The Best Portable Headphone Amp With Built-In DAC

What to consider when buying:

- Compatibility with your headphones and devices
- DAC quality and resolution
- Power output and impedance matching
- Battery life and portability
- Additional features like EQ, gain, and low/high pass filters

Winner: FiiO Q5s ($349)

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Buy Now on Amazon

- Amazon: 4.5 stars, 86 ratings
- BH Photo: 5 stars, 5 ratings
- Suggested Retail Price: $349
- Specs: 32-bit/768kHz DAC, Bluetooth 5.0, 3500mAh battery
- Recommended for: Audiophiles who want high-quality audio, versatility, and convenience in one compact package. The FiiO Q5s is compatible with most headphones and devices, supports a variety of wired and wireless connections, and features dual AK4493EQ DAC chips for exceptional sound quality.

Runner-up: AudioQuest DragonFly Red ($199)

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‍Buy Now on Amazon

- Amazon: 4.6 stars, 1,502 ratings
- Best Buy: 4.8 stars, 135 ratings
- Suggested Retail Price: $199
- Specs: 32-bit ESS 9016 DAC, USB and 3.5mm analog inputs, 12mW@32ohms output
- Recommended for: Casual listeners who want a lightweight and affordable amp/DAC that delivers a noticeable improvement over their device's built-in audio. The DragonFly Red is small enough to fit in your pocket, but powerful enough to drive most headphones with ease and clarity.

Also great: iFi Hip-dac ($149)

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‍Buy Now on Amazon

- Amazon: 4.7 stars, 111 ratings
- Walmart: 5 stars, 5 ratings
- Suggested Retail Price: $149
- Specs: 32-bit/384kHz DAC, 400mW@16ohms output, balanced and single-ended outputs
- Recommended for: On-the-go listeners who prioritize portability and versatility without sacrificing audio quality. The Hip-dac has a sleek and sturdy design, supports iOS and Android devices, and even features a bass boost and iEMatch for customizable sound.