Review: Apple's USB-C Audio Adapter

Headphones & Portable Speakers

Apple’s USB-C Audio Adapter allows a user to connect wired headphones and speakers to an iPhone or iPad with USB-C. It costs approximately $10 and this makes it convenient for portable audio setup while walking, commuting or office work. It works well with wired earbuds and large headphones, which are not audiophile quality.

  • On portable speakers, wired audio does provide a discernible difference from Bluetooth; however, I see it is more convenient to stick to Bluetooth in case a call arrives. I haven’t tested this product on large speakers, but in my opinion, a USB DAC is a better option for that job.

  • Using the adapter with headphones does provide better quality than listening with Bluetooth, particularly with services that feature lossless audio quality. I tested this adapter with Apple Music and can say I enjoyed the quality of the listening experience more than with Bluetooth.

  • Listening to Lossless Digital Audio Files is also a great experience. I ripped some of my CD Disc collection (transfer from CD to digital file) and can say the listening experience on wired headphones is excellent.

  • This adapter also works with laptops. I tested it with a MacBook Air M2.

Overall, this is a great and budget friendly product that helps you use the headphones you already have with new equipment like an iPhone 15.