Manufacturers have been cutting off all cords as part of their increased focus on wireless headphones and earbuds, but that doesn't mean wired connections aren't an option anymore. Bluetooth headphones are great, unless you'd rather do without the latency and charging process, where USB-C headphones prove a great alternative to both. Just plug and play — and that's it.
Plug and play with these USB-C headphones
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Simple as it gets
These earbuds already stand out with the all-white finish, but they also have a booming sound that may come as a big surprise for earbuds coming in at this price. Plus, you get different ear tip sizes for the perfect fit to help you feel comfortable while listening to tunes.
When sound really matters
While the Momentum 4 Wireless are Bluetooth first, they work just like a pair of USB-C wired headphones. Even better, you can charge them while you're listening to music. A premium design and solid sound with active noise cancelation (ANC) mean you get a great package.
Samsung all over
Samsung won't throw them in a box with a phone or tablet anymore, but these AKG-tuned earbuds are more than capable of delivering good sound for what you're paying. There are no extra bells and whistles here — they just sound better than you'd expect.
They just work
These USB-C earbuds from Cooya won't take much out of your pocket, and they keep things simple by just focusing on the basics. You get an in-line microphone and media controls, along with a few ear tip sizes in the box to find the best fit.
Hi-res buds
The 1More Penta Driver P50 earbuds let you listen to tunes through either a 3.5mm headphone jack or USB-C connection. That kind of flexibility proves valuable considering these earbuds are tuned for hi-res tunes, while the ear hook design all but ensures they stay comfortably in place at all times.
Just Google it
Google stopped including earbuds back with the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL, but the Pixel USB-C Earbuds are still readily available and sound great. They'll fit right with the adjustable loop, and activating Google Assistant is only a button press away. The price is right, too.
No entanglements
TriLink put some thought into making these earphones, focusing on great sound through their certification for Hi-Res audio. It doesn't hurt that they also use a flat cable to avoid tangling, and if you can get them to fit right, they'll offer great passive noise isolation.
Going high-end
The Sonos Ace are expensive, but you get two cables to accommodate both USB-C and 3.5mm headphone jacks, letting you plug into a wide range of devices. You don't need to be in the Sonos ecosystem to enjoy what the Ace can do, which also includes hi-res audio where you can find it.
For gamers
There's a combination at work here that puts together Creative's SXFI tech for virtual surround sound, excellent audio performance, and an effective mic, which all creates a great set of gaming headphones. Use them on a console, computer, or try them out on a phone or tablet.
If you have to get something wired, opt for USB-C
USB-C audio still isn't as prevalent in 2024 as you might think, despite the headphone jack having already become a rare sight on mobile devices. A few options stick to the 3.5mm jack, but wireless headphones and wireless earbuds are the norm. This is usually fine, except Bluetooth can introduce latency, which may be acceptable if your phone can fill the gap on YouTube videos and streaming music, but not for gaming or live TV. That's where you can't compensate for latency unless you plug in.
So, the selection may be somewhat limited, but you can find a great set of headphones using the new connector.
The Palovue SoundFlow headphones are at the top of the list because they offer a sound that totally belies their budget price, making them easy to recommend. However, if your budget allows for spending more on over-ear headphones, give the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless or Sonos Ace a shot for their excellent sound, ANC, and premium design.
