Best Lightning Headphones

Several headphone makers are rushing to come out with Lightning headphones for the new iPhone models. These new Lightning connector headphones offer the possibility of better sound quality (because the Lightning port is able to carry more data than the old headphone jack) and also a slimmer profile. Not every pair of Lightning headphones offers an in-line controller like the original Apple earbuds do, allowing you to play/pause and adjust volume up or down. But here are some of the best new Lightning headphones and earbuds with volume controllers and remotes available.

These lightning headphones are compatible with all current iPhone models including iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone X, iPhone Xs, iPhone Xr, iPhone SE, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, Phone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro max. You can also use them with iPads and iPad Pros.

1. Apple EarPods in-Ear Earbuds with Mic and Remote

If you want the classic, reliable experience of an Apple product, the traditional Apple EarPods are a great choice for use with the lightning port on your iPhone. They used to be included with every iPhone purchase, but now you have to buy them separately. Designed to comfortably fit your ear, these classic white earbuds also feature an in-line remote with a microphone to easily make clear phone calls or adjust the volume of your music on the go.

Works with all devices that have a lightning connector and support iOS 10 or later, including iPod touch, iPad, and iPhone.

2. MAXROCK Lightning Headphones for Sleep

If traditional earbuds are too uncomfortable for you, these soft silica gel tipped headphones from MAXROCK may be a great alternative. The soft earbuds create a noise-isolating experience, helping to block out background noise so you can clearly hear your music or podcasts. Advertised for wearing while sleeping, they’re great for listening to ASMR videos or guided meditations before bed. The in-line microphone and control remote allows you to adjust the volume or skip tracks without reaching for your phone.

These headphones are MFI certified to work with iPhones, iPads, and iPods.

Continue reading Best iPhone Lightning Headphones & Earbuds With Remote Controllers →

It’s easy to lose the Apple Lightning cable earbuds that come with your iPhone, but fear not: there are plenty of Lightning cable replacement earbuds and headphones available today. A lot of these earbuds are more affordable than Apple earpods, plus they come in cool colors and noise isolating design. Here is a rundown of some of the best replacement lightning cable earbuds & headphones on the market.

These lightning headphones are compatible with iPhone 8, XR, 11, and 11 Pro.

Shark Lightning Headphones Tear Resistant Cable with Volume Control Apple MFi Certified for use with iPhone, iPads, iPods

Not every pair of lightning earbuds offers a volume control like the original Apple earbuds, but these do. They’re also a distinctive blue color which makes them stand out from the original manufacturer headphones that come with your iPhone. These also have soft earbuds for noise isolation, which means you may find them more comfortable than other earbuds and they may sound better in loud environments. Works with iPhones, iPads & iPods.

Brightech Pure Lightning Earphones

Brightech offers a generally well-reviewed pair of Lightning connector earbuds in a sporty green color. They plug directly into the Lightning port on your iPhone, iPad or iPod and offer great sound and noise-canceling technology. They also offer a play/pause and volume adjustment control midway through the cable, just like the original Apple iPhone headphones do.

JBL Reflect Aware Lightning Earphones

JBL also offers a pricier earphone/earbud option with an Apple Lightning connector: the noise-canceling Reflect Aware Lightning Earphones, which also include a remote along the Lightning cord. The Reflect Aware is available in blue, black, teal, and red, and is only available for pre-order on their website with availability starting in May 2016.

Frequently asked questions about Lightning cable headphones

Will these work with any iPhone or iPad?

Yes, these will work with any iPhone or iPad new enough to have a Lightning port. It doesn’t matter if your iPhone or iPad also has a legacy 1/8th inch headphone jack– these will work as headphones regardless.

What are the advantages of Lightning cable headphones vs regular headphones with a 1/8th inch jack?

Lightning cable headphones allow for devices to be built thinner, and they also can provide advanced noise-canceling technology and better waterproofing. Read more about the pros & cons of Lightning cable headphones here.

Can I get larger over-ear headphones with a Lightning cable, or am I stuck with earbuds?

It’s not just lightning earbuds; you can get lightning cable over ear headphones too.