We have prepared a list of the best headphone dongles under $50 you can buy in 2025. And today we will break it down for you so you can make an informed audio decision.
What is a headphone dongle DAC?
A dongle DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) is a small device that connects to your phone, tablet, or laptop—usually via USB-C or Lightning—and converts digital audio into an analog signal your headphones can actually play.
It also amplifies the signal, often improving clarity, volume, and overall sound quality compared to built-in headphone jacks. If you are using a wired headphones or IEMs, a dongle DAC is one of the easiest and most affordable upgrades you can make.
1. Moondrop Dawn Pro – Best Overall Performance
Price: $49-$55
DAC Chip: Dual Cirrus Logic CS43131
Amplifier: Integrated
Outputs: 3.5 mm single-ended + 4.4 mm balanced
Output Power: ~125 mW @ 32 Ω
Moondrop’s Dawn Pro delivers a great sound with excellent resolution and low noise. Dual CS43131 chips support up to 32-bit/384 kHz PCM as well as DSD256. The unit has both balanced and single-ended outputs and is famous for it’s compact and sturdy design.
Pros:
- Great choice for critical listening
- 4.4 mm and 3.5 mm outputs
- Volume buttons
- Detachable cable
Cons:
- Slightly larger than ultra-portable dongles
- May drain more battery than simpler models
- Some users reported rattle in the dongle body
2. FiiO Jade Audio KA11 – Slim & Balanced Sound
Price: $30-$33
DAC Chip: Cirrus Logic CS43131
Amplifier: Integrated
Output: 3.5 mm SE
Output Power: ~65 mW @ 32 Ω
The KA11 is compact and efficient dongle DAC, perfect for IEMs and sensitive full size headphones. It delivers clean, accurate sound with excellent power efficiency and supports up to 32-bit/384 kHz PCM. In addition it has a small foot print and is well-built.
Pros:
- Very compact and portable
- Neutral and detailed sound
- Good build quality
- Come both in Lightning and USB-C versions
Cons:
- Not ideal for high-impedance headphones
- No DSD or MQA support
- The dongle gets pretty warm during operation
The best in-ear monitors under $25 in 2025
Click to read more
Shanling UA Mini – Powerful and Portable
Price: ~$35-$38
DAC Chip: Cirrus Logic CS43131
Amplifier Chip: SGM8262‑2
Output: 3.5 mm single‑ended
Output Power: ~205 mW @ 32 Ω
The Shanling UA Mini packs serious punch in an ultra-compact package. Equipped with a high-performance Cirrus Logic CS43131 DAC and SGM8262 amplifier, it delivers remarkable clean output and 205 mW of power. It supports PCM up to 32-bit/384 kHz and Native DSD256. The ultra-low noise floor, excellent dynamic range, and handy LED sampling-rate indicator make it stand out in this price tier.
Pros:
- Outstanding output power for a dongle
- Exceptionally clean sound
- RGB LED indicator that shows sample rate
Cons:
- Slightly larger than the smallest dongles, but still very portable
4. JCALLY JM6 Pro – Feature-Packed with MQA
Price: $18-$23
DAC Chip: Dual CX31993
Amplifier: MAX97220
Output: 3.5 mm SE (some variants have 4.4 mm)
Output Power: ~60 mW @ 32 Ω
Warm, musical tuning with support for MQA and DSD makes the JM6 Pro a great dongle for streaming fans. It has a robust build and smooth sound, especially good for brighter IEMs. It supports PCM up to 32-bit / 384 kHz and Native DSD128
Pros:
- Warm and pleasant sound signature
- Sturdy cable design
Cons:
- Less neutral than other CS43131 based dongles
- Older DAC chips compared to newer models
5. Apple USB‑C to 3.5 mm Adapter – Compact & Clean
Price: $9–$10
DAC Chip: Apple Custom (Cirrus Logic-based)
Amplifier: Integrated
Output: 3.5 mm SE
Output Power: ~30 mW @ 32 Ω
Why it’s great:
Surprisingly high-quality audio from such a small, inexpensive adapter. Excellent for IEMs and general use, especially when you want something lightweight and ultra-portable. It supports PCM up to 24-bit / 48 kHz.
Pros:
- Ultra-compact and lightweight
- Excellent low output impedance for IEMs
- Very affordable
- Come both in Lightning and USB-C versions
- Officially supported on Apple and Android
Cons:
- No Hi-Res support (max 24-bit/48 kHz)
- Low power output — not ideal for power-hungry headphones and IEMs
Comparison Table
| Model | Price | DAC Chip | Outputs | Output Power @ 32 Ω | Hi‑Res Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moondrop Dawn Pro | $49 | Dual CS43131 | 3.5 mm + 4.4 mm | ~120–125 mW | PCM 384 kHz, DSD256 |
| FiiO KA11 | $33 | CS43131 | 3.5 mm SE | ~65 mW | PCM 384 kHz |
| Shanling UA Mini | $33 | CS43131 + SGM8262‑2 | 3.5 mm SE | ~205 mW | PCM 384 kHz, DSD256 |
| JCALLY JM6 Pro | $36 | Dual CX31993 | 3.5 mm SE (variants with 4.4 mm exist) | ~60 mW | PCM 384 kHz, DSD128, MQA |
| Apple USB‑C Dongle | $9-$10 | Apple Custom | 3.5 mm SE | ~30 mW | 24‑bit/48 kHz |
Final Thoughts
There’s never been a better time to upgrade your portable audio without spending a lot. Whether you want something small and simple or a powerful dongle that brings out the best in your IEMs, there’s a great option under $50.
- Moondrop Dawn Pro – If you want the best overall performance with both 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm outputs, this is the most versatile and audiophile-friendly pick under $50. Perfect for balanced IEMs and high-res listening on the go.
- FiiO KA11 – Ideal if you want something ultra-compact and efficient, but still capable of excellent audio quality. A great plug-and-play solution for users with moderate power needs.
- Shanling UA Mini – The power king in this roundup. With over 200 mW of output at 32 Ω and native DSD support, it’s perfect if you want to drive more demanding IEMs or headphones without stepping up to a desktop setup.
- JCALLY JM6 Pro – If you’re after a slightly warmer sound and bonus features like MQA support, this dongle gives you a lot for the money. Some variants even offer a 4.4 mm balanced output.
- Apple USB‑C Dongle – Still a winner for pure convenience. It may not have fancy specs, but it’s ultra-reliable, extremely portable, and sounds better than you’d expect for just $10. A no-brainer for casual listeners or as a backup device.
No matter what you’re listening to or how much you want to spend, these DACs will all give you a noticeable boost in sound quality. Plug one in, hit play, and enjoy the difference.
Leave a Reply