The best phones with a headphone jack in 2024 [Buyers guide]
Sometimes, it's really difficult to let go of the past. In some instances, that can really weigh you down and make you feel down. In others though, you just end up getting angry, because said past is actually useful to have around!
And just in case that wasn't obvious, I'm talking about the 3,5mm headphone jack and how Apple decided that we don't need that anymore. Sure, wireless Bluetooth audio tech has come a long way and that's great. But sometimes, you just need a wired connection, man.
I mean, how else am I going to turn my phone into a portable mini digital audio workstation? I can't do that with my Pixel 6a, so I have to carry around a Sony XZ Premium too.
So what can we do? Well, we can support the brands that still offer phones with headphone jacks. Because such phones still exist, even at the cusp of 2024! If you're wondering what the best phones in the category are, then you've come to the right place. Check out our selection below!
Here's what the best phones with a headphone jack in 2023 are:
- Asus Zenfone 10 — The latest and greatest from Zenfone in a comfortable form factor.
- Asus Zenfone 9 — The last gen of the above, still just as awesome!
- Moto G 5G Stylus (2022) — A solid rival to the Galaxy S23 Ultra, which is worth your time.
- Moto G 5G — A midrange phone from Motorola that represents the word "reliable".
- Moto G Play — A budget phone with a 3,5mm jack worth your time? You bet!
- ROG Phone 7 — The gaming phone. Yes, it has RGB.
- Sony Xperia 1 V — Sony's cinematography-oriented flagship, which also happens to be a total powerhouse.
- Sony Xperia PRO-I — Sony's even more hardcore cinematography-photography-nerd mega-flagship. Just in case.
Asus Zenfone 10
If you want a compact phone that doesn't compromise in terms of power and design, which also happens to offer a 3,5mm jack, then the Zenfone 10 is your optimal choice. There are very, very few other phones that can rival the banger of a smallphone that is the Zenfone 10. If you haven't decided on a new flagship yet, then this one is absolutely worth your time.
Asus Zenfone 9
Well now. You've guessed it. It's like the one above, but just one year older. Does that make it worse? Not a bit! Basically, if you find a great deal for the Zenfone 9, you should go for it. But if you already have the 9, then upgrading to the 10 isn't really mandatory. Both phones are awesome and we totally understand anyone who'd want to get either of them.
Moto G 5G Stylus (2022)
Moto is not one to take away seemingly basic features, at least as much as the likes of Apple and Samsung are inclined to do. The 2022 G Stylus from Moto is a very feature-packed smartphone, with its included stylus, reminiscent of the Galaxy Note, being the main one. But of course, we can't overlook the fair, mid-range price, the huge 120Hz display, SD card slot, and yes - the headphone jack we're getting here.
Moto G 5G (2022)
Motorola makes tons of phones and this is its midrange offering of 2022. Goal of the product? To be the most reliable daily driver ever. You need something done? The G 5G can handle it, without any issues. And it even has some sweet bonuses on top... Such as a 3,5mm headphone jack.
Moto G Play (2023)
If you are here, then maybe you are looking for a budget phone that also happens to offer a 3,5mm headphone jack. And if you nodded to that statement, then meet the Moto G Play (2023), because it's probably the best one from the category. It also has a very sturdy battery and a great design, which is just a neat bonus.
Asus ROG Phone 7
Here is the thing: gamers need great sound so that they can be optimal in what they do best. But that doesn't mean that you need to be a gamer in order to appreciate the sound quality. As long as you can afford the extra cost and don't mind the extravagant design, this is certainly one of the best phones you can get. Oh, and it just so happens to have a 3,5mm headphone jack.
Sony Xperia 1 V
4K screen! Elaborate camera apps! A different form factor! Yes. This one is certainly not for everyone. But it is still a powerhouse with tons of features, some of which will be much appreciated by the right people. If you are itching to cosplay as a photographer via your phone, then this may possibly be the best pick for you. As long as you can afford it.
Sony Xperia PRO-I
While everyone can enjoy Sony's latest flagship, the PRO-I is here to outdo it. As in: this one is not for everyone. But if you decide to get it, we can't really blame you. It's expensive, feature-rich, really unique and... with a headphone jack.
Looking for something else?
Does your smartphone have a headphone jack, and do you need it, or do you think it's time to let it go and move on?
Also check out: the Best phones to buy right now, if you've somehow managed to get over the lack of a headphone jack. You monster.
Things that are NOT allowed: