![iVANKY Aux Cable 4ft [Hi-Fi Sound, 2-Pack], 3.5mm Auxiliary Audio...](data:image/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB2aWV3Qm94PSIwIDAgMSAxIiB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiBkYXRhLXU9Imh0dHBzJTNBJTJGJTJGbS5tZWRpYS1hbWF6b24uY29tJTJGaW1hZ2VzJTJGSSUyRjQxTXFldGNMbHNMLl9TTDE2MF8uanBnIiBkYXRhLXc9IjEiIGRhdGEtaD0iMSIgeG1sbnM9Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cudzMub3JnLzIwMDAvc3ZnIj48L3N2Zz4=)
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In a world of wireless technologies, many people forget about the simplicity and reliability of a wired aux in cable connection. While Wi-fi and BlueTooth connections provide convenience when it comes to playing music through and from MP3 players and various devices, it’s often prefixed by a headache-inducing session of syncing issues and signal loss from one end or another.
Many people have opted to return the realms of wired aux cords as they completely bypass these issues and can have you blasting your favorite tunes in seconds. Not only that but with innovations of high-quality connectors and protection against signal interference and loss, music has never sounded better.
Whether you need a quick plugin for your car stereo, a new auxiliary cable for your over-ear headphones, or just a great quality cable to wire up your MP3 player or smartphone to your speakers, there are plenty of options to choose from.
But which auxiliary cable is right for you? How can you be sure that your Friday night house party playlist won’t be cut short by the sound of unwanted crackling and buzzing from a low-end aux cord? Fear not, as we have plugged ourselves into the world of aux cables and come up with a list of the best aux cables available to buy in 2022. Now, lets hit play and turn it up!
View The Best Aux Cable Below
1. iVanky Aux Cable for Car
This two-pack of high-end auxiliary cables brings the absolute best in sound resolution and quality. The 24k gold-plated connectors ensure lossless and crisp sound with any device or speaker—multiple levels of protection shield the highest grade pure copper wiring. A layer of aluminum foil and a copper wire mesh surrounds the main internal wire to prevent audio signal loss and interference.
Plus, the thermoplastic elastomer sleeve (TPE) provides the very best in outer-protection against breaks, tears, and extensive use. The iVanky has a bend lifespan of 15,000+, so you know this durable cable is going to keep working and keep your tunes blasting for years to come. The slender 3.5mm aux metal connectors design means it works with almost all phones and tablets, even when they’re in a chunky protective case.
No need to remove your phone! Just plug straight in and get those music anthems pounding. Though this cable is marketed as an aux cable for your car, the limits of these cables go far beyond that. With 4 feet of length, they’ll make a great means of playing music in any setup.
Pros:
+ High-quality stereo audio sound
+ Durable high bend lifespan
+ Includes 18-month warranty
Why We Like It – Though listed as a car cable, this is one of the best aux cables for quality and diversity. Be that the car, your stereo, headphones, or rigging up an MP3 player and Bluetooth speaker at a party.
2. KabelDirekt Aux Cord
KabelDirekt offers its customers an unprecedented range of cable lengths, ranging from the day to day length of 1 foot up to an incredible 25 feet! This makes the Kabel Direct one of the best 3.5mm aux cables to consider for music production or any other kind of audio set up that requires freedom of movement, flexibility, and supreme sound quality. The 3.5mm gold-plated connectors are corrosion-resistant, and the polished metal sleeving that holds them offers durable and lasting protection.
They are doubled shielded to protect against physical damage and audio interference. The OFC pure copper wiring gives great connection quality. The KabelDirekt is compatible with all audio devices, including phones, tablets, MP3 players, stereos, speakers, car aux inputs, and headphones. No matter what you use this auxiliary cable for, you’re guaranteed great results. It also comes with a 36-month warranty, so you’re sure to get your money’s worth.
Pros:
+ Option for huge cable length
+ Corrosion-resistant gold-plated connectors
+ Metal sleeve protection
Why We Like It – In audio recording or a studio set up, it can be hard to find a reliable 3.5mm aux cord with enough length. This is never an issue with the KabelDirekt since you can select the length you need from the wide range of options.
3. Cable Creation Aux Cable
Right away, this auxiliary cable is one that leaps out at you with its snazzy cable pattern. The cotton braid that surrounds this fun and functional cable has a 10,000+ bend lifespan and is tangle resistant. Where other polymers or plastic-coated auxiliary cables are prone to tangling, the cotton texture allows this cable to slip free from itself in seconds – no more frantically tugging at your auxiliary cables in a hurry in your car or on foot.
