Apple USB-C to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter

This might be a little expensive, like most Apple products, but it's the only adapter I've tried that doesn't suck for audiobooks. I wasted time (and $10) on inexpensive Chinese brands (KUXIYAN, OITYEUF) which all had static noise and a poorly designed auto-mute function. The auto-mute in the cheapo DAC is designed to make static less noticeable but it actually cuts off sound at the wrong time. The DAC mutes if the speaker takes a breath for 2 seconds, then it doesn't turn on in time so words seem randomly cut-off. In the last novel I was listening to, this kept happening on new chapters so I had no idea perspectives and locations were changing. That was a terrible experience.This doesn't apply to music which has constant noise in the background. So if you're just listening to music and dont care about minor static then you can just buy a cheapo one.The Apple adapter had NO problems at all. Just plug and play. No more micromanaging bluetooth earbuds(carry a bulky storage case, remember to charge, turn it off in settings if you want to switch device) and I can use my expensive IEMs. I wish I had simply started with this one instead of troubleshooting with different adapters, different phones, etc. It's shorter and thinner than my other adapters but that doesn't matter to me. This is the only time I've ever recommended Apple.

Pros:High-Quality Audio: Apple is known for its premium audio experience, and this adapter is no exception. It supports high-quality audio output, ensuring that your headphones provide crisp and clear sound without compromising on audio fidelity.Plug-and-Play: This adapter is incredibly easy to use—simply plug it into your device’s USB-C port and connect your 3.5 mm headphones. There’s no need to install drivers or perform any complex setup, making it a convenient accessory for on-the-go use.Compact and Portable: The adapter is small and lightweight, making it highly portable. It’s easy to throw into a bag or pocket, so you can carry it with you whenever you need it, without taking up much space.Durable Build: True to Apple’s reputation, the adapter is made of durable materials. It feels solid, with a well-built cable and sturdy connectors, ensuring it will last through regular use.Universal Compatibility: While specifically designed for devices with a USB-C port, it works well with a wide range of USB-C devices, including Android phones, tablets, laptops, and other gadgets. This versatility makes it a good option for anyone transitioning from a 3.5 mm jack to USB-C.Retains 3.5mm Headphone Use: If you own a good pair of wired 3.5 mm headphones, this adapter lets you keep using them even on devices that no longer include a headphone jack, preventing you from having to upgrade to wireless headphones.Cons:No Inline Controls: This adapter does not support inline controls (such as volume adjustment or microphone input) if your headphones include them. It is purely for audio output and does not facilitate additional functions like button presses or mic use, which might be an issue for some users.Price: As with many Apple accessories, the price for this adapter may be higher than third-party alternatives. While Apple’s product guarantees quality and compatibility, some users may find similar adapters from other brands for a lower price.Limited to Audio: The adapter is specifically designed for audio output only and won’t support other functions like charging or data transfer. It’s purely for users looking to connect their headphones to a USB-C device.Not Always Perfect for All Devices: While the adapter works seamlessly with many devices, some users have reported compatibility issues with certain third-party Android devices or specific apps, particularly for audio input like voice recording.Conclusion:The Apple USB-C to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter is a high-quality, simple solution for connecting wired headphones to devices that have transitioned to USB-C. It delivers solid audio performance, is compact and portable, and ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices. However, it does come at a premium price point and lacks advanced features like inline controls or support for charging. If you need a reliable adapter to use your 3.5 mm headphones with USB-C devices and don’t mind the price, it’s a great option. If you’re looking for more affordable alternatives, other third-party adapters may offer similar functionality for less.

Sound quality is great for daily listening.

If you have the RODE WIRELESS GO 2, this will work with it. I tried other adapters and they have a muffled sounds that went away when using this one.

This adapter loses one star for the cost. The Apple product will always cost more. I suggest however that the cost is worth it when the alternatives are often from sketchy or untrustworthy sources and one can’t be too careful nowadays with anything you plug into your personal devices.Having owned other Apple adapters of this nature, I’ve found the durability is solid. These adapters will last. They have an aesthetic that matches the Apple ecosystem and their branded wired earphones, but of course work with any brand. The connectivity delivers audio quality and fits well onto a variety of audio cables.

I tried to buy the cheaper off-brand but neither worked in the two-pack I received. This worked immediately so worth the extra.

Whoever invented this needs to die. Too expensive for something so small, which makes me worry about losing it. But other than all that, it’s nice and works as intended.

Works alright for most earbuds. For IEMs, it may not work (not powerful enough to carry both sound and mic for my IEMs).