Let’s face it – you’re not here because you’re interested in the dynamics of the burgeoning adapter market. Either you’ve got a pair of headphones that you want to use on your iPhone, or are frustrated by the Lightning and wireless options on the market.
Whichever of these applies, you’ve come to the right place. Apple has stopped including an adapter in the box (despite still manufacturing one), so you’ll have to make a special purchase. For most people, the Lightning EarPods included in the box just won’t cut it, both for sound quality and comfort.
Fortunately, there are loads of options at various different price points. Here’s our round-up of the best on the market.
Best Lightning headphone jack adapters for iPhone 2020
Apple
This is the Apple adapter that comes in the box, so you may not need another, but then again it is pretty easy to lose. £9 isn’t too bad a price for an Apple product, even a tiny one like this. If you want a spare, you shouldn’t balk too much at getting this one.
Available directly from Apple for £9/US$9/AUD$15 or on Amazon where it can be slightly cheaper.
Belkin Lightning Audio + Charge Rockstar
This Belkin adapter solves the issue of being able to charge your phone while listening to music using headphones.
Beware, though – this doesn’t have a 3.5mm headphone jack, it’s just to plug in and charge via Lightning while using the bundled Lightning headphones. Pick it up from Apple for £34.95/39.99/AUD$59.95 or from Amazon.
Belkin does make another version with a 3.5mm jack for £29.99/ US$29.50.
Griffin iTrip Clip
This small Bluetooth clip is an excellent way around the headphone conundrum. It works with any headphones with a 3.5mm jack, and wirelessly transmits music from your iPhone 7 or 7 Plus and up to your ears.
It charges up via the included micro USB cable and will give you between 4-6 hours playback. Pairing with your phone is easy and means you can charge your iPhone while listening to music wirelessly.
Pick it up from Amazon for £14.95. You can also buy the universal version for a more affordable £9.99.
It’s a good, affordable way to make existing headphones wireless without forking out for Bluetooth headphones.
Ugreen Lightning to 3.5mm Adapter
Here’s a budget option from Ugreen that costs less than £20/US$20. It’s Apple MFi certified and works with iPhone 7/7 Plus and up including the new iPhone SE 2020.
You also get added reinforcement from the nylon-braided cable, which should prevent breakage.
Author: Henry Burrell, Phones Editor
Henry is Tech Advisor’s Phones Editor, ensuring he and the team covers and reviews every smartphone worth knowing about for readers and viewers all over the world. He spends a lot of time moving between different handsets and shouting at WhatsApp to support multiple devices at once.