AirPod replacement costs depend on which model you own and what part you need

A single replacement AirPod costs between $69 and $99, depending on whether you own the standard AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, or another model. The charging case alone runs $79 to $99. If you need both an AirPod and its case replaced, you're looking at $150 to $200 total. Apple does not sell individual left or right AirPods at different prices — a replacement is the same cost regardless of which side you lost.

The exact price varies by model because each generation of AirPods has different hardware inside. AirPods Pro (2nd generation) replacements cost more than standard AirPods, and AirPods Max — the over-ear model — costs the most. You can check your model by opening the Settings app on your iPhone, tapping Bluetooth, and looking at which AirPods appear in your list.

Key Takeaways

  • A single replacement AirPod costs $69 to $99 depending on your model, and Apple charges the same price whether you lost the left or right one.
  • Replacement charging cases cost $79 to $99 and are sold separately from the AirPods themselves.
  • You can order replacements directly from Apple's website, through an Apple Store, or by calling Apple Support at 1-800-MY-APPLE.
  • AppleCare+ covers accidental damage to AirPods for a $29 service fee per incident, which is cheaper than buying a full replacement pair.
  • If your AirPods are still under the one-year limited warranty and the problem is a defect (not loss or damage), Apple may replace them at no cost.

Pricing for each AirPod model

Standard AirPods (3rd generation) cost $69 per replacement AirPod and $79 for the charging case. AirPods Pro (2nd generation) cost $89 per AirPod and $99 for the case. AirPods Max, the premium over-ear model, cost $99 per AirPod and $99 for the charging case. These prices are set by Apple and do not vary between retailers — you'll pay the same amount whether you order online or walk into a store.

Older models like AirPods Pro (1st generation) or AirPods Max may have different pricing if they're still available for purchase. If you're unsure which generation you own, Apple's support website has a tool to identify your model by the serial number printed inside the charging case.

How to order a replacement

The fastest way to order is through Apple's website. Go to apple.com, click Support, search for "AirPods replacement," and select your model. You can add a replacement to your cart and check out in minutes. Shipping typically takes 3 to 5 business days, though expedited options are available for an extra fee.

If you prefer to handle it in person, visit an Apple Store and bring your charging case or the remaining AirPod. A staff member will verify your model and process the order on the spot. You can also call Apple Support at 1-800-MY-APPLE and order over the phone — they'll ship the replacement to your address.

What the warranty covers

AirPods come with a one-year limited warranty that covers manufacturing defects — things like a speaker that stops working or a battery that won't hold a charge. If one of your AirPods fails within a year and the problem is a defect, not physical damage or loss, Apple will replace it at no cost. You'll need proof of purchase, which can be a receipt or your Apple ID purchase history.

The warranty does not cover lost, stolen, or damaged AirPods. If you dropped them or they got wet, you'll pay the full replacement price. This is where AppleCare+ becomes relevant: if you bought it when you purchased your AirPods, accidental damage is covered for a $29 service fee per incident.

AppleCare+ and whether it makes sense

AppleCare+ for AirPods costs $29 upfront and covers accidental damage, loss, and theft for two years. If you damage your AirPods and have AppleCare+, you pay a $29 service fee and Apple sends a replacement. Without AppleCare+, a replacement costs $69 to $99. The math is straightforward: if you think there's a real chance you'll lose or damage your AirPods within two years, AppleCare+ pays for itself after one claim.

You can buy AppleCare+ when you purchase your AirPods, or within 60 days of purchase if you didn't add it at the time. After 60 days, it's no longer available. If you already lost your AirPods and are buying replacements now, you cannot add AppleCare+ retroactively.

Checking your warranty status

To see whether your AirPods are still under warranty, go to apple.com/support, click "Check Coverage," and enter your AirPods' serial number. The serial number is printed inside the charging case lid. Apple will show you the coverage end date and whether AppleCare+ is active on that device.

If your AirPods are out of warranty and you don't have AppleCare+, you'll pay the full replacement price. There's no discount for out-of-warranty replacements — Apple charges the same amount whether your AirPods are one year old or five years old.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy just one AirPod instead of a pair?

Yes. Apple sells individual replacement AirPods at the same price as a pair would cost per unit. You do not have to buy both left and right — order whichever one you need.

What if I lost my AirPods and don't have AppleCare+?

You'll pay the full replacement price: $69 to $99 per AirPod depending on your model. There is no discount for loss or damage outside of warranty. If you're buying a replacement pair, you may want to add AppleCare+ this time so future damage is covered.

Do third-party sellers charge less for replacement AirPods?

No. Only Apple sells official replacement AirPods, and the price is the same everywhere — apple.com, Apple Stores, and authorized retailers all charge the same amount. Cheaper listings online are either counterfeit or refurbished units sold by third parties, not official replacements.

How long does it take to get a replacement after I order?

Standard shipping takes 3 to 5 business days. If you order in an Apple Store, you can sometimes pick up the replacement the same day or next day, depending on stock. Call ahead to confirm availability before visiting.

Will Apple replace my AirPods if only one side has sound?

If the problem is a defect and your AirPods are under warranty, yes — Apple will replace the faulty AirPod at no cost. If they're out of warranty or the damage is physical, you'll pay the replacement price. Contact Apple Support with your serial number to determine whether your issue qualifies as a defect.