A few years ago, tech giants like Apple, Samsung, and Google boldly declared the death of the 3.5mm headphone jack. The future, they said, was wireless. And for a while, it seemed they were right—until now.
In 2025, the 3.5mm jack is making a quiet but confident return, especially in the world of high-end audio. Audiophile brands, niche smartphone makers, and even laptop manufacturers are starting to reintroduce the humble headphone port. So why the reversal? Is it just nostalgia—or is it pure practicality?
Let’s explore what’s really behind the comeback and why UK-based audiophiles and gearheads shopping at Audio Concierge are celebrating the revival.
🔊 A Short History of the Jack’s “Demise”
Back in 2016, Apple removed the 3.5mm jack from the iPhone 7. Other companies followed suit, claiming:
- Better water resistance
- Slimmer device design
- Push toward wireless innovation
It forced users to rely on dongles, adapters, and Bluetooth gear—often at the cost of sound quality and reliability.
🎧 Why the 3.5mm Jack Refuses to Die
Despite industry shifts, the 3.5mm jack never disappeared from audiophile gear. Here’s why it’s still a vital piece of the puzzle:
✅ 1. Universal Compatibility
Unlike proprietary connectors, the 3.5mm is universally accepted—across brands, regions, and generations of devices.
✅ 2. No Compression or Delay
Wired connections transmit full-resolution audio with zero latency, a must for gamers, musicians, and critical listeners.
✅ 3. No Battery Needed
Wireless headphones require charging; wired headphones do not. That’s reliability you can’t ignore.
✅ 4. Full Access to DAC and Amp Stacks
A high-end headphone deserves a quality signal chain. Devices like the Astell & Kern SP2000 and Chord Mojo 2 offer pristine 3.5mm (and balanced) outputs—because that's what real audio demands.
💡 Modern Devices That Still Support the Jack
Here’s where the 3.5mm port is still going strong in 2025:
- Digital Audio Players (DAPs): Nearly all models from Astell & Kern, FiiO, and Sony retain it.
- Laptops and PCs: Premium models include it for audio professionals.
- Portable DACs/Amp Combos: Like the Cayin C9, which includes both 3.5mm and balanced outputs.
- Studio Gear: Monitors, mixers, and audio interfaces still rely on analog ports.
🎵 Audiophile Gear with 3.5mm Output (Available at Audio Concierge UK)
- Chord Mojo 2: Dual headphone outs with unmatched portability.
- Cayin N8ii: DAP with tube mode and multiple analog outs.
- Astell & Kern SR35: Entry-level luxury DAP with full-size jack.
- iFi GO Bar: Tiny DAC with audiophile output quality.
Each of these proves that sound quality still trumps trend-following, especially in the high-end world.
🛍️ Where to Buy Audiophile Gear with a Jack
For UK audiophiles, Audio Concierge offers curated, world-class gear with proper analog outputs. No adapters, no compromises—just pure, reference-grade audio.
✅ Final Thoughts
The 3.5mm jack isn’t just a relic—it’s a symbol of audio integrity. It stands for simplicity, compatibility, and authenticity. While wireless has its place, the return of 3.5mm jack explained of this port signals a shift back toward sound quality over trends.
So whether you’re listening through a portable amp or an elite set of wired headphones, don’t underestimate the power of that little round port—it’s small, but mighty.