This cable is available in packs of one or two and with sizes ranging from 1.5 feet to 6 feet depending on your needs. It has super-slim gold-plated connectors that fit into any device effortlessly, even with the chunkiest of restrictive cases. The metal connectors cases are made from premium zinc alloy and offer the best protection against signal interference. It also comes with a 2-year warranty.
Pros:
+ Snazzy cable design
+ Tangle resistant cotton braid
+ Excellent audio signal interference protection
Why We Like It – It’s all about the style with this one. Cotton braid is something of a luxury feature on cables, and the Cable Creation Aux Cable is one that pushes it a step further with its cool and fashionable design.
4. Oldboytech Aux Cable
The Oldboytech cable maintains a level of quality that keeps it in competition with any high-end aux cable. This cable uses a nylon braided cover. It has a bend lifespan of at least 10,000 and as much as 15,000 if used with care. The nylon braid also makes this cable tangle resistant, so say goodbye to those irritating teasing out the knots sessions. The 3.5mm 2.4k gold plated connectors give a great full sound, which is aided by the audio jack copper shell fittings.
Together with a silver wire core, the Oldboytech delivers reliable and high-end audio from phones, MP3 players, or any other devices with a 3.5mm audio connector. The cable protects against interference well and is covered by a lifetime warranty. The Oldboytech cable twin packs are also available in a range of three lengths; 1.48 feet, 4 feet, and 8 feet.
Pros:
+ Nylon braid gives excellent protection
+ Different lengths available
+ Copper shell blocks out audio interference
Why We Like It – The Oldboytech gives great audio sound while providing reliable and strong signal protection. It’s definitely one of the best auxiliary cables if you’re on a budget.
5. Mediabridge 3.5mm Male to Male Stereo Audio Cable
The Media bridge is an auxiliary cable that does not mess around. From its core, the 27AWG copper wiring is 25% thicker than most standard 3.5mm audio cables. That’s 25% more oomph going into your music right there. A dual shield of aluminum foil and copper braid provides insulation and delivers a crisp and static-free sound. Finally, a flexible PVC sheath provides strong, durable protection against interference and the environment. The 3.5mm male audio jack connectors are gold plated to ensure lossless connection quality.
They are made featuring a “step-down” design around the base of the connector, meaning the 3.5mm connector can fit into the slimmest and most restrictive of phone or tablet cases. This is a great cable for those who frequently have to take their devices out of their case off just to plug headphones in. The connectors are corrosion-resistant and housed with polished metal casing for a sleek and attractive design. A wide range of cables lengths are available and range from 2 feet to 12 feet in length.
Pros:
+ Sublime audio quality
+ Step down connector design
+ 3 layer cable protection
Why We Like It – The Mediabridge feels like a heavy-duty cable. It’s the kind of cable that delivers a thick booming sound and is robust and strong enough to survive rowdy party atmospheres.
6. IXCC Auxiliary Cable
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The IXCC is another cable that uses a form of “step-down” connector head design to accommodate a wide range of devices and their cases. This 3-foot cable uses 24k gold-plated connectors to deliver outstanding connection and signal strength. The polished chrome casing and dual shielded wiring give excellent static insulation and protection against audio interference.
The plastic wire coating is tangle-resistant and durable against wear and tear. Every IXCC auxiliary cable is rigorously tested at its creation to ensure it meets the manufacturer’s high standard. It even comes with a 2-year warranty to ensure you get your full money’s worth.
Pros:
+ Step down connector design
+ Polished chrome casing
+ Tangle resistant
Why We Like It – This is a versatile cable that offers great audio quality while being one of the cheapest 3.5mm cables on our list.
7. UGREEN 2RCA Auxiliary Audio Adaptor
This aux cable is the only Y-cord 2RCA stereo splitter cable on our list, but it earns its place as the one representative of the design. With wireless speakers becoming more and more popular because of their easy transportation, it could be argued that stereo hi-fi systems are not as popular as they once were (with the exception of car stereos). However, there is still no substitute for the quality of sound definition they offer.
For those committed to stereo’s reign as King of home audio, the UGREEN is one fantastic way to meld the generations of hi-fi and MP3 players, iPods, and phones together. This aux cable comes in 3, 6, 10, or 15-foot sizes so you can make sure it will reach anywhere in your living room or bedroom. This is a perfect auxiliary cable for a party when you and your guests want to pass the role of DJ around and plug in different devices between songs.
