With the launch of the iPhone 16, selecting the right headphones has become increasingly important for enhancing your audio experience. Unfortunately, you’re not getting a 3.5mm headphone jack back with the latest iPhone. Still, excellent options are available, whether you prefer Bluetooth earbuds for convenience or wired USB-C earbuds for audio fidelity. In this guide, we’ll explore the best Bluetooth and wired USB-C options for your iPhone 16, highlighting top picks and essential features.
Bluetooth True Wireless Earbuds
1. AirPods Pro
If want to listen to music with your iPhone, chances are you’re thinking about the AirPods Pro. The new iPhone releases alongside the AirPods 4, so you already know they’re one of the best options available. While it remains to be seen what upgrades in audio quality the new AirPods make, Apple is already touting its new noise-canceling features. Automatic noise control for different listening environments could be a new reason for AirPods to dominate the true wireless market, potentially rivaling Sony’s industry-leading technology. With seamless integration with iPhone, and spatial audio, AirPods Pro remains on the cutting edge.
2. Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4
Those looking for Bluetooth earphones outside of popular name brands can look at the Sennheiser Momentum 4 True Wireless. If you need wireless earbuds with your new iPhone but are looking for something with better sound quality, the Momentum 4 is the best fit. The Momentum 4 has great bass detail and instrument fidelity, with tons of personalization through EQ. You also get a long battery life that lasts up to 28 hours with the charging case. While it might not have spatial audio, or feature the same level of integration as the AirPods, the Momentum True Wireless 4 is still of great quality.
The closest thing to the AirPod Pro without being the AirPods Pro is probably the WF-1000XM5. They have many similar features to the AirPods, but their noise-canceling is superior, and the sound has a lot more personalization. Its adaptive noise canceling is the best you can get, with industry-leading tech that quiets any obstructive sound. They’re also very lightweight and comfortable to wear for many hours of listening. You won’t be able to use LDAC with the iPhone 16, but the sound quality should still be more impressive than most true wireless earphones on the market.
Wired USB-C Earphones
With the iPhone 16’s shift away from the traditional 3.5mm headphone jack, USB-C earphones are the way to go for wired audio solutions.
The simplest pair of USB-C earphones you can get is the Strauss & Wagner EM8C. While they may lack sophistication, the EM8C is a surprising bang for your buck. It offers a snug fit with great isolation to really immerse you in your music. There are some surprisingly vibrant details you can pick out in its sound signature that complement the overall tuning of the EM8C. If you’re looking for an affordable pair of earbuds for your new iPhone 16, you can’t go wrong with the EM8C.
2. Moondrop Jiu
Moondrop has a great selection of affordable hi-fi IEMs. The JIU is one of their most inexpensive USB-C options, with a design made for audiophiles for accurate and clear sound reproduction. Its tuning has a response both audiophiles and casual listeners will enjoy. It has a look that distinguishes itself from everyday earphones you’ll see.
3. Meze Alba
While not strictly USB-C, the Meze Alba comes supplied with its own USB-C dongle. Not only is the Meze Alba an affordable IEM, but its DAC is much more advanced than most other USB-C earphones. With the Alba, you’ll be getting the most out of Apple Music’s lossless capabilities, combining the DAC with the Alba’s rich and warm sound profile. It also has a premium design that isn’t unlike IEMs you’ll find in the thousand-dollar region.
Compare the ranking of various headphones, earbuds and in-ear monitors using our tools.
Discuss this, and much more, over on our forum.
---MAJORHIFI may receive commissions from retail offers.
