Many Android phone makers nowadays opt for USB-C audio and Bluetooth instead of the headphone jack. The removal of the jack makes it possible to make thinner phones that use fewer connectors. As such, a single USB-C port acts as a one-size-fits-all connection for audio connectivity, sharing files, and charging.
The best USB-C headphones have a lot to offer, including ultra-fast charging speeds and a plug-and-play design. Some key factors you should consider when looking for USB-C headphones are durability, audio quality, noise-canceling capabilities, and comfort.
Here’s a guide to the best USB-C headphones available right now.
Experience exceptional comfort while listening to vibrant sound quality with the SENNHEISER Momentum 3. The frequency separation is incredible, making it easy to hear every bass, treble, and mid-range note in perfect harmony regardless of the genre of music. Everything, including the heart-thumping bass, is presented on a well-organized sound stage.
You get three ANC modes; anti-wind, anti-pressure, and maximum. As a result, you can pick one that best suits your listening environment. The genuine leather head strap and quality ear cups make the SENNHEISER Momentum 3 comfortable to wear for long periods.
Using these headphones is easy, thanks to the intuitive auto on/off and smart pause controls. The battery life performance is excellent, lasting up to 17 hours on the noise-canceling mode. You can quick-charge the headphones using the USB-C cable for 10 minutes, and the battery will last up to 1.5 hours when listening to audio.
- 42mm speaker drivers
- Three-button interface
- Automatic pairing mode
- Bluetooth 5.0
- Brand: SENNHEISER
- Battery Life: 17 hours
- Material: Leather
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Noise Cancellation: Yes
- Stunning sound quality
- Effective noise cancellation
- Excellent build quality
- A bit bulky
The Shure AONIC 50 are a high-quality set of USB-C headphones, making them an ideal pick for audiophiles and casual listeners. The headphones support multiple codecs, including aptX HD, Qualcomm aptX, Sony LDAC, AAC, SBC, and aptX Low Latency audio. The Bluetooth 5 wireless technology ensures a stable connection up to 30 feet.
There are a handful of buttons on the right ear cup. These are intuitive to use and allow you to adjust playback, volume, power on the headphones and pair them to your Bluetooth device. A single charge should see the AONIC 50 last for about 20 hours.
The well-laid cushioning on the headband and earcups make the Shure AONIC 50 comfortable even when wearing for many hours. In addition, the headphones work incredibly well for users wearing glasses or other frames.
- Fingertip controls
- Includes a 3.5mm analog audio input
- Adjustable noise cancellation
- Supports multiple codecs
- Brand: Shure
- Battery Life: 20 hours
- Material: Leather
- Bluetooth: Yes
- Noise Cancellation: Yes
- Offers stable connection
- Great sound quality
- Premium build
- Lacks folding hinges
People who value excellent audio quality and flexibility will love the Sennheiser SC 160 headphones. They are built with comfort in mind, thanks to the bendable boom arm that allows users to find their perfect fit. Using the Sennheiser C 160 is straightforward with the four in-line controls.
The noise-canceling microphone enables users to have a crystal-clear conversation even in case of background noise. The Voice Clarity technology also makes working in a noisy environment painless by blocking sounds from other colleagues.
The Sennheiser SC 160 offers a 2-in-1 earpad style, allowing users to choose between light acoustic foam and soft leatherette for long-term comfort. They are also easy to transport and store, with a fold-flat ear cup design.
- Two-year warranty
- 2-in-1 earpad style
- HD stereo sound
- Bendable boom arm
- Brand: Sennheiser
- Battery Life: N/A
- Material: Foam, plastic
- Bluetooth: No
- Noise Cancellation: No
- Plug-and-play connectivity
- Noise isolation technology
- Sleek design
- No noise isolation
The Samsung EO-IC100BWEGUS are some of the best in-ear headphones for those looking for clear, well-balanced audio. Music flows with impressive energy and detail, making these headphones a brilliant choice for traveling and outdoor activities.
Each lightweight earbud sits comfortably in your ear and offers a snug fit. This makes them an ideal choice for workouts, outdoor exercise, or other high-movement activities.
The earphones have a built-in DAC for high-quality audio reproduction. The fabric cable is designed to prevent tangles. Despite the affordable price, these headphones are also tuned by AKG.
- Compatible with the Samsung Galaxy Note 10
- Tuned by AKG
- Built-in DAC
- Brand: Samsung
- Battery Life: N/A
- Bluetooth: No
- Additional Tips: Yes
- Noise Cancellation: No
- Lightweight design
- Excellent sound quality
- Doesn’t tangle easily
- Some static noise
The Belkin In-Ear Headphones offer premium features in a lightweight and easy-to-use package. The headphones are comfortable and offer high-quality audio reproduction. They come with three different-sized ear tips that allow you to find an ideal fit. These ear tips conform in your inner ear, directing music toward your eardrum.
