Technology
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How Do I Choose the Best 2.5mm Headphones?

M. Kayo
M. Kayo

Choosing the best 2.5mm headphones is easy if you do a little bit of research. The 2.5mm refers to the jack, not the headphones, which is smaller than the standard miniature 3.5mm headphone jacks. These 2.5mm headphones have a sub-miniature jack, or plug, also referred to as a cell-phone style jack, which allows hands-free operation when used with a cell phone or smart phone. Comfort, compatibility, and sound quality are all factors to be considered when choosing 2.5mm headphones. Trying to choose which headphones are going to work best for a specific device can seem a bit confusing at first until you know what you are looking for.

2.5mm headphones are typically going to be smaller in-ear type headphones, headsets, or ear buds so proper fit and comfort are a big consideration. Since every ear is unique, there is really no other way to determine if headphones or ear buds are a good fit than to try them on. There may be some information on various blogs as to which type of headphone is the most comfortable, but until you put them in your ears and use them for an extended period of time, it is going to be difficult to make a proper determination. If some of the native 2.5mm headphones do not provide a comfortable fit, look for a pair of headphones with the larger 3.5mm jack and use an adapter plug.

Woman with hand on her hip
Woman with hand on her hip

These smaller phones use the tiny sub-miniature jack, so there will likely not be as many options to choose from as there might be for headphones with a larger jack. Not all devices have the same size jack for headphones. Some will use the standard miniature 3.5mm headphone jack, and others will use the smaller 2.5mm jack. Compatibility is the primary consideration when choosing 2.5mm headphones, so if you plan on using the same headphones for two or more devices, it might be best to get the standard 3.5mm miniature headphones jack and purchase an adapter. A simple and inexpensive adapter may make the overall jack a bit longer, but this is hardly noticeable.

Sound quality is an important consideration when choosing the best 2.5mm headphones. Name brand headphones are more likely to provide better quality, so it may be best to buy from major manufacturers. Other manufacturers, however, can also produce quality products that are less expensive, so don't avoid them altogether if your research suggests that a particular unknown brand would be a good choice.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Woman with hand on her hip
      Woman with hand on her hip