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The best phone for great headphones depends first on how they connect. For analog wired headphones, a built-in 3.5 mm jack is the simplest route; without one, use compatible USB-C headphones or a USB-C-to-3.5 mm adapter that supports digital-to-analog conversion. For Bluetooth headphones, the phone and headphones need to share the codec you want. None of those connection features alone proves that a phone will sound better, or drive every demanding wired headphone well.
Start with the headphones you already own
“Best headphone audio” can mean several different things: keeping an existing wired setup, using wired headphones through a portable DAC, or pairing Bluetooth headphones with a preferred codec. Decide which applies before comparing phones. A jack-equipped model avoids a separate adapter for ordinary analog wired headphones; a phone without a jack can still work, but compatibility and extra equipment matter.
- Analog wired headphones: Look for a 3.5 mm jack, or confirm that the phone supports the USB-C audio accessory or DAC adapter you plan to use.
- USB-C headphones: Check compatibility for your exact phone and the headphone’s functions, rather than assuming any USB-C headset will work.
- Bluetooth headphones: Confirm that both phone and headphones support the desired codec. Codec names describe compatibility, not a guaranteed audible advantage.
Phones with a 3.5 mm headphone jack
ASUS Zenfone 12 Ultra
ASUS’s Hong Kong specifications list a 3.5 mm headphone jack and high-resolution audio output on the Zenfone 12 Ultra. That makes it a concrete model to investigate if you want to plug in analog headphones directly. The cited page is regional: it does not establish local stock, price, carrier compatibility, warranty, or availability elsewhere. Check the specification for the exact regional model before buying. ASUS Hong Kong’s Zenfone 12 Ultra specifications.
Sony Xperia phones
Sony’s Xperia audio overview describes the 3.5 mm jack as a familiar Xperia feature and discusses a DAC/amplifier for headphones. It is useful context for considering the line, but it is not a model-by-model guide to current availability or a comparative listening test. Verify the jack and other audio specifications on the exact Xperia model sold in your market. Sony’s Xperia audio overview.
#1 Best Overall
- WORLD’S BEST IN-EAR ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION — Removes up to 2x more unwanted noise than AirPods Pro 2* so you can stay fully immersed in the moment.*
- BREAKTHROUGH AUDIO PERFORMANCE — Experience breathtaking, three-dimensional audio with AirPods Pro 3. A new acoustic architecture delivers transformed bass, detailed clarity so you can hear every instrument, and stunningly vivid vocals.
- HEART RATE SENSING — Built-in heart rate sensing lets you track your heart rate and calories burned for up to 50 different workout types.* With iPhone, you will have access to the Move ring, step count, and the new Workout Buddy,* powered by Apple Intelligence.*
- LIVE TRANSLATION — Communicate across language barriers using Live Translation,* enabled by Apple Intelligence.*
- EXTENDED BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 8 hours of listening time with Active Noise Cancellation on a single charge. Or up to 10 hours in Transparency using the Hearing Aid feature.*
Using wired headphones with a phone that lacks a jack
Choose an adapter that supports DAC conversion
A USB-C connector by itself does not guarantee that a passive USB-C-to-3.5 mm adapter will work. Samsung’s UK support guidance warns that the adapter may need DAC compatibility to connect analog headphones. Check the adapter’s specifications and compatibility with your phone before purchase; the physical fit alone is not enough. Samsung UK’s DAC adapter guidance.
An external DAC can add a separate device and take up the phone’s USB-C port while in use. That is a practical trade-off if you need the port for charging. The available product information here does not establish comparative output power for current phones or adapters, so it cannot show that any one candidate will drive every hard-to-drive headphone satisfactorily.
Rank #2
- JBL Deep Bass Sound: Get the most from your mixes with high-quality audio from secure, reliable earbuds with 8mm drivers featuring JBL Deep Bass Sound
- Comfortable fit: The ergonomic, stick-closed design of the JBL Vibe Beam fits so comfortably you may forget you're wearing them. The closed design excludes external sounds, enhancing the bass performance
- Up to 32 (8h + 24h) hours of battery life and speed charging: With 8 hours of battery life in the earbuds and 24 in the case, the JBL Vibe Beam provide all-day audio. When you need more power, you can speed charge an extra two hours in just 10 minutes.
- Hands-free calls with VoiceAware: When you're making hands-free stereo calls on the go, VoiceAware lets you balance how much of your own voice you hear while talking with others
- Water and dust resistant: From the beach to the bike trail, the IP54-certified earbuds and IPX2 charging case are water and dust resistant for all-day experiences
USB-C headphones are another route
USB-C headphones avoid a separate 3.5 mm adapter, but compatibility can vary by phone and by feature. JBL’s Tune 520C compatibility chart illustrates why it is worth checking the headphone manufacturer’s list for the exact phone model instead of treating USB-C as universally interchangeable. JBL’s Tune 520C compatibility chart.
Pixel compatibility includes older jack-equipped models
Google’s Pixel support page covers USB-C audio accessories and Bluetooth, and identifies the Pixel 3a, Pixel 4a, and Pixel 4a (5G) as Pixel models with a 3.5 mm jack. These are compatibility details for those specific older models, not a recommendation that they are current or suitable purchases. Google’s Pixel audio accessory guidance.
