Smartphones, tablets, and laptops used to have an auxiliary (AUX) port so we could listen to music and watch movies without bothering friends and family around us. With most manufacturers opting to ditch the auxiliary port and replace it with a USB-C port, you can either switch to wireless headphones and speakers or continue to use wired devices with the help of an AUX adapter. That’s not all they’re used for, though. Other types of AUX adapters come with Bluetooth technology and are fitted to a car’s radio, for example, so you can make and take calls hands-free and stay safe on the road. Our team has reviewed some of the best AUX adapters and compiled a list of the best-of-the-best. We chose these specific products because they are easy to use, durable, and connect to any device. There’s no reason why you can’t continue to use wired headphones!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an AUX port?
An AUX port, or an auxiliary port, is a type of standard communications port on a smartphone, headphone, tablet, laptop, or speaker that accommodates audio signals. An AUX port is also often referred to as the audio jack or the 3.5 mm audio input. With the help of an audio cable, you can connect any two devices together to transmit and receive audio. Connect your speakers to your smartphone and blast music at parties, or connect a microphone and karaoke the night away.
Why are manufacturers removing AUX ports from new devices?
Some smartphone manufacturers claim that the AUX port takes a lot of real estate and is becoming useless with the introduction of Bluetooth technology. While this may be true, it is also a way for manufacturers to force consumers to buy new wireless earbuds, headphones, and speakers. Two or three years down the line, we will all be forced to switch to wireless devices, but until then, we can use an AUX adapter and continue to use our favorite wired devices.
Buying Guide
AUX adapters are increasing in popularity because most smartphones do not have audio jacks. But how do you know which adapter works best for your needs? We will go through the different types of AUX adapters and what features to look for when shopping for AUX adapters.
- Type: There are many types of AUX adapters to cater to different needs. The main types of AUX adapters are categorized into AUX Bluetooth adapters, USB-C to AUX adapters, and AUX extension cables.
- AUX Bluetooth adapters allow devices without Bluetooth connectivity to connect to Bluetooth devices. For example, you can plug an AUX Bluetooth adapter into your car radio’s audio jack and stream music directly from any smartphone. You will also be able to make and receive calls hands-free using the built-in microphone in the adapter and the car’s speakers. If your laptop or TV set does not have Bluetooth connectivity, an AUX Bluetooth adapter allows you to use wireless headphones, earbuds, and speakers to listen to music.
- USB-C to AUX adapters are fairly new devices and are becoming more popular because most new smartphones and laptops do not have a 3.5 mm input jack. Without an audio jack, users can not use their wired headphones or earbuds. You can either buy wireless headphones or buy a much cheaper USB-C to AUX adapter. This adapter plugs into the charging port of a smartphone and allows the user to connect any wired device of their choice.
- AUX extension cables are not adapters per se, but they allow users to extend the connectivity range of the audio jack on their laptops or smartphones. Just like an electrical extension, AUX extensions allow you to sit further away from your device while still listening to music or watching your favorite shows and movies. Just pick the length you need and you are all set.
- Compatibility: When it comes to compatibility, AUX extension cables are universally compatible with Windows, Android, MacBooks, and iOS devices like iPhones and iPads. When it comes to AUX USB adapters and USB-C to AUX adapters, users should check for compatibility with their devices. Read the label provided by the manufacturer and ensure that the adapter is compatible with your device.
- Durability: Shielded and nylon-braided cables are very durable and can be twisted and flexed without damaging them. Aluminum or gold-plated connectors are sturdy and allow for excellent audio quality. Relief support on the connectors means you can plug and unplug the cable thousands of times without breaking it.
COMSOON AUX Adapter
Best Overall
For Safer Journeys
This one connects to any car radio or home stereo to turn it into a Bluetooth-enabled device. Make and receive calls while driving, or listen to music from your smartphone or tablet!
Why We Love It:
- Provides a stable Bluetooth connection with no lags or cuts
- Cancels out ambient noise like wind and traffic for crystal clear phone calls
- Lasts for up to 16 hours on a single charge and can be fully charged in under 3 hours
- Has a built-in microphone and one button to answer and end calls
- Can be paired with two devices and automatically reconnects when devices are in range
Something to Consider:
- Audio feedback from the device like “Connected” and “low battery” is quite loud and cannot be turned down
TALK WORKS AUX Adapter
Runner Up
Superior Audio Quality
These are tested to withstand up to 25,000 bends without breaking or deforming. Connect your smartphone or an audio player to your car’s stereo or home theater and play your favorite tracks.
Why We Love It:
- Heavy-duty metallic connectors on both ends that are built to last
- Pack of two allows you to keep one in the car and one at home
- Each cable is 6 feet long for added freedom of movement
- Compatible with any smartphone or device that has a 3.5 mm audio jack
Something to Consider:
- The outer material may attract dust and lint
ARTEK AUX Adapter
Contender
Universal Android Compatibility
This option is compatible with all Android smartphones and tablets that do not have an auxiliary port. Just plug it into the charging port and connect your wired headphones or speakers with ease.
Why We Love It:
- Braided cord with durable aluminum connectors for added longevity
- Has an internal audio chip that delivers crystal clear sound when making phone calls
- Can be bent and flexed without comprising the audio quality
- Plug-and-play connectivity does not require the installation of additional drivers or software
Something to Consider:
- May cause some interference issues on some old devices
MCSPER AUX Adapter
Honorable Mention
Noise Reduction Technology
This compact option enables you to connect a pair of headphones or a speaker to listen to music and take and receive calls with crystal clarity. It produces high-fidelity sounds thanks to its noise reduction technology.
Why We Love It:
- Shielded and nylon-braided cable that is engineered to be bent and flexed
- Aluminum-alloy connectors with rubber strain relief supports for infinite plugs and unplugs
- Compatible with most Android smartphones and tablets on the market
- Portable size that fits easily into any pocket or backpack
Something to Consider:
- The microphone may not work for calls on certain smartphone models
JXMOX AUX Adapter
Recommended
Plug and Play
This option is not only robust and durable but also plug-and-play. It does not require the installation of drivers or software to work and is compatible with most Android and iOS devices.
Why We Love It:
- Enameled copper wires with nylon braided shielding withstand up to 12,000 bends
- 24K gold-plated connector and aluminum casing for superior durability
- Built-in noise-reduction chip for high-definition audio quality
- Available in a pack of two, so you always have a spare
Something to Consider:
- The sound it produces is a tad lower than other adapters on our list
