AirPod replacement costs depend on which part failed and your warranty status

A single AirPod costs $69 to replace through Apple, while a replacement charging case runs $59. If both AirPods are damaged, buying a new pair ($129 to $249 depending on the model) is often cheaper than replacing them individually. These are Apple's official prices; third-party sellers sometimes offer lower rates, but you lose the may provide that the part will work with your specific model.

Your warranty status matters. If your AirPods are still under the one-year limited warranty and the damage is a manufacturing defect—not accidental damage—Apple replaces them at no cost. If the damage is your fault (dropped, water damage, physical wear), you pay the full replacement price. AppleCare+ for AirPods costs $29 upfront and covers accidental damage for $29 per incident, which can save money if you're accident-prone.

Key Takeaways

  • A single AirPod replacement costs $69; a charging case costs $59 through Apple's official channel.
  • If both AirPods need replacement, purchasing a new pair at $129 to $249 is usually cheaper than replacing them one at a time.
  • Manufacturing defects covered under the one-year warranty are replaced free; accidental damage costs the full replacement price.
  • AppleCare+ costs $29 upfront and reduces accidental damage claims to $29 each, making it worthwhile only if you expect multiple incidents.

Where to buy replacements and what to expect

Apple's official channels—the Apple Store, apple.com, or Apple's phone support—may provide you receive the correct part for your model. You can also order through carriers like Verizon or AT&T if you bought your AirPods there, though shipping may take longer. Third-party retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and Walmart stock AirPod replacements, often at the same price as Apple but without Apple's return may provide.

Ordering online typically arrives within three to five business days. In-store pickup at an Apple Store is faster if one is near you. If you mail in your damaged AirPod, Apple usually processes the replacement within five to seven business days after they receive it, plus shipping time back to you.

Pricing for different AirPod models

Replacement costs vary slightly by model. Standard AirPods (3rd generation) cost $69 per earbud or $59 for the case. AirPods Pro (2nd generation) are also $69 per earbud or $59 for the case. AirPods Max, Apple's over-ear headphones, cost $579 to replace entirely, but individual parts like the ear cushions ($79) or headband ($99) can be swapped without buying a new unit.

Older models like AirPods Pro (1st generation) and AirPods Max (original) follow the same per-earbud and case pricing, though availability may be limited as Apple phases out support. If you own an older model and replacement parts are no longer stocked, Apple may offer a discount on a newer model instead.

When AppleCare+ makes financial sense

AppleCare+ for AirPods costs $29 at purchase and covers two accidental damage incidents at $29 each over two years. This means your maximum out-of-pocket for two accidents is $87 total. Without AppleCare+, two accidental damages cost $138 (two replacements at $69 each). AppleCare+ breaks even after one accident claim.

The coverage does not include loss or theft, only damage. If you regularly drop your AirPods, use them in harsh environments, or have a history of breaking electronics, AppleCare+ pays for itself quickly. If you're careful with your devices, the $29 upfront cost is unlikely to save you money over two years.

Repair versus replacement: what Apple will and won't fix

Apple does not repair individual AirPods—they replace them. If one earbud has a hardware problem, Apple sends you a replacement earbud, not a repaired one. The same applies to the charging case. This means you cannot get a discount for a partial fix; you pay the full replacement price or nothing.

Battery degradation is not covered under warranty after the first year. If your AirPods hold a charge for only a few hours instead of the original five to six, Apple will not replace them free. You either buy new ones or accept the shorter battery life.

How to check if your AirPods are still under warranty

Visit apple.com/support and enter your AirPods' serial number, which you can find in the Settings app on your iPhone under Bluetooth. Apple will show you the purchase date and warranty expiration. You can also call Apple Support at 1-800-MY-APPLE and provide your serial number; they will tell you when ready whether you're covered.

If you bought your AirPods more than a year ago and do not have AppleCare+, you are out of warranty and will pay full price for any replacement. Keep your receipt or proof of purchase in case you need to dispute the warranty date.

Alternatives to buying from Apple

Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart sell replacement AirPods at Apple's official prices, but their return policies differ. Best Buy offers a 15-day return window; Amazon offers 30 days. If you buy a replacement and it does not work with your device, these retailers make returns easier than ordering directly from Apple.

Refurbished AirPods from certified resellers cost 10 to 20 percent less than new ones and come with a limited warranty, usually 90 days. These are safe if you do not mind a slightly used product, but they carry less protection than new units. Avoid unmarked third-party sellers on marketplaces; counterfeit AirPods are common and will not connect reliably to your device.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace just one AirPod if only one is broken?

Yes. Apple sells individual replacement AirPods for $69 each. You do not have to buy a new pair. However, if both are damaged, buying a new pair at $129 to $249 is usually cheaper than two individual replacements at $138 total.

Does AppleCare+ cover lost or stolen AirPods?

No. AppleCare+ covers accidental damage only—drops, water damage, and physical wear. If you lose your AirPods or they are stolen, you must buy a replacement pair at full price. Some homeowner or renter insurance policies cover electronics loss, so check your policy.

What if my AirPods break right after the one-year warranty ends?

You pay the full replacement price: $69 per earbud or $59 for the case. Apple's one-year limited warranty does not extend beyond 12 months unless you purchased AppleCare+. If the failure is clearly a manufacturing defect (not accidental damage), contact Apple Support anyway; they sometimes make exceptions for products that fail when ready after warranty expiration.

Are refurbished replacement AirPods safe to buy?

Refurbished AirPods from Apple or certified resellers are safe and function identically to new ones. They come with a limited warranty, usually 90 days. Avoid unmarked refurbished units from unknown sellers; counterfeit AirPods are widespread and often fail to pair correctly or hold a charge.

How long does it take to get a replacement if I mail in my broken AirPods?

Apple typically processes mail-in replacements within five to seven business days after receiving your damaged unit, plus shipping time to your address. Total time is usually 10 to 14 days. In-store replacement or pickup is faster if an Apple Store is nearby.