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USB-C headphones are not a solution to the missing headphone jack
August 14, 2025
In theory,USB-C headphonessolve the case of the missingheadphone jack, but in reality, it’s a small band-aid lackadaisically placed over a gaping wound. It’s been just over a year since the dying headphone jack trend began; thus, it’s been a year sinceUSB audiobecame relevant. In that year, though, we’ve seen little improvement and plenty of headache-inducing compatibility issues. Maybe 2019 will be the year that USB-C earbuds truly replace 3.5mm ones.
To get a more comprehensive understanding of the inner-workings of USB-C headphones, be sure to read the in-depth article on our sister siteSoundGuys.
In brief: USB-C headphones
USB-C earbuds and headphones rose in popularity when Google announced itsPixel 2 and Pixel 2 XLwould abandon the headphone jack. The company’s grand solution for those clinging to wired audio: a dongle. Which is now so infamous it merited its ownhashtag.
Alas, before diving into what could easily become a diatribe, there are a few things we should understand about USB-C audio.
If the headphone jack becomes a luxury feature, thenplebeianUSB-C audio must be reliable
Seeing as manufacturers have the gall to expel the headphone jack from smartphone existence, they should expand their purviews to USB-C audio. Yes, a few OEMs released proprietary wireless earbuds like theGoogle Pixel Budsand theApple AirPods, butBluetooth audiocan’t compete with wired audio quality.
Before citing theGoogle Pixel USB earbudsas a functional option,SoundGuysExecutive Editor Chris Thomas will plainly tell you it isn’t. Quite the contrary, in fact: the buds fall out and sound worse than similarly-priced models . The only redeeming quality is that the earbuds are included with thePixel 3 and Pixel 3XL.
It isn’t just sound quality and comfort that disappoint when using USB-C headphones. No, that would be far too easy to forgive. Rather, it’s the insulting lack of universal compatibility that’s a wanton slap in the face.
The most salient example of this pertains to theAIAIAI Pipe 2.0, which went only partially recognized by my LG G6 during the review. To clarify, media audio is transmitted but when taking a call: the phone’s microphone overrides that of the Pipe 2.0. Further investigation — reaching for the notification shade — revealed that the earbuds are officially recognized as a power supply despite the fact that they’re, well, earbuds.
This point, however, isn’t made to throw AIAIAI under the bus. After all, itsTMA-2 MFG4are some of the best USB-C headphones available. Instead, this anecdote illustrates the unavoidable compatibility issues tormenting USB-C headphone users.
2019 looks promising
As we round the corner in what looks to be anotherfast-paced yearin tech, we’re anxiously awaiting an improvement in USB-C headphones. Recently,OnePlusandRazer— two esteemed OEMs — threw their hats into the USB-C audio ring with the Type-C Bullets and Hammerhead USB-C ANC, respectively.
Additionally,Google Trendsreveals searches for “USB-C headphones” rose steadily over 2018. As it stands, we’re looking at a sparse spread of viable USB-C headphones. If anything, growing consumer interest should cause other companies to try their hands at USB-C audio, which is desperately needed. Besides, it’s not going to take much to dominate thisdilapidated market.
Personally, I have high hopes for OnePlus’ Type-C Bullets as itsBullets Wirelessearbuds are so popular they seem out-of-stock more often than in-stock. Perhaps seeing OnePlus’ success will galvanize other companies likeSamsungorLGto develop their own USB-C earbuds. What’s more, we should call on more niche audio brands likeMaster & DynamicorAudio-Technicashould give it a go. Best case scenario a company holds a temporary monopoly over the USB-C domain. Worst case scenario, development remains stagnant.
Solid alternatives to USB-C headphones
As I continue to sing my solemn USB-C audio dirge, there is hope: if you don’t want to wait for companies to produce excellent USB-C headphones, there are plenty of exemplary wireless options.
Listeners looking to quiet their surroundings may enjoyPoly BackBeat Go 410, a pair ofnoise cancelling earbudsthat operate via Bluetooth 5.0 and are priced fairly given their feature set. If, however, you want to cut the cord completely while achieving the same silence, theSony WF-SP700N, is a top-notch true wireless option from the same company that makes the respectedWH-1000XM3.
What’s more, there are plenty ofAirPods alternativesout there and theRHA TrueConnectis one of the best by providing a cogent seal, modern design, and comprehensive onboard controls. If you’re on a budget but still pining aftertrue wireless earbuds, then theAnker Soundcore Liberty Airdeserves some attention. These water-resistant earbuds are great for exercising and provide 4.82 hours of playback time before requiring a recharge, which is remarkable by true wireless standards.
As cathartic as it is to bemoan the state of USB-C headphones, I look forward to what 2019 brings to the table. We deserve better than shoddy alternatives to wired earbuds andshouldn’t settle for a life of wireless listening, because a dongle isn’t a long-term solution. If we’re having therug pulled outfrom under us, companies should at least have the decency to replace it with passable laminate.
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