The 24k gold-plated 3.5mm connector will fit almost all devices, and the red and white stereo connectors plug directly into any hi-fi amplifier or speaker set with the relevant inputs. Carefully crafted aluminum shells provide durable housing for the connectors and give a pleasing, aesthetic look to the UGREEN cable. The inner core is made from 24AWG copper wiring with 3 layers of protection to ward against audio signal loss and interference. The outer PVC cover keeps the cable well protected from environmental damage.
Pros:
+ Fantastic audio quality
+ Works with a massive range of devices and stereo systems
+ 3 layer wiring protection.
Why We Like It – It’s great to know that the old school stereo junkies are still being catered to. While many manufacturers either discontinued or massively downgraded their 2RCA cables, UGREEN has swept the market by creating a quality 3.5mm cable that makes the most of contemporary technology within one classic cable design.
The Anker auxiliary cable is somewhat peculiar as, while it offers excellent durability and sound, it lacks compatibility with a specific list of devices. This is the Anker’s one and only detrimental trait, however, that needs to be recognized. At present, the Anker premium auxiliary audio cable is not compatible with Sony MDR-1000x headphones, Beats Solo headphones, Amazon Echo Dot, Lifeproof cases, and some earlier models of iPhone, including the iPhone 7, 7 plus, 8 plus, and iPhone X.
While this is a shame for any customers who use any one of these products, Anker’s customer service receives very high reviews for helping its customers resolve issues related to the non-compatible devices.
Those who don’t use one of the listed non-compatible devices can enjoy a highly durable and lasting 3.5mm cable with excellent sound quality. This is the only aux cable we’ve found that uses actual Kevlar fiber in the external wire shielding to provide unmatched protection from both physical and signal disruption. It has a bend lifespan of over 10,000.
The gold plated 3.5mm connectors are corrosion resistant – these gold plated connectors give improved signal conduction for a full, crisp sound through your car, headphones, or speakers. The Anker cable is available in one length of 4 feet and comes with an 18-month warranty.
Pros:
+ Kevlar fiber insulation gives great durability.
+ Corrosion-resistant connectors.
+ 18-month warranty and excellent customer service.
Why We Like It – The durability of this cable is outstanding. While the actual bend lifespan could be considered average, the Kevlar fiber adds a level of wear and tear protection, not typically covered by bend lifespan measurement.
9. Syncwire Long Aux Cable
The Syncwire is an aux cable packed to the brim with features. Right from the core, this cable uses technically bulletproof military fiber wiring to ensure lossless signal quality. The triple wiring is then coated in an enameled copper cover and TPE insulation layer, which provides the best protection against signal interference. Finally, a nylon braided mesh covers the TPE insulator and gives the Syncwire a tangle-free outer texture and 15,000+ bend lifespan.
This is easily the best aux cable in terms of durability and strength. It has polished aluminum casings that provide enhanced sound quality and 3.5mm gold plated connectors, which give the best signal conduction possible. The end product is a full and rich sound, suitable for any music genre or mix, whether you like it clean and crisp or heavy and bassy. The Syncwire 3.5mm connector is slim enough to fit a wide range of phone and tablet cases.
However, it should be noted that it will not fit devices using Otterbox or Lifeproof cases. It’s available in two sizes (3.3 feet and 6.5 feet), providing you with ample range to reach across most living spaces and car interiors. There’s even a generous 3-year warranty included so that you can be sure you’re going to get your money’s worth.
Pros:
+ Military fiber core.
+ Triple-layer protection and durability.
+ Tangle-free.
Why We Like It – Perhaps it’s the manufacturer using the word “military” in their product description that makes the Syncwire Long Aux Cable seem so heavy duty. But in practice, there is no denying its durability and long life. This might be the best aux cable for road trips and roughing it as the durability will keep going for as long as you can.
Aux Cables Buyer’s Guide
There can be several things to consider before purchasing a quality auxiliary cable. Taking the time to review them can help to avoid frustrations and disappointment further down the line.
Everything from cable length to the materials used can have an impact on an aux cable’s end performance and even compatibility. We’ve broken down some of the key things you should consider to avoid the irritating static of disappointment and, instead, step into the realms of crystal clear audio clarity.
