Yes, you can buy a single replacement AirPod from Apple, but the cost and process depend on which model you own
Apple sells individual AirPods as replacements, not as a way to build a pair from scratch. If you lost one earbud or one stopped working, you can order a single replacement directly from Apple's website or through an Apple Store. The replacement AirPod will pair automatically with your existing one, and you keep your current charging case.
The catch is price. A single replacement AirPod costs between $69 and $99 depending on the model — often close to half the price of a full new pair. For some people, that math makes sense. For others, especially if the remaining earbud is several years old, buying a new pair might be the better choice.
Key Takeaways
- Apple sells single replacement AirPods for $69 to $99 each, depending on whether you own standard AirPods, AirPods Pro, or AirPods Max.
- You order through Apple's website, an Apple Store, or an authorized retailer, and the replacement pairs automatically with your existing earbud and case.
- If your AirPod is still under warranty or covered by AppleCare+, the replacement may be free or cost only the service fee.
- Buying a single replacement makes sense if the other earbud works well; buying a new pair makes sense if both are aging or you want a newer model.
How to order a single replacement AirPod
Go to apple.com and search for "replacement AirPod" or navigate to the AirPods section under Accessories. Select your model — AirPods (2nd generation), AirPods (3rd generation), AirPods Pro (1st or 2nd generation), or AirPods Max — and choose left or right earbud. Add to cart and check out as you would any other purchase.
You can also walk into an Apple Store and ask for a replacement. Staff can order it on the spot if they don't have your model in stock. Authorized retailers like Best Buy and Target also carry some replacement AirPods, though selection is often limited to the most common models.
The replacement will arrive in a small box with just the earbud and a charging cable if needed. Open the case of your existing AirPods, place the new one inside, and it will pair automatically. You do not need to reset anything or re-pair to your phone.
What replacement AirPods cost by model
| Model | Single Replacement Cost |
|---|---|
| AirPods (2nd generation) | $69 |
| AirPods (3rd generation) | $79 |
| AirPods Pro (1st generation) | $89 |
| AirPods Pro (2nd generation) | $99 |
| AirPods Max (single earcup) | $399 |
These are the standard out-of-warranty prices. If you bought AppleCare+ with your AirPods, a replacement typically costs $29 instead. If your AirPods are still within the one-year limited warranty and the earbud failed due to a defect (not accidental damage), Apple may replace it at no cost.
When a single replacement makes financial sense
Replace one earbud if the other one works well and you bought your AirPods within the last two years. The replacement will match the sound and features of your existing earbud, and you avoid the $129 to $249 cost of a full new pair.
A new pair makes more sense if both earbuds are aging, if you want the newer features of a current model, or if the remaining earbud is already showing signs of wear. Newer AirPods models often have longer battery life, better noise cancellation, or improved fit — features you lose if you pair an old earbud with a new one.
If you lost the charging case but both earbuds still work, you can also buy a replacement case separately for $39 to $79, depending on the model. That is cheaper than replacing an earbud.
Warranty and AppleCare+ coverage for replacements
AirPods come with a one-year limited warranty that covers manufacturing defects — a speaker that stops working, a battery that fails, or a charging contact that corrodes. It does not cover physical damage, water damage, or loss. If your earbud failed within a year and you did not drop it or expose it to water, contact Apple Support and describe the problem. They may send a replacement at no cost.
AppleCare+ extends coverage to two years and includes accidental damage protection. If you spilled water on an earbud or stepped on it, AppleCare+ covers the replacement for a $29 service fee per incident. Without AppleCare+, accidental damage is not covered, and you pay the full replacement price.
What to do if you cannot find your exact model
If your AirPods are an older model that Apple no longer stocks — such as the original AirPods or the first-generation AirPods Pro — you may not find a replacement on Apple's website. Call Apple Support or visit an Apple Store to ask if they can special-order it. If not, your options are a used replacement from a third-party seller or buying a new pair.
Third-party marketplaces like eBay and Amazon sell used and refurbished AirPods, including older models. Prices vary widely, and there is no may provide of condition or authenticity. If you go this route, buy only from sellers with high ratings and a clear return policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a replacement AirPod work with my old charging case?
Yes. The replacement earbud pairs with your existing case automatically. You do not need to buy a new case unless yours is damaged or lost. The case is the same across all generations of standard AirPods, so a 2nd-generation earbud works with a 3rd-generation case and vice versa.
Can I return a replacement AirPod if I change my mind?
Apple's standard return window is 14 days from purchase. If you ordered online, you can start a return through your Apple account. If you bought in a store, bring the earbud and receipt back within 14 days. Once opened and used, some retailers may deduct a restocking fee.
What if the replacement AirPod does not pair with my case?
This is rare, but if it happens, reset your AirPods by holding the setup button on the back of the case for 15 seconds until the light flashes amber, then white. Place the new earbud in the case and hold the setup button again. If pairing still fails, contact Apple Support — the replacement may be defective.
Is it cheaper to buy a replacement or a new pair?
A single replacement costs $69 to $99. A new pair of standard AirPods costs $129, and AirPods Pro cost $249. If your remaining earbud is in good condition, a replacement is cheaper. If both earbuds are old or you want newer features, a new pair is often the better long-term choice.