AirPods replacement prices depend on which part you need and where you buy it

A single replacement AirPod earbud costs $69 from Apple, whether you lost one or it stopped working. A replacement charging case costs $59. If you need both earbuds replaced, Apple charges $138. These are the official prices through Apple's website, Apple retail stores, and Apple's phone support — prices do not vary by location within the United States.

Third-party retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and Walmart stock the same Apple replacement parts at the same prices. You can also mail your AirPods to Apple for repair or replacement; Apple will assess the damage and quote you a price, which is often lower than buying new parts if the issue is a manufacturing defect rather than physical damage or loss.

Prices for older AirPods models (AirPods 2, AirPods Pro first generation, AirPods Max) follow the same structure — single earbud or case replacement through Apple costs between $59 and $79 depending on the model. Replacement parts for discontinued models may be harder to find at retail, but Apple can still order them.

Key Takeaways

  • A single replacement AirPod earbud from Apple costs $69; a replacement case costs $59.
  • Apple's mail-in repair service may cost less than buying replacement parts if the damage qualifies as a manufacturing defect.
  • Third-party retailers sell the same official Apple replacement parts at identical prices.
  • Older AirPods models have replacement parts available through Apple at similar price points, though retail availability varies.

How to order replacement parts directly from Apple

Visit apple.com and search for "AirPods replacement" to see all available parts for your model. You will need to know which AirPods generation you own — check the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad, go to Bluetooth, tap the information icon next to your AirPods, and look for the model name. Apple's website will show you the exact part (left earbud, right earbud, or case) and the price.

You can order online and have the part shipped to your address, or you can visit an Apple Store and buy it in person. If you order online, delivery typically takes three to five business days. In-store pickup is usually available the same day if you order before 2 p.m. local time.

Apple also offers phone support at 1-800-MY-APPLE. A representative can confirm your AirPods model, tell you the exact price, and process your order over the phone. This route is useful if you are unsure which part you need or if you want to ask about repair options before buying.

When to choose repair instead of buying replacement parts

Apple's mail-in repair service costs $49 for most AirPods models, regardless of whether one earbud, both earbuds, or the case needs fixing. This is cheaper than buying a single replacement earbud ($69) if the problem is a manufacturing defect — a battery that will not hold a charge, a speaker that cuts out, or a hinge that breaks on its own. Accidental damage (water damage, physical drops, or cracks) is not covered by the standard warranty and will cost more.

To start a repair, go to apple.com/support, select your AirPods model, describe the problem, and choose the mail-in repair option. Apple will email you a prepaid shipping label. You pack your AirPods in a box, drop it at any UPS location, and Apple receives it within a few days. Repair turnaround is usually five to seven business days, plus shipping time both ways — plan for two to three weeks total.

If your AirPods are older than two years and the repair cost approaches the price of a new pair, Apple will sometimes offer a discounted replacement instead. Ask the support representative about this option before you commit to mail-in repair.

Buying replacement parts from retailers other than Apple

Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, and Target all stock official Apple AirPods replacement parts at the same prices as Apple's website. The advantage is convenience — you may be able to pick them up the same day at a local Best Buy, or you may already have an Amazon Prime membership that covers shipping. The disadvantage is that return policies vary by retailer, so check the return window before you buy.

Avoid third-party sellers on Amazon Marketplace who claim to sell "compatible" or "generic" AirPods replacement parts. These are not made by Apple and often do not work reliably with your AirPods. Stick to listings that clearly state they are official Apple parts, or buy directly from Apple to avoid the risk.

What to do if your AirPods are still under warranty

If you bought your AirPods within the last year, they are covered by Apple's one-year limited warranty. This covers manufacturing defects — a speaker that fails, a battery that does not charge, or a hinge that breaks — but not accidental damage or loss. If your AirPods have a defect, you do not have to pay for repair or replacement parts.

To check your warranty status, go to apple.com/support, enter your AirPods serial number (found in Settings > Bluetooth > AirPods info), and Apple will show you the coverage end date. If you are still covered, you can start a mail-in repair at no cost. If the warranty has expired, you will be quoted a repair price before Apple proceeds.

Comparing the cost of replacement parts to buying new AirPods

If both earbuds need replacement, the cost is $138 ($69 each). A new pair of AirPods 2 costs $129, so replacing both earbuds is more expensive than buying a new pair. In this case, buying new AirPods makes more financial sense. If only one earbud is damaged or lost, replacement at $69 is cheaper than a new pair.

For AirPods Pro (second generation), a single replacement earbud costs $79, and a new pair costs $249. For AirPods Max, a single earbud replacement costs $79, and a new pair costs $549. Always compare the cost of the parts you need against the cost of a new pair before you decide which route to take.

How to avoid needing replacement parts

The most common reason AirPods need replacement is water damage or loss. AirPods 2 and AirPods Pro are water-resistant but not waterproof — they can handle sweat and light rain, but not submersion or heavy water exposure. Do not wear them in the shower, pool, or ocean. If they get wet, dry them completely before putting them back in the case.

Keep your AirPods in their case when you are not wearing them. The case protects them from damage and keeps the battery charged. If you are prone to losing small items, consider using Apple's Find My feature — it shows the location of your AirPods on a map if they are within Bluetooth range of your iPhone or another Apple device. You can also play a sound to help you locate them in your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy just one AirPod earbud or do I have to buy a pair?

You can buy a single replacement earbud from Apple for $69. You do not have to buy a pair. This is useful if you lost one earbud or if only one stopped working. Apple will pair the new earbud to your case automatically when you put it in.

Do AirPods replacement parts come with a warranty?

Yes. Replacement parts sold by Apple come with a one-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. If the replacement earbud or case fails within one year, you can send it back for repair or replacement at no cost.

How long does it take to get a replacement part if I order online?

Standard shipping takes three to five business days. Express shipping is available for an additional fee and usually arrives in one to two business days. In-store pickup is available the same day if you order before 2 p.m. local time and your nearest Apple Store has the part in stock.

What if I lost my AirPods case but the earbuds still work?

You can buy a replacement case for $59 from Apple. The case will pair to your existing earbuds automatically. Without the case, you cannot charge your earbuds, so replacing it is necessary if you want to keep using them.

Are there cheaper alternatives to Apple's official replacement parts?

Third-party sellers on Amazon and eBay offer cheaper earbud replacements, but these are not made by Apple and often do not work reliably. Stick to official Apple parts to may support compatibility and quality. If cost is a concern, consider Apple's mail-in repair service ($49) instead of buying replacement parts.