# item.guide
Side-by-Side Comparison Jack Connectors

2.5mm TRS vs. XLR 5-Pin

Comparing 2 standards across 8 specifications. 8 key differences identified.

Comparing:
2.5mm TRS
XLR 5-Pin
2.5mm TRS →

2.5mm TRS is the smallest common member of the phone-connector family -- the same tip-ring-sleeve wiring as 3.5mm TRS, scaled down to a 2.5mm shaft. It was used for headset jacks on cordless phones, two-way radios, and early portable tape recorder remotes before 3.5mm became the standard smaller size.

View full 2.5mm TRS spec sheet →
XLR 5-Pin →

5-pin XLR is the standard connector for DMX512 digital lighting control -- though 3-pin XLR is commonly, and per the DMX512 spec itself non-compliantly, substituted in practice. 5-pin XLR is also used for some stereo microphones and modular professional audio equipment.

View full XLR 5-Pin spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

8 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
2.5mm TRS
XLR 5-Pin
Connector Family
Phone Jack (Micro-Mini) Circular Stage & Lighting Interconnect (XLR5)
Conductors / Contacts
3 (Tip, Ring, Sleeve) 5 Pins
Signal Format
Unbalanced Stereo / Balanced Mono DMX512 Digital Lighting Control / Dual-Element Audio
Primary Applications
Cordless phones, two-way radios, legacy mobile headsets, micro audio gear Stage lighting consoles, moving head fixtures, dimmers, dual-channel stereo microphones
Shaft / Plug Diameter
2.5 mm —
Standard Stereo Pinout
Tip: Left | Ring: Right | Sleeve: Ground —
DMX512 Pinout
— Pin 1: Shield | Pin 2: Data 1(-) | Pin 3: Data 1(+) | Pin 4: Data 2(-) | Pin 5: Data 2(+)
Governing Standard
— ANSI E1.11 / USITT DMX512-A

Other Alternatives to Compare

Compare 2.5mm TRS vs. 2.5mm TRRS → Compare 2.5mm TRS vs. 3.5 mm TRRS → Compare 2.5mm TRS vs. 3.5 mm TRS → Compare 2.5mm TRS vs. 6.35 mm (1/4") TRS → Compare 2.5mm TRS vs. 6.35mm TS → Compare 2.5mm TRS vs. Coaxial Cable Types (RG Series) → Compare 2.5mm TRS vs. RCA → Compare 2.5mm TRS vs. XLR 3-Pin → Compare 2.5mm TRS vs. XLR 4-Pin →