Bend Lifespan
A cable’s bend lifespan is pretty straightforward to understand. Most aux cables are given a number for their bend lifespan, usually ranging anywhere from 5000 to 20,000. This is a rough estimate that gages how many times the wire can bend while still retaining the integrity and conduction of the internal wire. It goes by the number of bends as opposed to length of ownership time, giving a more accurate lifespan estimate for users who exercise more care with their cable to make it last longer.
It should be noted, however, that the bend lifespan is not the same as what is called bend radius. Bend radius refers to the amount one cable can be bent within a concentrated area without becoming damaged or “kinked.” Thicker cables tend to have a smaller bend radius as the thicker diameter affords them less flexibility over a short distance.
The important thing to consider with the bend lifespan is that you need to purchase a cable that will keep up with your requirements. For example, if you’re using your aux cable as a permanent fixture to your stereo or recording set up, then a cable with a lower bend lifespan should suffice. Since you won’t be moving it very often, it won’t need too much in the way of protection. However, if you are planning to use your cable in your car or for bridging between a speaker and a phone, it’s likely you need a higher bend lifespan to ward against the persistent movement.
Length
This issue seems obvious. However, many customers are still caught out by purchasing a cable too short for what they need. In mobile cable uses (such as connecting one end of the cable to your phone and the other to your car or portable speaker), this is less of an issue. However, for those wanting to run a 3.5mm connector to the far side of their bedroom or living room, this can be incredibly frustrating.
Our advice is to know exactly what you plan to use your cable for beforehand and then be sure to purchase one with at least an extra foot of length than you think you’ll need. You’d be surprised how many times an extra few inches can make all the difference.
Slim Designs / Fitting phone and tablet covers
If you’re someone who takes care of their device with a durable case then, firstly, well done for having the common sense to protect something we all drop daily and costs a small fortune to repair or replace. However, some of the heavier duty and thicker cases can cause problems when it comes to plugging headphones or cables in the 3.5mm input. If you frequently have this issue, then you should be purchasing a cable with a step-down design. These aux cable connectors are substantially thinner and allow you to plug in without removing your device from its protective case.
Shielding
All cables – not just auxiliary cables – come in a wide range of shielding types and layers. With more layers, such as dual and triple layer cables, you get much better insulation, and that often directly correlates with a truer audio sound in aux cables. More layers usually mean a better bend lifespan or general wear and tear protection. The rub is that the more layers of protection your aux cable has, the more the price of it is likely to go up.
Ultimately, it comes down to your own preferences, but we recommend going for max level shielding where possible as it makes your cables last longer. They will also perform better with little or no drop off of quality toward the end of their usage. Some users prefer to buy cheaper one-layered cables and replace them every year or so, but this cost can add up over time and often will not deliver as good audio results as triple shielded aux cables.
Compatibility
Most aux cables are universal. However, there are exceptions (The Anker Premium Auxiliary Audio Cable, for example). Always read the specs of your aux cable before buying to make sure that it will work with your headphones and devices.
Questions
Which better? Aux cables or Bluetooth?
It mostly comes down to personal preference. But with aux cables, you get a much better quality sound that is less prone to interference. Also, Bluetooth is susceptible to syncing issues, loss of signal, and being hijacked by other devices. Though you do get the freedom of movement with Bluetooth, there is a simplicity and elegance in just plugging and being ready to go.
What type of metal connector is best?
Generally speaking, most manufacturers use gold plating because of its excellent conductive properties and resistance to outside interference and corrosion. The base metal can vary, but it’s usually aluminum, copper, or another conductive metal. The gold plating on top is what gives the best conduction. However, this is not “real 24k gold,” as this would drive the price of connectors up exponentially. Don’t be fooled by cables promising 24k gold – there is gold in the plating mixture, but you won’t find enough to warrant starting to melt them down.
Can I use a ¼ inch jack lead as an aux cable?
If you have appropriate connector adaptors to switch your ¼ inch jack to a 3.5mm jack, then yes, it should work just fine, assuming there are no compatibility issues. However, jack leads or “phone leads” as they’re also known are much more heavy-duty.
They are much more weighty and cumbersome as they are predominantly used in music production for rigged up guitars and other electric instruments. While this may work in your home, we don’t recommend it for outside, or car use as the much larger size is likely to become an annoyance.
Conclusion
Whichever model of aux cable from our list you decide to go for, you can be sure that you’ll be getting excellent sound quality and a lasting product that will keep your beats thumping throughout wherever life takes you.
