Yes, you can buy one replacement AirPod, but the cost and process depend on which model you own
Apple sells individual AirPods through its website, Apple Stores, and authorized retailers. A single AirPod costs between $69 and $99 depending on the model — roughly half the price of a new pair. The catch is that Apple requires you to buy the earbud alone, without the charging case, and you cannot mix generations or models within one pair.
The process is straightforward: you identify your AirPod model, order the replacement online or in-store, and Apple ships it to you or you pick it up the same day at a physical location. Delivery typically takes three to five business days for online orders. You do not need proof of purchase or a warranty to buy a replacement — Apple treats it as a standard product sale.
Key Takeaways
- Apple sells single AirPods for $69 to $99 depending on whether you own AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, AirPods (standard), or AirPods Max, and you must know your exact model before ordering.
- You cannot pair a new AirPod from a different generation with your existing one — both earbuds must be the same model and generation.
- Buying direct from Apple is usually cheaper than third-party sellers, and you avoid counterfeit products that are common on marketplace sites.
- If your AirPod is still under warranty and the loss or damage is covered, Apple may replace it for free or at a reduced cost through their support process.
How to identify which AirPod model you own
Open the Settings app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, then go to Bluetooth. Tap or click the information icon next to your AirPods in the list. The model name appears at the top — it will say "AirPods Pro (2nd generation)", "AirPods (3rd generation)", "AirPods Max", or similar. Write this down before you shop, because ordering the wrong generation means you will receive an earbud that will not pair with your existing one.
If you no longer have the device they were paired to, check the original box or receipt. The model is printed on the packaging. You can also visit Apple's support page and use their product identification tool by entering your serial number, which is printed inside the charging case lid.
Where to buy a single replacement AirPod
Apple's official website (apple.com) lists replacement AirPods under each model's product page. Search for your model, scroll to the bottom, and select "Buy AirPod (Left)" or "Buy AirPod (Right)" depending on which one you need. Shipping is free on orders over $35, and most orders arrive within three to five business days. You can also choose in-store pickup at any Apple Store if one is near you — this usually takes a few hours.
Apple Stores themselves stock replacement AirPods in most locations. Walk in, tell them your model and which earbud you need, and they can often sell it to you on the spot. Authorized retailers like Best Buy, Target, and Walmart also carry replacement AirPods, though selection varies by location. Call ahead to confirm they have your specific model in stock.
Avoid buying from third-party marketplace sellers unless you can verify the seller is Apple-authorized. Counterfeit AirPods are common on sites like eBay and some Amazon listings, and they will not pair correctly or may fail within weeks. The price difference is rarely worth the risk.
What the replacement AirPod includes and what it does not
When you buy a single AirPod, you receive only the earbud itself — not a charging case, not a cable, not ear tips (unless you are buying AirPods Pro, which come with a set of three tip sizes). The earbud will charge in your existing case exactly as your original one did. If you lost or damaged your charging case, you will need to buy that separately; Apple sells replacement cases for $59 to $79 depending on the model.
The replacement earbud comes with a one-year limited warranty from Apple, the same as any new product. This covers manufacturing defects but not accidental damage, water damage, or loss. If your replacement fails within the warranty period and the failure is not your fault, Apple will replace it again at no cost.
Cost comparison: single replacement versus buying a new pair
A single AirPod costs $69 to $99. A new pair of the same model costs $129 to $549 depending on which AirPods you choose. If you lost one earbud, buying a replacement is roughly 50 to 60 percent cheaper than starting over. If both earbuds are damaged or lost, a new pair is your only option — you cannot buy two single AirPods and expect them to work as a matched set if they come from different batches or shipments, though in practice they usually do.
Some retailers occasionally discount AirPods during sales events like Black Friday or back-to-school promotions, but replacement single AirPods rarely go on sale. If you are considering whether to replace one or buy new, check current prices for a full pair at Best Buy or Amazon to see if a sale is running. Sometimes the gap narrows enough that a new pair makes more sense.
What to do if your AirPod is still under warranty
If you lost or damaged your AirPod within the first year of purchase and the damage is not accidental (for example, a manufacturing defect caused it to stop charging), contact Apple Support through their website or call 1-800-MY-APPLE. Explain what happened and provide your serial number if you have it. Apple may replace the earbud for free or at a reduced cost depending on the situation.
If the damage is accidental — you dropped it, sat on it, or exposed it to water — you are not covered by the standard warranty. However, if you purchased AppleCare+ when you bought your AirPods, accidental damage is covered. Check your receipt or Apple Account to see if AppleCare+ is active on your AirPods. If it is, contact Apple Support and they will walk you through the replacement process, which may involve a service fee of $29 to $49 depending on the model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a left AirPod if I only lost the right one?
Yes. When you order, you specify which earbud you need — left or right. Apple will send you that specific one. It will pair with your existing earbud automatically once it charges in your case.
What if I buy the wrong generation by mistake?
Return it within 14 days for a full refund if you ordered online, or within 15 days if you bought it in-store. Bring the earbud in its original packaging and your receipt. Then order the correct model.
Do replacement AirPods come with new ear tips?
AirPods Pro replacements include a full set of three tip sizes. Standard AirPods and AirPods Air do not come with tips. If you need replacement tips for AirPods Pro, Apple sells them separately for $4 per pair.
Will a replacement AirPod work with my old charging case?
Yes, as long as it is the same model. A replacement AirPod Pro (2nd generation) will charge in your existing AirPods Pro (2nd generation) case. You cannot use an AirPods Pro case with standard AirPods, or vice versa.
Is it cheaper to buy a replacement from Apple or a third-party seller?
Apple's prices are consistent across all authorized retailers. Third-party marketplace sellers may list lower prices, but many are counterfeit. Buying from Apple, Best Buy, Target, or Walmart at their official prices ensures you receive a genuine product with a valid warranty.