Yes, you can buy a single replacement AirPod from Apple, but the cost and process depend on which model you own and whether your device is still under warranty.

Apple sells individual AirPods through its website, in Apple Stores, and through authorized retailers. A single AirPod costs between $69 and $99 depending on the model — roughly half the price of a full pair. If your AirPod is damaged or the battery no longer holds a charge, this is usually cheaper than replacing both.

The catch is that Apple will not replace a lost AirPod under warranty. If you lost one, you must buy a replacement at full price. If one stopped working due to a defect within one year of purchase, Apple may replace it for free, but you will need proof of purchase and the original packaging or serial number.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple sells single replacement AirPods for $69 to $99 depending on the model, which is cheaper than buying a new pair.
  • Warranty coverage applies only to defects, not loss or damage — a broken AirPod may be free to replace, but a lost one will not be.
  • You can order a replacement online, buy one in an Apple Store, or contact Apple Support to start a warranty claim.
  • Third-party sellers sometimes offer used or refurbished single AirPods at lower prices, but they carry no Apple warranty.
  • Before ordering, confirm your AirPod model by checking Settings on your iPhone or iPad, because the price and compatibility vary.

How to find your AirPod model and price

Open Settings on your iPhone or iPad, go to Bluetooth, and tap the information icon next to your AirPods. The model name will appear — you might own AirPods Pro, AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Max, AirPods 3, or an older generation. Write down the exact name, because prices differ by model.

Visit apple.com and search for "replacement AirPod" plus your model name. The page will show the current price for a single unit. AirPods Pro 2 replacements cost $99 each; standard AirPods 3 cost $69. Older models like AirPods 2 or AirPods Pro (first generation) may be harder to find in stock but are usually cheaper when available.

Warranty replacement versus paid replacement

If your AirPod stopped working within one year of purchase and the failure is not your fault — the speaker is silent, the microphone does not work, or the battery drains in minutes — you may be covered under Apple's one-year limited warranty. Contact Apple Support through the Support app on your iPhone, call 1-800-MY-APPLE, or visit an Apple Store with your device and proof of purchase.

Apple will ask you to describe the problem and may run a diagnostic test on your device. If they confirm a defect, they will replace the AirPod at no cost. This process usually takes a few days to a week. If the AirPod is lost, physically damaged, or the warranty has expired, you will pay full price.

Buying a replacement online or in store

To order online, go to apple.com, find the replacement AirPod for your model, and add it to your cart. You will need to provide your shipping address and payment method. Delivery usually takes three to five business days. You can also choose in-store pickup at an Apple Store if one is near you — this is often faster and lets you confirm the model before you buy.

In an Apple Store, tell a staff member which AirPod you need to replace and which model you own. They will pull the correct item from inventory, ring it up, and you can leave with it the same day. Bring your device with you so they can verify the model if you are unsure.

What to do if your replacement AirPod does not pair

A new AirPod should pair automatically when you open the charging case near your iPhone or iPad. If it does not, open Settings, go to Bluetooth, and tap "Forget" next to your AirPods. Then open the case again and hold the setup button on the back for 15 seconds until the light flashes white. Your device should recognize it as a new AirPod ready to pair.

If pairing still fails, restart your iPhone or iPad and try again. If the new AirPod still will not connect, contact Apple Support — there may be a compatibility issue or a defect with the replacement unit itself.

Cheaper alternatives to Apple replacements

Third-party marketplaces like eBay, Amazon, and Best Buy sometimes sell used or refurbished single AirPods at discounts of 20 to 40 percent below Apple's price. These are usually legitimate but carry no warranty from Apple. Before buying, check the seller's return policy and read reviews from other buyers who purchased the same item.

Some sellers offer AirPods pulled from damaged pairs or returned devices. These work normally but may have cosmetic marks. If you are willing to accept that trade-off, the savings can be significant — a used AirPod Pro might cost $50 to $65 instead of $99.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return a single AirPod I just bought?

Yes. Apple's return window is 14 days from purchase. If you bought it online, you can start a return through your Apple account or contact Apple Support. In-store purchases can be returned to the same store with your receipt. Refunds are issued to your original payment method within five to seven business days.

Will a replacement AirPod work with my old charging case?

Yes, as long as the new AirPod is the same generation as your case. An AirPod Pro 2 will work with an AirPod Pro 2 case, but an AirPod Pro 2 will not work with an older AirPod Pro case. Check your model name before ordering to make sure they match.

What if I lost an AirPod and do not have the other one anymore?

You will need to buy a replacement pair, not a single AirPod. Apple does not sell single AirPods to customers who have lost both. If you want to keep using the remaining AirPod, you can buy a new pair and use the old one as a spare, but that is more expensive than replacing just the lost one would have been.

How long does a replacement AirPod battery last?

A new AirPod has the same battery life as the original — typically five to six hours of listening time per charge for standard AirPods, and up to six hours for AirPods Pro. Battery performance may degrade after two to three years of daily use, but a brand-new replacement should perform like a new device.