A single replacement AirPod costs $69 for the standard model, $99 for AirPods Pro, and $79 for AirPods Max ear cups

Apple sells individual AirPods through their website, Apple Stores, and authorized retailers. The price depends on which model you own. If you've lost or damaged one earbud, you don't have to buy a full pair — you can replace just that one piece. The replacement comes with a new charging case if you buy a full pair, but a single earbud arrives alone.

Prices vary slightly by region and occasionally change, so check Apple's website for your country before ordering. You'll need to know your exact AirPod model to order the right replacement, since the parts are not interchangeable between generations.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard AirPods cost $69 to replace individually, while AirPods Pro cost $99 per earbud.
  • Apple sells replacements directly through their website, Apple Stores, and authorized retailers without requiring proof of purchase.
  • A replacement earbud arrives without a charging case unless you buy a full pair.
  • You need to identify your exact AirPod model and generation before ordering, since parts don't work across different versions.
  • AppleCare+ for AirPods covers accidental damage and loss for a lower out-of-pocket cost per incident than buying a replacement outright.

How to identify which AirPod model you own

Open the Settings app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac and go to Bluetooth. Find your AirPods in the list and tap the information icon next to them. The model name appears there — you'll see "AirPods", "AirPods (2nd generation)", "AirPods Pro", "AirPods Pro (2nd generation)", "AirPods Max", or "AirPods (3rd generation)". Write this down before you order.

If you no longer have a device paired with your AirPods, check the original box or receipt. The model is printed on the packaging. You can also call Apple Support with your serial number and they'll tell you which model you have.

Where to buy a replacement AirPod

Apple's official website lets you order a single replacement earbud and have it shipped to your address. You can also walk into an Apple Store and buy one on the spot if you have one nearby. Both routes take payment immediately and don't require proof of purchase — Apple doesn't verify that you actually own the other earbud.

Authorized Apple retailers like Best Buy, Target, and Walmart also stock individual AirPod replacements at the same prices. Call ahead to confirm they have your specific model in stock, since smaller locations may not carry every generation.

What AppleCare+ covers instead

If you bought AppleCare+ for your AirPods when you first purchased them, accidental damage and loss are covered. You pay a service fee per incident — usually $29 for standard AirPods or $29 for AirPods Pro — instead of the full replacement price. AppleCare+ costs $29 upfront for two years of coverage on standard AirPods and $39 for AirPods Pro.

You can still buy AppleCare+ after purchase if your AirPods are less than 60 days old. If you already have it, contact Apple Support to file a claim rather than buying a replacement directly. They'll either send you a replacement or credit your account, depending on your situation.

Charging case replacement costs

If you've lost or damaged the charging case but your AirPods still work, you can buy a replacement case separately. A standard AirPods case costs $39, an AirPods Pro case costs $49, and an AirPods Max case costs $79. The case arrives without AirPods inside.

Some people find third-party cases cheaper, but they don't work with wireless charging on models that support it, and Apple doesn't may provide compatibility. Sticking with Apple's official case ensures your AirPods will charge properly and the fit will be exact.

How long replacement AirPods take to arrive

If you order online from Apple, standard shipping usually takes 5 to 7 business days depending on your location. Express and overnight options are available at checkout for an additional fee. Buying in an Apple Store means you walk out with the replacement the same day.

Authorized retailers have varying shipping times — Best Buy offers same-day pickup at many locations if the item is in stock, while other retailers may take 3 to 5 business days. Check the retailer's shipping policy before you order.

What to do if your AirPod won't hold a charge

If one AirPod stops charging but isn't physically damaged, it may be a battery issue rather than a lost piece. Contact Apple Support first — they can run diagnostics and may send you a replacement under warranty if the earbud is less than one year old. You won't pay for a replacement if the battery failed on its own.

If your AirPods are older than one year and out of warranty, you'll pay the full replacement price. Battery degradation is normal and not covered by the standard one-year warranty unless there's a manufacturing defect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy just one AirPod without buying a whole new pair?

Yes. Apple sells individual earbuds for $69 (standard), $99 (Pro), or $79 (3rd generation) without requiring you to buy a full pair. You order through Apple's website, an Apple Store, or an authorized retailer. The single earbud arrives without a charging case.

Do I need a receipt to buy a replacement AirPod?

No. Apple doesn't ask for proof of purchase when you buy a replacement earbud. You can walk into a store or order online without documentation. They assume you own the other one.

Will a replacement AirPod from a newer generation work with my older AirPods?

No. AirPods from different generations are not compatible with each other. A second-generation AirPod won't pair with first-generation AirPods. You must buy a replacement from the same generation as the earbud you still own.

Is it cheaper to buy AppleCare+ or just replace the AirPod when it breaks?

It depends on how many times you need a replacement. AppleCare+ costs $29 to $39 upfront for two years and covers two incidents at $29 each. If you lose or damage your AirPods once, buying a replacement directly is cheaper. If you damage them twice, AppleCare+ saves you money.

Can I return a replacement AirPod if I change my mind?

Apple allows returns within 14 days of purchase if the item is unused and in original packaging. Once you've paired a replacement earbud to your device, it's considered used and can't be returned for a refund, though you may be able to exchange it for a different model.