This is a simple one: place the headphone port on the same side of the device where the user will be. That way, the headphone cable won’t be getting in the way by crossing over the top (or under) device.
Yes—it means the boards need to be designed differently. It also might mean that there are ports on both the front and back of the device.
Every time a button is designed to be in a particular position, it’s to increase the usability and ergonomics of its function. Part of the reason you’re designing with that in mind is because it’s an integral part of the device, its features and experience. It’s easy to forget that the users bring these devices into their own setups with rickety cafe tables, hacked audio setups, weird integrations with other devices, and unique requirements.
But this isn’t a weird edge case. For many devices, the user will plug in wired headphones 100% of the time.
If your device has a headphone port, you should design the device with headphones (proverbially) attached… especially if that’s a primary way to hear its output.
What’s better? Future-proof your device by making it friendly to wireless audio streaming.
