Best Lightning Headphones of 2025

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

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Lightning headphones are a cutting-edge product that delivers high-quality audio through Apple's Lightning connector. These headphones are designed for the latest iPhones and iPads, which have eliminated the traditional 3.5mm headphone jack. With a Lightning connector, these headphones offer a more stable connection and improved sound quality. They come in various designs, including in-ear and over-ear options, and offer features such as noise-cancellation and integrated controls for volume, playback, and phone calls. Lightning headphones are a must-have accessory for Apple users who demand exceptional audio performance from their devices.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Apple EarPods with Lightning Connector Cover #TOP 1
Apple EarPods with Lightning Connector
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Beats urBeats3 Earphones - Black Cover #TOP 2
Beats urBeats3 Earphones - Black
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Wgluupk Lightning Headphones Cover #TOP 3
Wgluupk Lightning Headphones
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Lightning Headphones

#TOP 1

Apple EarPods with Lightning Connector

MMTN2AM/A
White
On Size Fits All
Apple EarPods with Lightning Connector Cover
Apple EarPods Headphones with Lightning Connector, Wired Ear Buds for iPhone with Built-in Remote to Control Music, Phone Calls, and Volume

The Apple EarPods with Lightning Connector are designed to provide a comfortable fit and superior sound quality. The built-in remote allows you to control music, phone calls, and volume with a pinch of the cord. The EarPods are compatible with all devices that have a lightning connector and support iOS 10 or later, including iPod touch, iPad, and iPhone. Customers have praised the sound quality, comfort, and durability of the EarPods.

What We Like
Great sound quality
Affordable
Built-in remote for easy control
Durable and long-lasting
Consistently crisp and clear microphone
#TOP 2

Beats urBeats3 Earphones - Black

MU992LL/A-cr
Matte Black
3.5m
Beats urBeats3 Earphones - Black Cover
Beats urBeats3 Earphones with Lightning Connector - Black (MU992LL/A) (Renewed)

The Beats urBeats3 Earbuds provide an outstanding audio experience with their carefully designed acoustic features. Enjoy all-day comfort thanks to their ergonomic shape, making them perfect for extended use. With a Lightning Connector, you can easily connect to your devices for seamless audio. Plus, the variety of ear tips ensures a snug fit that effectively blocks out unwanted noise, enhancing your listening pleasure. The tangle-free flat cable and magnetic earbuds make these earbuds easy to carry around, so you can enjoy your music wherever you go.

What We Like
Exceptional sound quality
Comfortable ergonomic design
Noise-isolating ear tips
Tangle-free cable
#TOP 3

Wgluupk Lightning Headphones

Wgluupk
White
Wgluupk Lightning Headphones Cover
2 Packs Lightning Headphones - NEW Upgrade- for iPhone Earphones Wired Nosie Reduction Built-in Microphone&Volume Control Headsets ,for iPhone Earbuds for iPhone 14/13/12/11/XR/XS/X/8/7/SE/Pro/Pro Max

The Wgluupk Earbuds are designed to enhance your listening experience with their impressive features. They offer universal compatibility with a wide range of iPhone models, ensuring you can enjoy high-quality sound on your device. With HD sound quality, you will appreciate the rich bass and clear treble, making every song feel alive. The built-in microphone and volume control add convenience, allowing you to manage calls and music without reaching for your phone. Additionally, their ergonomic design provides comfort and noise reduction, making them suitable for long use during work, study, or workouts.

What We Like
Universal compatibility
High-definition sound
Built-in microphone
Comfortable design
#TOP 4

Belkin SoundForm Headphones

G3H0001btWHT
White
One Size
Belkin SoundForm Headphones Cover
Belkin SoundForm Headphones - Wired In-Ear Earphones With Microphone- iPhone Headphones - Apple Headphones - Apple Wired Earbuds For iPhone, iPads & All Products With Lightning Connector (White)

Belkin SoundForm Headphones are wired earbuds that provide high-quality sound, supreme comfort and fit, and exceptional durability. These compact earphones are sweat and splash-resistant, making them ideal for all-weather use, as well as fitness or gym sessions. With a multi-control button, you can easily play, pause, skip tracks, change volume, or answer a phone call. The innovative design of these headphones provides a perfect fit to your ear for superior sound and noise isolation.

