In today’s world, many people use Bluetooth headphones and earbuds, but some still prefer the reliable and simple 3.5mm headphone jack. This allows you to use your favorite wired headphones, connect your phone to your car stereo, and avoid worrying about charging. There are still phones available in 2024 that have a 3.5mm headphone jack, catering to these preferences.
This article looks at some of the best smartphones across different brands and price ranges that keep this feature. We will examine options from the compact ASUS Zenfone 10 (released July 10, 2023) to the powerful Sony Xperia 5 V (released September 1st, 2023), discussing the pros and cons of each. A comparison table summarizing key features and prices will also be included. Additionally, we will explore alternatives for those considering wireless headphones or needing an adapter for phones without a headphone jack. The headphone jack used to be a standard feature on smartphones, but it is becoming less common as manufacturers remove it. They often say it saves space and reflects the rise of wireless audio.
Despite this trend, many consumers still value wired headphones for their reliability and sound quality. Some brands, like Asus, still offer models with headphone jacks, but many others have phased them out. While finding phones with this feature can be challenging, options remain available for those who want to use wired headphones without adapters. The ongoing presence of the 3.5mm jack in certain smartphones shows that there is still a demand for wired audio connections.
Best Phones with Headphone Jacks in 2024
Many people still prefer the classic 3.5mm headphone jack for listening to music or podcasts. You might have your reasons, like using a favorite pair of wired headphones or wanting to avoid the hassle of Bluetooth. Whatever your reason, you have options. Here are some of the best phones in 2024 that still include a headphone jack:
1. ASUS Zenfone 10
- Pros: Excellent camera, compact size, smooth performance
- Cons: Only 2 years of OS updates
This phone is a great all-rounder, offering a headphone jack and high-end features.
2. Sony Xperia 5 V
- Pros: Powerful processor, fantastic display
- Cons: Expensive
Sony continues its tradition of including headphone jacks in its phones. The Xperia 5 V is a top-tier device with a high price tag.
Google Pixel Options With Headphone Jacks
The following Google Pixel models have a headphone jack:
- Pixel
- Pixel 3a
- Pixel 4a
- Pixel 4a (5G)
- Pixel 5a
- Pixel XL
- Pixel 3a XL
The Pixel 2, Pixel 3, Pixel 4, Pixel 4 XL, Pixel 5, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7, and Pixel 7a do not have a headphone jack.
Google removed the headphone jack from some of its phones because they felt it didn’t align with their product specifications and the Google ecosystem. However, if you have a Pixel phone without a headphone jack, you can still use a Bluetooth headset or connect a USB Type-C to 3.5 mm adapter.
Apple iPhone Options With Headphone Jacks
if you are looking for iPhones that have a headphone jack, these are the models that were released with one:
- iPhone (1st generation)
- iPhone 3G
- iPhone 3GS
- iPhone 4
- iPhone 4s
- iPhone 5
- iPhone 5c
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
- iPhone 6s
- iPhone 6s Plus
- iPhone SE (1st generation)
Samsung Galaxy Phone Options With Headphone Jacks
- Galaxy A Series:
- Galaxy A25 5G
- Galaxy A15 5G
- Galaxy A15
- Galaxy A05s
- Galaxy A05
- Galaxy A24 4G
- Galaxy A14
- Galaxy A14 5G
- Galaxy A04e
- Galaxy A04s
- Galaxy A04
- Galaxy A13
- Galaxy M Series:
- Galaxy M05
- Galaxy M15
- Galaxy M14 4G
- Galaxy M14
- Galaxy M04
- Galaxy M13 5G
- Galaxy M13 (India)
- Galaxy M13
- Galaxy F Series:
- Galaxy F05
- Galaxy F14 4G
- Galaxy F15
- Galaxy F34
- Galaxy F14
- Galaxy F04
- Galaxy F13
- Galaxy F23
- Galaxy S Series
- Samsung Galaxy S (2010)
- Samsung Galaxy S II (2011)
- Samsung Galaxy S III (2012)
- Samsung Galaxy S III mini (2012)
- Samsung Galaxy S4 (2013)
- Samsung Galaxy S4 mini (2013)
- Samsung Galaxy S5 (2014)
- Samsung Galaxy S5 mini (2014)
- Samsung Galaxy S6 (2015)
- Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge (2015)
- Samsung Galaxy S7 (2016)
- Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge (2016)
- Samsung Galaxy S8 (2017)
- Samsung Galaxy S8+ (2017)
- Samsung Galaxy S9 (2018)
- Samsung Galaxy S9+ (2018)
- Samsung Galaxy S10e (2019)
- Samsung Galaxy S10 (2019)
- Samsung Galaxy S10+ (2019)
- Others:
- Galaxy XCover7
- Galaxy Tab Active5
- Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2024)
- Galaxy Tab A9+
- Galaxy Tab A9
Slightly Older Models (2021-2022):
- Galaxy A52s 5G (2021)
- Galaxy S20 FE 5G
- Galaxy A50
- Galaxy A12
- Galaxy A20
- Galaxy A21
- Galaxy A42 5G
- Galaxy A71 5G
- Galaxy A23 5G
- Galaxy M33
- Galaxy M23
- Galaxy A23
- Galaxy Tab A8 10.5 (2021)
- Galaxy Tab A7 10.4 (2022)
- Galaxy Tab Active4 Pro
- Galaxy XCover6 Pro
- Galaxy Tab S6 Lite (2022)
Dongles and Adapters
If you’ve already invested in a phone without a headphone jack, don’t worry! You can still use your wired headphones with a dongle or adapter. These small devices plug into your phone’s charging port and provide a 3.5mm headphone jack.
