AirPod replacement prices depend on which model you own and where you buy
A single replacement AirPod costs between $69 and $99 depending on the model. AirPods Pro (2nd generation) replacements run $99 each. Standard AirPods cost $69 per earbud. AirPods Max, Apple's over-ear model, costs $399 to replace. If you need a replacement charging case instead of an earbud, expect to pay $29 to $79 depending on the model.
You can buy replacements directly from Apple, through Apple's website, or at authorized retailers like Best Buy and Target. Prices are the same everywhere Apple sets them, though some retailers occasionally run sales on the cases themselves rather than individual earbuds.
If your AirPods are still under the one-year limited warranty that comes with purchase, Apple may replace a defective earbud at no cost. Accidental damage and normal wear are not covered by the warranty, so you will pay the full replacement price for those situations.
Key Takeaways
- Single AirPod replacements cost $69 to $99 depending on model, and replacement cases cost $29 to $79.
- Apple's one-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects but not accidental damage or wear.
- You can buy replacements from Apple directly, Apple's website, or authorized retailers at the same price.
- AppleCare+ for AirPods covers accidental damage for a $29 service fee per incident, if you purchased the plan when you bought the AirPods.
How to order a replacement earbud or case from Apple
Visit apple.com and navigate to the AirPods section under Products. Select your model, then choose "Buy AirPods Replacement Parts." You will see options for individual earbuds, charging cases, and charging cables. Add the part you need to your cart and check out. Shipping typically takes three to five business days.
You can also walk into an Apple Store with your AirPods and ask for a replacement. The staff will verify which model you own and process the order on the spot. If the store has the part in stock, you may be able to take it home the same day, though this varies by location.
Authorized retailers like Best Buy and Target also stock AirPods replacement parts. Call ahead to confirm they have your specific model in stock, since inventory varies by store and model popularity.
What the warranty covers and what it does not
Apple's standard one-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects—a earbud that stops charging, a speaker that cuts out, or a case that fails to hold a charge due to a factory flaw. If you can demonstrate the problem started within the first year and you did not cause it, Apple will replace the part at no cost.
The warranty does not cover accidental damage (dropping, water exposure, crushing), normal wear from regular use, or cosmetic damage like scratches. It also does not cover loss or theft. If your AirPod fell in water or you sat on it, you will pay the full replacement price.
When you contact Apple about a warranty claim, be ready to describe the problem and when it started. Apple may ask you to troubleshoot over the phone or in person at a store before approving a replacement.
AppleCare+ and accidental damage coverage
AppleCare+ for AirPods is an optional protection plan you purchase when you buy your AirPods. The cost varies—typically $29 for standard AirPods and $49 for AirPods Pro—and covers two years of protection instead of one. More importantly, it covers accidental damage for a $29 service fee per incident.
If you have AppleCare+ and your AirPod gets wet, crushed, or otherwise damaged by accident, you contact Apple and pay the $29 fee. Apple will then send you a replacement. Without AppleCare+, you pay the full $69 to $99 replacement price for the same damage.
You can only buy AppleCare+ at the time of purchase or within 60 days of buying your AirPods. If you did not purchase it then, you cannot add it later. Check your receipt or Apple account to see whether you have it.
Comparing the cost of replacement versus buying new AirPods
If you lose one earbud and need a replacement, buying a single replacement ($69–$99) is cheaper than buying a new pair ($129–$549 depending on model). However, if both earbuds are damaged or lost, replacing both costs $138–$198, which is close to or more than buying a new pair on sale.
Check the current price of a new pair before ordering two replacements. Retailers sometimes discount full AirPods sets during sales events, making a new purchase a better value than two separate replacements. If you are buying a replacement case, the math is clearer: a case costs $29–$79, while a new pair with a case costs much more.
What to do if your AirPods are out of warranty
If your AirPods are older than one year or the damage is clearly accidental, you have three options: pay for a replacement part, buy a new pair, or contact Apple to ask about out-of-warranty service options.
Apple sometimes offers out-of-warranty replacement at a reduced price, though this is not may provide and depends on the specific situation. Call Apple Support or visit an Apple Store and explain what happened. They may offer a discount on the replacement price, though you should not expect it.
If the replacement cost is close to the price of a new pair, compare both options. A new pair may come with a warranty and fresh battery health, which can make it worth the extra cost depending on how old your current AirPods are.
Where to find your AirPods model and serial number
Before ordering a replacement, you need to know which AirPods model you own. Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad, go to Bluetooth, find your AirPods in the list, tap the information icon next to them, and look for the model name. It will say "AirPods," "AirPods Pro," "AirPods Max," or "AirPods (3rd generation)."
You will also need the serial number when contacting Apple about warranty service. You can find it in the same Settings menu under the model name. Write it down or take a screenshot before you call or visit the store.
If your AirPods are not connecting to your device, you can find the model and serial number on the original box or receipt, or by logging into your Apple Account and checking your purchase history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a single AirPod or do I have to buy a pair?
You can buy a single replacement earbud. Apple sells individual AirPods, not pairs, for $69 to $99 depending on the model. You do not have to purchase two.
How long does it take to get a replacement AirPod?
Online orders ship in three to five business days. If you order in an Apple Store and they have the part in stock, you may take it home the same day. Shipping time varies by location and current demand.
Will Apple replace my AirPod if I lost it instead of breaking it?
No. Loss and theft are not covered by the warranty or by AppleCare+. You will need to purchase a replacement at full price. Some renters or homeowners insurance policies cover lost electronics, so check your policy.
What if only the charging case is broken?
Replacement cases cost $29 to $79 depending on your AirPods model. You can order one from Apple's website or buy it in a store. The earbuds themselves will still work without the case, though you will not be able to charge them wirelessly.
Is there a cheaper way to replace AirPods?
Third-party sellers on marketplaces like eBay or Amazon sometimes sell used or refurbished AirPods at lower prices, but they do not come with Apple's warranty. Buying directly from Apple or an authorized retailer guarantees authenticity and warranty coverage.