3.5mm Jack (mini-jack)

TL;DR

The 3.5mm jack (also called mini-jack, 1/8-inch, aux) is the most common consumer audio connector - used for headphones, phones, and line-level audio. Modern phones increasingly drop the jack in favor of USB-C or Bluetooth.

The 3.5mm audio jack is the small round connector historically found on every phone, laptop, and audio device. Also called mini-jack, 1/8-inch, or aux jack.

Configurations

  • TS (Tip-Sleeve) – mono, 2 conductors
  • TRS – stereo, 3 conductors (standard headphones)
  • TRRS – stereo + mic, 4 conductors (headset with microphone)

Modern relevance

iPhones dropped the 3.5mm jack in 2016 (iPhone 7). Many Android phones followed. Modern replacement: USB-C DAC dongles or Bluetooth.

In hi-fi

Many DACs have a 3.5mm aux output for connecting subwoofers or portable amps. The Fosi DS3 and most portable amps still use it.

Ready to see this in action?

Browse honest, hands-on reviews of budget hi-fi gear that puts these concepts to the test.