When choosing a dongle or adapter, it’s essential to ensure it’s compatible with your phone. Some dongles are designed for specific phone models, while others are universal.
Popular Dongle and Adapter Options:
- Apple Lightning to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter: This adapter is for iPhones with a Lightning connector.
- Google USB-C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter: This adapter is for Android phones with a USB-C connector.
- UGREEN USB-C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter: This is a popular universal adapter that works with various Android phones.
Dongles and adapters are a great way to use your wired headphones with a phone without a headphone jack. They’re typically small and portable, making them easy to carry.
Wireless Headphones
Wireless headphones are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. They offer several advantages over wired headphones, including:
- Freedom of movement: You can move around without being tethered to your phone.
- Convenience: You don’t have to worry about tangled cords.
- Improved sound quality: Some wireless headphones offer better sound quality than wired headphones.
If you’re considering switching to wireless headphones, here are a few things to remember:
- Battery life: Wireless headphones need to be charged regularly.
- Price: Wireless headphones can be more expensive than wired headphones.
- Compatibility: Ensure your wireless headphones are compatible with your phone.
Many wireless headphones are available, so it’s essential to research and find the best ones for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- Some smartphone manufacturers still offer models with 3.5mm headphone jacks
- Options range from affordable Android phones to specialized gaming devices
- The headphone jack remains important for users who prefer wired audio connections
Top Mid-Range Smartphone
OnePlus Nord N30 5G
The OnePlus Nord N30 5G offers impressive features at a reasonable price. Its 120Hz display provides smooth scrolling and responsive touch input. The device boasts a high-resolution camera for capturing detailed photos. Performance is solid, handling everyday tasks with ease.
Battery life is average, lasting through a typical day of use. The phone lacks an official water resistance rating. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Nord N30 5G delivers good value for budget-conscious buyers seeking 5G connectivity and a capable camera system.
Top Budget-Friendly Android Device
Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
The Samsung Galaxy A15 5G stands out in the sub-$400 segment. This budget phone offers excellent value with its long-lasting battery and capable camera system. Samsung’s software support policy guarantees multiple years of updates.
The A15 5G’s plastic construction keeps costs down. It lacks water resistance certification. Despite these trade-offs, the phone delivers solid performance for everyday tasks.
Users seeking an affordable Android option with a headphone jack should consider the Galaxy A15 5G. It balances features and price effectively in the budget phone market.
Most Cost-Effective Gaming Smartphone
RedMagic 9 Pro
The RedMagic 9 Pro offers high-end gaming features at a competitive price. It boasts a powerful processor for smooth gameplay and custom gaming software for enhanced control. The device includes a fast charger and long-lasting battery, ideal for extended gaming sessions.
Key features:
- Powerful performance
- Gaming-specific software
- Rapid charging capability
- Extended battery life
Drawbacks:
- Lacks water resistance
- Audio quality could be improved
- Limited software updates
Top Gaming Smartphone
Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro Edition
The Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro Edition stands out as a powerful gaming device. It boasts impressive performance and long-lasting battery life. The included cooling fan helps maintain optimal temperatures during intense gaming sessions.
Its camera system competes well with other high-end phones. The device is both dust and water-resistant, adding durability. However, it comes with a high price tag and lacks mmWave 5G support.
The phone’s update policy is limited compared to some competitors. Despite these drawbacks, it remains a top choice for mobile gaming enthusiasts seeking peak performance.
Longest-Lasting Battery
Moto G Power 5G (2023)
The Moto G Power 5G (2023) offers impressive battery life. It features a large battery capacity that can last for days on a single charge. Users can enjoy extended screen time without frequent recharging.