The design delivers excellent noise isolation, allowing you to listen to music without distractions. Gym enthusiasts will benefit from the splash and sweat-resistance feature, too. For this reason, you can push your limits when doing intense workouts without worrying about any damage.
Use the multi-control button to pause, play, answer a phone call, or adjust the volume. When connected to a smartphone, you can use these headphones to take calls. The lightweight and flat design make the set tangle-free, as well.
- Sweat and splash-resistant
- Built-in microphone
- Multi-control button
- Brand: Belkin
- Battery Life: N/A
- Bluetooth: No
- Additional Tips: Yes
- Noise Cancellation: No
- Comfortable to wear over long periods
- Excellent audio performance
- Lightweight design
- Patchy microphone performance
The OnePlus 7 Pro 6T wired USB-C in-ear headphones come with a built-in DAC for high-quality audio reproduction. Each speaker features a high-quality film diaphragm, making whatever you’re listening to sound more realistic and engaging.
The in-ear design is comfortable, even over long periods so that you can listen for hours without hassle. The headphones are lightweight and easy to clean, too.
You can answer a call or pause a song without touching your phone using the three-button in-line remote control. The flat-wire cables are threaded with tough Karbon fiber for maximum durability and a tangle-free experience.
- Built-in DAC
- Tangle-free cord
- Three-button in-line remote control
- High-quality film diaphragm
- Brand: OnePlus
- Battery Life: N/A
- Bluetooth: No
- Additional Tips: No
- Noise Cancellation: No
- Easy-to-use remote
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Mediocre audio quality across some musical genres
The KINGONE USB-C Headphones are a set of comfortable USB-C headphones. The earbuds are also magnetic for easy storage. The integrated DAC offers high-resolution audio output across a range of genres.
Performance-wise, the headphones produce a stereo output with deep bass and high-quality trebles. The USB-C connector means they can be used across a range of supported smartphones, making them an affordable choice for most Android users.
The cable is coated in TPE, and the earbuds are contained in ABS housing for increased durability.
- Wide compatibility
- Secure magnetic earbuds
- Integrated DAC
- Built-in microphone
- Brand: KINGONE
- Battery Life: N/A
- Bluetooth: No
- Additional Tips: No
- Noise Cancellation: No
- Durable materials
- Excellent audio quality
- Lightweight design
- Quite uncomfortable for users with large ears
FAQ
Q: Are USB-C Headphones Better Than Micro-USB?
Although both cables have a lifespan of 10,000 cycles, a USB-C connector slides right in regardless of your chosen orientation. You may have noticed that a connector becomes looser with each plugging, but the best USB-C headphones have a physical design that reduces wear, increasing durability.
Additionally, headphones with a USB-C connector can handle a maximum output power of up to 120W, while a micro-USB port handles around 18W. With USB-C headphones, you can get up to seven hours of extra juice in a couple of minutes compared to a micro-USB set, which can take hours to recharge.
Q: What Should You Consider Before Buying USB-C Headphones?
One of the critical concerns should be broad compatibility since some headphones are solely for a specific brand. Before picking the best USB-C headphones, ensure it is compatible with your device. Audio quality is also essential, especially if you are a fan of high-quality codecs like FLAC.
As such, it’s advisable to choose are a pair of headphones that supports high-resolution codecs for an immersive listening experience. Always check your preferred style of headphones since there’s a variety of in-ear and over-ear designs. The best USB-C headphones should offer maximum comfort, even over long periods.
Q: What’s the Difference Between Passive and Active USB-C Headphones?
Passive headphones rely on your smartphone's amp and DAC to convert the audio signal from digital to analog. In this case, connected headphones don't require their own DAC since the conversion happens before going through the USB-C port. Most passive USB-C headphones will work with almost all types of smartphones.
However, other smartphones send audio data in digital signals through the USB-C port. Therefore, connected headphones will require their onboard amp and DAC to convert audio from digital to analog. Such headphones connect with smartphones that support the Audio Accessory mode.
Q: Can I Repair USB-C Headphones?
Before taking your USB-C headphones to any repair center, check whether there are any software updates. If not, inspect to see if there are any broken parts or exposed wires. Depending on the problem, you can decide to perform a quick fix or visit a reputable repair shop in your area.
However, sometimes the headphones may not be the problem, so it’s best to clean the USB-C port. You can do this by gently removing dust and lint since they block the connection between your headphones and the connectors.
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