What We Like
Water-resistant and sweat-proof
Multi-control button for easy operation
Three differently-sized ear tips for a comfortable listening experience
Flat, lightweight design keeps the cable tangle-free
MFi-approved for added peace of mind
#TOP 5

PALOVUE Lightning Earbuds for iPhone

SweetFlow
Black
PALOVUE Lightning Earbuds for iPhone Cover
PALOVUE iPhone Headphones Earbuds Earphones wtih Lightning Connector Apple MFi Certified Compatible 14 13 12 11 Pro Max X XS XR 8 7 Plus with Microphone Controller SweetFlow Black

Enjoy outstanding sound quality and noise isolation with PALOVUE Lightning Earbuds. These MFi certified earphones feature an in-line controller with a MEMS microphone that allows you to accept and end calls, communicate with Siri, play music, change tracks, and adjust the volume. The 10-millimeter dynamic driver in each ear produces crisper mids and deeper bass. The in-ear design also helps minimize ambient noise. These earbuds are compatible with various Apple devices that have a lightning port, and they come with a reliable product quality and replacement policy.

What We Like
MFi certified and compatible with various Apple devices
All-in-one control with MEMS microphone
Outstanding sound quality and noise isolation
In-ear design helps minimize ambient noise
Reliable product quality and replacement policy
#TOP 6

Avantree L171 Wired Earbuds

ADHF-L171
Black
Standard
Avantree L171 Wired Earbuds Cover
Avantree L171 - Lightning Wired Earbuds with Microphone & in-Line Volume Control, Compatible with Older iPhone 14, 13, 12, 11 Models, MFi Certified, Sport Headphones with Ear Hook for Running

Experience the Avantree L171 Earbuds, a perfect companion for your active lifestyle. These wired earbuds, designed with a lightning jack, are compatible with all Lightning-enabled devices. With the earhook and soft eartips, the L171 provides a comfortable and secure fit, ensuring they stay in place during sports and other activities. The in-line controls let you easily play/pause your music, adjust the volume, skip/replay tracks, answer/reject calls, and activate your voice assistant without needing to reach for your phone. Additionally, the built-in microphone ensures crystal clear calls. Enjoy premium sound quality with the L171 earbuds, delivering well-balanced audio levels. Stay connected and enjoy your favorite tunes with the Avantree L171 Earbuds.

What We Like
Lightning Jack
Comfortable & Secure Fit
In-line Controls
#TOP 7

Avantree Resolve-L

ADHF-L191-BLK
Small Size
Avantree Resolve-L Cover
Avantree Resolve-L - Lightning Wired Open-Ear Earbuds with Mic & in-Line Volume Control, Designed for Small Ears, Compatible with iPhone 14, 13, 12, 11, 10 Models, Corded Headphones with Ear Hook

The Avantree Resolve-L Wired Earbuds offer a unique open-ear design that rests lightly on the outside of your ears, relieving ear fatigue and maximizing comfort. With this design, you can enjoy private listening to calls, music, podcasts, or videos while still being aware of your surroundings. The earhook provides a secure and comfortable fit, ensuring that the earphones stay in place even during movement. The Resolve-L also features convenient in-line controls, allowing you to easily manage your music, adjust the volume, skip tracks, answer calls, and activate your voice assistant without having to touch your phone. Additionally, the built-in microphone ensures crystal clear calls, perfect for those on the go. With Lightning compatibility, these earbuds provide high-quality audio without any distortion, making them compatible with most Lightning-enabled devices.

What We Like
Open-ear design
Comfortable fit
In-line controls
#TOP 8

Guguearth Lightning Headphones for iPhone

Guguearth
ME575b
Black
General
Guguearth Lightning Headphones for iPhone Cover
Guguearth Lightning Headphones for iPhone,MFi Certified in-Ear Lightning Earphones for iPhone,Magnetic Earbuds for iPhone with Mic Controller Compatible with iPhone 14 13 12 11 Pro Max XR 8 7 (Black)

Guguearth Lightning Headphones for iPhone are officially Apple MFi certified wired earbuds that are compatible with a range of iOS devices. These headphones feature premium sound quality, noise isolation, an ergonomic and magnetic design, and an all-in-one control with a microphone controller. They are suitable for a range of activities and come with a 2-year warranty.

What We Like
Officially Apple MFi certified
Premium sound quality and noise isolation
Ergonomic and magnetic design
All-in-one control with microphone controller
2-year warranty
#TOP 9

Apple Lightning Earbuds by Cablex

Cablex
CBLX-P5F
White-EB
Apple Lightning Earbuds by Cablex Cover
Apple Earbuds, iPhone Wired with Lightning Connector [Apple MFi Certified] Wired Earphones with Microphone Volume Control Music and Calling Headphones for iPhone 14/13/12/11/SE/X/XR/XS/8/7-2 Pack

The Cablex Lightning Earbuds offer seamless compatibility with a wide range of iPhone models, ensuring you can enjoy high-quality sound on your device. Simply connect via Bluetooth for quick access, and it will automatically link again in seconds for your next use. Experience rich audio with enhanced bass, thanks to the specially engineered speakers that maximize sound output. The convenient remote control allows you to adjust volume, manage playback, and handle calls effortlessly, making these earbuds a practical choice for everyday use.