The phone includes expandable storage options. This allows for more space to store photos, videos, and apps.
Its affordable price makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The main camera performs adequately for everyday use. However, the secondary cameras have some limitations.
While it lacks NFC and water resistance, the Moto G Power 5G (2023) delivers solid performance for its price range.
Top Pick for Stylus Enthusiasts
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023)
The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) offers a unique blend of features for stylus lovers. Its built-in pen enables precise input and note-taking. The device boasts a large, vibrant screen that complements stylus use. Performance is reliable, handling everyday tasks with ease. Battery life impresses, lasting through a full day of use.
Charging speed is limited to 10W. Camera quality falls short of expectations. Software updates may be infrequent. Despite these drawbacks, the Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) remains a solid choice for users seeking a phone with an integrated stylus.
Why Are Headphone Jacks Disappearing from Modern Smartphones?
The 3.5mm headphone jack, once a standard feature on mobile devices, is becoming increasingly rare on high-end smartphones. This trend started with Apple’s iPhone 7 in 2016 and has since spread to many Android manufacturers.
Several factors contribute to this shift:
- Space savings: Removing the jack frees up valuable internal space for larger batteries or new components.
- Water resistance: Fewer ports make it easier to waterproof devices.
- Wireless technology push: Manufacturers want to encourage the adoption of Bluetooth headphones.
- Cost reduction: Eliminating the jack can slightly lower production costs.
Some Android phones, like the Galaxy S10, kept the headphone jack longer than others. However, even Samsung has now removed it from most of its flagship models.
Budget-friendly options still exist. Many sub-$400 phones retain the 3.5mm jack, recognizing that users in this price range may prefer wired headphones.
For those missing the jack, alternatives include:
- USB-C or Lightning port adapters
- Bluetooth wireless headphones
- USB-C or Lightning wired headphones
The latest Android 14 and iPhone SE models do not include headphone jacks, solidifying this trend across both major mobile platforms.
Can You Connect USB-C Headphones to Phones Without Headphone Jacks?
USB-C headphones offer a solution for phones lacking traditional 3.5mm audio ports. While not as common as their wireless counterparts, USB-C headphones are available from some manufacturers. Samsung’s AKG-branded options and Apple’s USB-C EarPods are examples of such products.
For those preferring their existing headphones, 3.5mm-to-USB-C adapters provide compatibility. These small dongles allow standard headphones to connect to USB-C ports. Another option is a portable digital-to-analog converter (DAC), which can improve audio quality.
It’s important to note that using the USB-C port for audio may limit simultaneous charging. Users can work around this by using wireless charging while listening to music.
Top Picks for Audio Enthusiasts
- Wireless earbuds under $100
- High-quality USB-C headphones
- Reliable 3.5mm-to-USB-C adapters
These options cater to various preferences and budgets. Wireless earbuds offer convenience, while USB-C headphones provide a direct connection. Adapters allow continued use of favorite 3.5mm headphones with newer devices.
Common Questions About Phones with Headphone Jacks
Top Smartphones with Headphone Jacks in 2025
Several smartphones still offer headphone jacks in 2025. The Sony Xperia 1 V stands out for its audio quality. The Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra combines flagship features with a 3.5mm port. Google’s Pixel 5a 5G provides a more budget-friendly option with this feature.
Samsung Models with Headphone Jacks
Samsung has largely moved away from headphone jacks in its flagship lines. However, some mid-range models like the Galaxy A13 5G and A32 5G still include this feature. These phones offer a balance of modern features and traditional audio connectivity.
Gaming Phones with Headphone Jacks
The Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro Edition is a powerful gaming phone that includes a 3.5mm headphone jack. It offers high-end performance for gamers who prefer wired audio options. This device combines gaming-specific features with the convenience of a headphone jack.
Recent Smartphones Reintroducing Headphone Jacks
Few major manufacturers have reintroduced headphone jacks to their flagship lines. Most phones with this feature are either continuing models from previous years or new mid-range devices. The trend of removing headphone jacks remains strong among high-end smartphones.
High-End Smartphones with Headphone Jacks
The Sony Xperia 1 V is a premium smartphone that retains the headphone jack. It offers top-tier specs alongside this traditional audio port. The Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra also fits in this category, providing flagship features with a 3.5mm jack.
Impact of Headphone Jacks on Smartphone Audio Quality
Phones with headphone jacks can offer high-quality audio output. They allow direct analog connections to headphones, potentially reducing interference. However, many modern phones without jacks use high-quality DACs in their USB-C adapters, providing comparable audio quality.
