USB-C Headphones – The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

headphones usb c

With the new wave of Android phones that feature the USB-C port, many customers are wondering what to do about a missing headphone jack. There are two options: buy a USB-C to 3.5mm (F) adapter, or get a pair of wireless headphones. In this article, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of both.

As with any technology, there are some good and some bad models out there. For example, the Essential HD earphones are great for Android phones, but they don’t match the quality of their corresponding 3.5mm model. That being said, these earphones are worth a look for their price and their performance. Unlike many other USB-C headphones, they’re actually well built and offer a decent balance of highs and lows. However, their bass is too muddy for my tastes. They also aren’t suitable for listening to bass-heavy music.

On the other hand, the Q ADAPT USB-C in-ear headphones offer a solid balance of highs and lows, plus some splash-proof protection. Its IPX4 rating means that the headphones can survive rain and heavy sweat. The headphones also come with four pairs of silicone ear tips and a small carrying pouch. Although the ADAPT isn’t perfect, it’s still a step up from the competition.

Another big difference between USB-C headphones and traditional headphone models is the ability to integrate the ANC (active noise cancellation) technology. This is a nifty feature that reduces noise and improves sound quality. Not all USB-C headphones will support ANC. Those that do usually draw all of the power from the phone. Rather than using an external battery, USB-C models can use the onboard DAC to convert the audio stream into an analog signal. This makes them much lighter and less bulky than traditional headphones.

Some USB-C headphones are able to send data to the phone, such as tracking pulse or adjusting EQ modes. While these features aren’t yet widely available, they are possible. Compared to the average Bluetooth headset, they’re also easier to pair and work in conjunction with your smartphone.

If you want the best USB-C earphones, look for the ones that are compatible with multiple phones. Xiaomi’s Mi ANC earphones are officially tested with several phones, including the iPhone X, Google Pixel 2, and HTC U11, but they won’t work with the Samsung S8, OnePlus 6, or LG G6. So, you might have to settle for one of the other models. But they’re definitely the best USB-C headphones under $70.

While the Q ADAPT headphones aren’t the most innovative or impressive USB-C device on the market, they’re certainly better than the mediocre offerings from competitors like the JBL Reflect Aware. Despite their lackluster ANC capabilities, they still manage to provide a clear and punchy sound with great highs and mids. Plus, they come with a user manual and a small pouch for traveling.

While the Razer phone mic is a clever concept, it’s not a perfect solution. Like the Q ADAPT, it may not work with every phone.