What We Like
Excellent sound quality
Easy Bluetooth connection
Volume control remote
Wide compatibility
#TOP 10

Nimizo Lightning Earbuds with Mic

Nimizo-LT2PC
White
Nimizo Lightning Earbuds with Mic Cover
2 Packs iPhone Headphones Earbuds with Lightning Connector(Built-in Mic & Volume Control)[MFi Certified] Headphones support for iPhone 14/13/12/SE/11/XR/XS/X/7/7Plus/8/8Plus Support All iOS System

The Nimizo Earbuds offer a seamless audio experience for your iPhone or iPad, thanks to their wide compatibility with all Lightning connector devices. You can enjoy high-quality sound with clear bass, mids, and treble, enhancing your music listening experience. The built-in remote and microphone allow you to easily adjust volume, control playback, and manage calls, all with a simple touch. Plus, with a risk-free guarantee, you have 24/7 online support and a 12-month quality assurance, ensuring peace of mind with every purchase.

What We Like
Wide device compatibility
High-quality sound performance
Convenient remote control
24/7 customer support
Buying Guide Image

The Complete Guide to Buying Lightning Headphones

How to Choose Lightning Headphones: A Comprehensive Guide

As the world moves towards a more wireless future, it's important to remember that not all devices have caught up with this trend just yet. For those still using devices with lightning connectors, choosing the right headphones can make a big difference in your listening experience. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one for you? In this guide, we'll break down the key factors to consider when selecting lightning headphones.

Compatibility

First and foremost, it's important to ensure that the headphones you choose are compatible with your device. While many lightning headphones will work with most Apple devices, it's always worth double-checking to make sure. Some headphones may only work with certain models or require specific software updates to function properly. Be sure to read the product specifications carefully before making a purchase.

Sound Quality

Of course, sound quality is a major factor in any headphone purchase. When it comes to lightning headphones, there are a few things to consider. First, look for headphones that offer a wide frequency range, which will ensure that you can hear all the nuances and details in your music. It's also worth paying attention to the impedance of the headphones, as this will impact their ability to produce powerful, clear sound.

Comfort

No matter how great the sound quality is, if the headphones aren't comfortable to wear, you won't enjoy using them. Look for headphones with soft, cushioned ear cups that fit comfortably over your ears. Adjustable headbands can also make a big difference in ensuring a snug, comfortable fit.

Durability

When you invest in a pair of headphones, you want to make sure they'll last. Look for headphones made from high-quality materials that can withstand regular wear and tear. It's also worth checking to see if the headphones come with a warranty, which can provide added peace of mind.

Features

Finally, consider any additional features the headphones may offer. Some lightning headphones include built-in microphones and controls, which can be useful for taking phone calls or adjusting your music playback without having to take your device out of your pocket. Noise-cancelling technology can also be a valuable feature, particularly if you frequently use your headphones in noisy environments.

Conclusion

Choosing the right lightning headphones can take some time and research, but it's worth it to ensure that you're getting a high-quality listening experience. By considering factors like compatibility, sound quality, comfort, durability, and features, you can find the perfect headphones for your needs. And with so many great options out there, you're sure to find a pair that meets your needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a Lightning headphone?

It's maybe not something you see in every store and from every brand, but Lightning headphones do exist, and they allow you to plug a pair of headphones directly into the port in the bottom edge of your iPhone. Best noise-cancelling (ANC) headphones for blocking out noise when you're working from home.

2. Do Lightning headphones sound better?

Lightning in and of itself doesn't do anything to improve sound quality. It's just a connector. If you keep the same enclosure, drivers, and other design bits, nothing's going to change. That said, Lightning headphones can sound better — but likely only in more expensive pairs.

3. Why do Lightning headphones need Bluetooth?

Simply put, Lightning cables are capable of transferring much more data than Bluetooth, which means higher fidelity audio in your ears.

4. Can you use Lightning headphones on iPhone 11?

Prior to October 2020, iPhone 11 models were sold with a pair of EarPods with the lightning connector. These EarPods plug in to the same horizontal space located on the bottom of the phone where the iPhone charger plugs in. All you have to do is simply plug in the headphones, play the audio of your choice, and enjoy.

Editor's Notes

During our lightning headphones research, we found 24 lightning headphones products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 1,044,567 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lightning headphones list. We found that most customers choose lightning headphones with an average price of $16.66.

The lightning headphones are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lightning headphones, including Apple, Beats, Wgluupk, Belkin, PALOVUE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 31,134 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.