The headphone jack is disappearing. Most modern phones now rely heavily on USB-C for charging, data, and wired audio. That creates a small problem if you still prefer wired headphones.
You can use an adapter, but that’s another tiny accessory to buy, carry, and eventually lose.
USB-C headphones solve the problem by plugging directly into a compatible phone, tablet, laptop, or computer.
And there are some real advantages. You don’t have to pair anything. Traditional wired USB-C earbuds don’t need to be charged. There’s no Bluetooth connection to drop out. Some models even include their own digital-to-analog converter, or DAC, which can provide impressive sound from a simple USB-C connection.
For most people looking specifically for affordable wired USB-C earbuds, the Sennheiser CX 80U is my favorite overall choice. It combines a simple wired design with a built-in DAC and support for high-resolution audio.
For iPhone users who want something cheaper and simpler, Apple’s USB-C EarPods are extremely easy to recommend.
What is the Best USB-C Headphones?
Here are some of the best USB-C headphones to consider.
1. Sennheiser CX 80U – Best USB-C Headphones Overall
The Sennheiser CX 80U is exactly the type of product USB-C users have been waiting for. It’s a simple pair of wired in-ear headphones designed around a USB-C connection.
- No Bluetooth.
- No charging case.
- No pairing.
Just plug them into a compatible device and start listening. Sennheiser equips the CX 80U with 9.7 mm dynamic drivers and a built-in digital-to-analog converter capable of supporting audio up to 24-bit/96 kHz.
That’s particularly interesting for listeners who subscribe to high-quality streaming services or keep lossless music files on their devices.
The in-ear design also provides more passive noise isolation than open-style earbuds. You get multiple ear-tip sizes so you can find a better seal. There’s also an inline microphone and remote for calls and playback control.
The CX 80U isn’t trying to compete with expensive audiophile headphones. Its strength is providing good wired sound in a simple, affordable USB-C package.
2. Apple EarPods USB-C – Best Budget USB-C Earbuds
Apple’s EarPods are about as simple as wired headphones get. Plug them in. Put them in your ears. Start listening. The USB-C version is compatible with USB-C-equipped iPhones, iPads, Macs, and other supported devices.
Apple uses its familiar open EarPods shape rather than silicone ear tips. Whether that’s good or bad depends entirely on your ears.
Some people find EarPods extremely comfortable because nothing is pushed deep into the ear canal. Others prefer the tighter seal of conventional in-ear headphones.
The built-in remote lets you adjust volume, control music and video playback, and answer or end calls. There’s also a built-in microphone. The biggest attraction is price and simplicity.
If you own a recent USB-C iPhone and simply want inexpensive wired headphones for calls, videos, podcasts, and music, there’s very little setup involved.
3. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) – Best Premium USB-C Headphones
USB-C headphones don’t have to be cheap wired earbuds. Some premium wireless headphones can also play audio directly through USB. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) are a good example.
You can use them wirelessly over Bluetooth or connect through USB for wired digital listening. That versatility makes them useful if you want one premium headphone for travel, work, and home listening. Noise cancellation is one of the biggest attractions.
If you’re regularly flying, commuting, or working in noisy environments, strong ANC can make a much bigger difference than simply turning your music louder.
The important thing to understand is that USB support varies between premium headphones.
For example, USB-C audio doesn’t necessarily mean the microphone will also operate through the wired USB connection.
4. Focal Bathys – Best USB-C Headphones for Audiophiles
The Focal Bathys takes USB-C listening in a more audiophile-focused direction. These are premium wireless over-ear headphones, but they also provide USB connectivity with a built-in DAC mode. That’s important.
When you connect compatible headphones digitally over USB-C, the headphone’s internal DAC can handle the conversion from digital audio to the analog signal required by the drivers.
That can provide an easy way to get high-quality wired playback from a phone or laptop without carrying a separate portable DAC.
The Bathys is significantly more expensive than something like the Sennheiser CX 80U. They’re designed for a completely different buyer. If you simply need earbuds for YouTube videos and phone calls, they’re unnecessary.
If you’re an enthusiast who cares heavily about sound quality and wants premium wireless headphones that can also function as USB-C DAC headphones, they’re much more interesting.
5. Samsung AKG USB-C Earphones – Best for Samsung Galaxy Phones
Samsung’s AKG Type-C earphones have been a popular choice for Galaxy users. They’re straightforward wired earbuds designed to connect directly through USB-C.
That makes them particularly convenient for Galaxy phones that don’t include a traditional 3.5 mm headphone jack.
The in-ear design provides more isolation than Apple’s open EarPods design, assuming you get a good fit.
They’re also useful for calls because you don’t have to worry about Bluetooth pairing or charging.
Availability can vary, however, and there are many cheap products online that imitate Samsung accessories.
Final Thoughts
For affordable wired listening with an emphasis on sound quality, choose the Sennheiser CX 80U.
For USB-C iPhone users wanting something inexpensive and simple, choose Apple EarPods USB-C. For Samsung Galaxy users, consider genuine Samsung AKG USB-C Earphones.
For premium over-ear headphones with excellent noise cancellation and USB playback, consider the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen).
And if you’re an audiophile who wants a premium headphone with a USB DAC mode, the Focal Bathys deserves consideration.