning Connector
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: Apple USB-C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter
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.
Best Durability: UGREEN Headphone Adapter for Apple
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: Mangotek Lightning to 3.5mm Headphone Adapter
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.
The bottom line
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.
