No headphone jack? Here's a smart solution
Your new iPhone doesn't have a headphone jack. Your trusty old headphones are sitting uselessly in the drawer. Frustrating. Apple is forcing you to use wireless solutions, but they can easily cost hundreds of euros. The simple adapter constantly gets lost among your belongings. And those AirPods everyone's talking about? Pricey gadgets you'd rather put off.
But here's what no one tells you: the lack of that connection is actually your opportunity to be smarter about audio . Not by immediately buying the latest gadgets, but by consciously choosing what truly suits you. From affordable accessories that solve the problem immediately to refurbished alternatives that are easy on your wallet—the solutions are surprisingly accessible. You just have to know where to look.
Useful links
- Refurbished iPhone collection - Discover iPhones with different connection options
- AirPods Collection - Wireless audio solutions for your iPhone
- iPhone Accessories - Adapters and Other Helpful Tools
Why did the headphone jack disappear anyway?
Since the iPhone 7 in 2016, every new iPhone has omitted the familiar 3.5mm jack. Apple's decision was controversial at the time, but for practical reasons. The space freed up was used for a larger battery, better speakers, and waterproofing. The device became thinner, and the Taptic Engine gained more space for haptic feedback.
For users, however, this meant a sudden change. Your old headphones no longer worked directly. The included EarPods now had a Lightning connector. And that tiny adapter? You lost it in your belongings in no time.
Instantly working solutions without hassle
The fastest way to keep using your existing headphones is with a Lightning to 3.5mm adapter. This small dongle costs between €10 and €15 and solves the problem immediately. However, be careful with the quality; cheap versions can add noise or break quickly.
A smarter option is headphones with a Lightning connector. These models connect directly without an adapter. They draw power from your iPhone for noise cancellation or extra bass boost. The downside: they only work with Apple devices.
USB-C headphones are a great option for those who frequently switch between devices. Newer iPads and MacBooks already have this connection. With a USB-C to Lightning adapter, you can also use them on your iPhone.
Wireless alternatives: freedom has its price
Bluetooth headphones are the obvious choice. They work with all modern devices, not just Apple. Prices vary widely: from €30 for basic earbuds to €400 for top-of-the-line noise-canceling models.
When choosing wireless audio, there are several things to consider:
- Battery life: varies from 5 to 40 hours depending on model and usage
- Codec support: AAC works best with iPhone, aptX is mainly for Android
- Latency: important when watching video or gaming, modern chips minimize delay
- Range: Standard 10 meters, but walls and obstacles limit this
AirPods: The Apple experience without wires
AirPods are specifically designed for the Apple ecosystem. They seamlessly connect between your iPhone, iPad, and Mac. The H1 or H2 chip ensures a stable connection and long battery life. Spatial Audio with head tracking creates a cinematic experience with movies.
The different models each have their strengths. The regular AirPods (3rd generation) offer 6 hours of listening time and spatial audio. The Pro version adds active noise cancellation and adapts to your ear shape with silicone tips. The Max is an over-ear headphone with superior sound quality and 20 hours of battery life.
Refurbished AirPods offer a smart compromise. They cost 30 to 40 percent less than new. The battery is checked and replaced if necessary. You get the same warranty as new AirPods. The only difference is the packaging.
Bluetooth Receivers: Your Old Headphones Go Wireless
A Bluetooth receiver turns any wired headphone into a wireless one. These small devices cost between €15 and €50. You plug in your headphones and connect them to your iPhone via Bluetooth.
Popular models like the FiiO BTR3K or Shanling UP4 even offer better sound quality than the built-in headphone amplifier in older iPhones. They support Hi-Res Audio codecs and have a more powerful amplifier for demanding headphones.
Specific scenarios and their best solutions
For athletes, truly wireless earbuds are ideal. No cables to get in the way while running. Models with ear hooks stay in place better during intense exercise. Waterproofing (IPX4 or higher) is essential when sweating.
Commuters benefit from noise-canceling headphones. These muffle the sound of trains and buses. Over-ear models provide better isolation than in-ear models, but are less compact. A foldable design fits in your bag.
Home workers benefit from headphones with good microphones. AirPods Pro and many Bluetooth headsets have beamforming technology that filters out background noise. Low latency is crucial for video calls.
Audiophiles opt for wired solutions with an external DAC (digital-to-analog converter). These devices significantly improve sound quality. They work via Lightning or wirelessly with aptX HD.
Practical tips for daily use
Keep your adapter in a fixed location. Attach it to your keychain or leave it permanently connected to your headphones. Consider buying multiple adapters for different locations.
Battery management is important for wireless headphones. Charge them overnight, just like you would your phone. Many models offer fast charging: a 10-minute charge provides hours of listening pleasure. Turn off noise canceling when not needed for longer battery life.
Test the fit thoroughly before purchasing. Especially with in-ear headphones, the right eartips make a huge difference in comfort and sound quality. Silicone eartips provide better insulation, while foam eartips are more comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Future perspectives and sustainable choices
The wireless trend continues. More and more manufacturers are omitting the headphone jack. Investing in good wireless audio is therefore wise. Choose timeless models with replaceable components like ear cushions or cables.
Refurbished products are not only more affordable but also more sustainable. You prevent electronic waste and conserve resources. The lifespan of professionally refurbished devices is comparable to new ones.
When purchasing, be sure to check for update options. Headphones with firmware updates stay current longer. New features and improvements are added later. Apple's AirPods regularly receive new features via iOS updates.
Conclusion: a suitable solution for every budget
The lack of a headphone jack on your iPhone isn't a problem. From simple adapters to refurbished AirPods , there's a suitable solution for every budget. The cheapest fix is a ten-euro adapter; the most future-proof choice is investing in wireless audio.
Whatever you choose, don't be pressured into hasty purchases . Test what suits your needs first. And consider refurbished accessories —they work perfectly, cost less, and are better for the environment.