Rank #3
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: With up to 50-hour battery life and quick charging, you’ll have enough power for multi-day road trips and long festival weekends.(USB Type-C Cable included)
- HIGH QUALITY SOUND: Great sound quality customizable to your music preference with EQ Custom on the Sony | Headphones Connect App.
- LIGHT & COMFORTABLE: The lightweight build and swivel earcups gently slip on and off, while the adjustable headband, cushion and soft ear pads give you all-day comfort.
- CRYSTAL CLEAR CALLS: A built-in microphone provides you with hands-free calling. No need to even take your phone from your pocket.
- MULTIPOINT CONNECTION: Quickly switch between two devices at once.
Bluetooth codecs: match both devices, then compare the whole phone
A codec only helps when both ends of the Bluetooth connection support it. For example, ASUS lists LDAC and aptX variants in the Zenfone 9 specifications; that establishes listed support for that model, not a universal advantage over another phone or a guarantee of sound quality with every headphone. Check the exact phone and headphone specifications together. ASUS Global’s Zenfone 9 specifications.
Do not rank phones by codec labels alone. The cited material does not provide controlled, comparable listening tests across these phones, and codec support is not a substitute for choosing headphones you like or checking the whole device.
Rank #4
- 65 Hours Playtime: Low power consumption technology applied, BERIBES bluetooth headphones with built-in 500mAh battery can continually play more than 65 hours, standby more than 950 hours after one fully charge. By included 3.5mm audio cable, the wireless headphones over ear can be easily switched to wired mode when powers off. No power shortage problem anymore.
- Optional 6 Music Modes: Adopted most advanced dual 40mm dynamic sound unit and 6 EQ modes, BERIBES updated headphones wireless bluetooth black were born for audiophiles. Simply switch the headphone between balanced sound, extra powerful bass and mid treble enhancement modes. No matter you prefer rock, Jazz, Rhythm & Blues or classic music, BERIBES has always been committed to providing our customers with good sound quality as the focal point of our engineering.
- All Day Comfort: Made by premium materials, 0.38lb BERIBES over the ear headphones wireless bluetooth for work are the most lightweight headphones in the market. Adjustable headband makes it easy to fit all sizes heads without pains. Softer and more comfortable memory protein earmuffs protect your ears in long term using.
- Latest Bluetooth 6.0 and Microphone: Carrying latest Bluetooth 6.0 chip, after booting, 1-3 seconds to quickly pair bluetooth. Beribes bluetooth headphones with microphone has faster and more stable transmitter range up to 33ft. Two smart devices can be connected to Beribes over-ear headphones at the same time, makes you able to pick up a call from your phones when watching movie on your pad without switching.（There are updates for both the old and new Bluetooth versions, but this will not affect the quality of the product or its normal use.）
- Packaging Component: Package include a Foldable Deep Bass Headphone, 3.5MM Audio Cable, Type-c Charging Cable and User Manual.
A practical checklist before buying
- Confirm the connection. Check whether the exact regional phone has a 3.5 mm jack, supports your USB-C headphones, or can use your intended DAC adapter.
- Check both ends of a wireless pairing. Match Bluetooth codec support on the phone and headphones rather than relying on one device’s list.
- Consider the headphones’ demands. If your wired headphones are hard to drive, seek reliable output information for the exact phone and any external DAC/amp you may use; the cited sources do not establish comparative phone output power.
- Assess everyday fit. Compare price, size, battery life, camera, performance, carrier bands, warranty, and software-support commitments for the market where you will use the phone.
- Weigh convenience. A built-in jack removes one item to carry. An adapter or external DAC adds equipment and may occupy the charging port.
Why there is no dependable “best everywhere” pick
Availability, prices, cellular bands, warranty, and software support vary by country and model variant. The Zenfone 12 Ultra is a useful jack-equipped example in ASUS’s Hong Kong specifications, but that regional page does not establish it as the best purchase globally. Treat it and other named models as options to verify locally, not universal rankings. The cited sources also do not provide comparable listening tests that would support declaring one phone’s headphone sound superior.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- REBUILT FOR COMFORT — AirPods 4 have been redesigned for exceptional all-day comfort and greater stability. With a refined contour, shorter stem, and quick-press controls for music or calls.
- PERSONALIZED SPATIAL AUDIO — Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking places sound all around you, creating a theater-like listening experience for music, TV shows, movies, games, and more.*
- IMPROVED SOUND AND CALL QUALITY — AirPods 4 feature the Apple-designed H2 chip. Voice Isolation improves the quality of phone calls in loud conditions. Using advanced computational audio, it reduces background noise while isolating and clarifying the sound of your voice for whomever you’re speaking to.*
- MAGICAL EXPERIENCE — Just say “Siri” or “Hey Siri” to play a song, make a call, or check your schedule.* And with Siri Interactions, now you can respond to Siri by simply nodding your head yes or shaking your head no.* Pair AirPods 4 by simply placing them near your device and tapping Connect on your screen.* Easily share a song or show between two sets of AirPods.* An optical in-ear sensor knows to play audio only when you’re wearing AirPods and pauses when you take them off. And you can track down your AirPods and Charging Case with the Find My app.*
- LONG BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge. And get up to 30 hours of total listening time using the case.*
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
