You can replace one AirPod, but Apple sells them individually only through specific channels

If one of your AirPods stops working or gets lost, you do not have to buy a new pair. Apple sells individual AirPods, but the process is different depending on which model you own and where you buy. You cannot walk into a store and grab a single AirPod off the shelf — you have to order it, and the price is roughly half the cost of a full pair.

The catch is that Apple will only sell you a replacement if your AirPods are still under warranty or if you pay out of pocket. If your AirPod failed because of a manufacturing defect and you are still covered, Apple may replace it for free. If it is physical damage or normal wear, you will pay the replacement cost.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple sells individual AirPods through their website, the Apple Store app, or in-store at Apple retail locations, but not through most other retailers.
  • A single replacement AirPod costs roughly $69 to $99 depending on the model, which is about half the price of a full pair.
  • Your replacement AirPod will pair automatically with your existing AirPod and charging case once you take it out of the box.
  • If your AirPod failed within one year of purchase and the damage is not physical, Apple may replace it at no cost under the standard warranty.
  • AppleCare+ extends your coverage to two years and covers accidental damage, but adds cost upfront.

Where to buy a replacement AirPod

The most direct route is Apple's website. Go to apple.com, search for "AirPods replacement," and select your model. You will see options for the left AirPod, right AirPod, or charging case sold separately. Add the one you need to your cart and check out. Shipping usually takes three to five business days.

If you need it faster, visit an Apple Store in person. Call ahead to confirm they have your model in stock — not every location carries every replacement part. You can also order through the Apple Store app and pick it up the same day at a nearby store if inventory is available.

Do not buy from third-party retailers like Best Buy or Amazon for a replacement AirPod. These sellers typically do not stock individual AirPods, and if they do, you risk receiving a used or counterfeit unit. Stick with Apple directly.

How much a replacement costs

A single replacement AirPod costs between $69 and $99, depending on which generation you own. AirPods Pro replacements are more expensive than standard AirPods. The charging case, if you need to replace that instead, costs around $79 to $99.

These prices are for out-of-pocket purchases. If your AirPod is under warranty and the failure is not due to physical damage, Apple will replace it at no cost. Accidental damage — like water damage or a cracked case — is not covered by the standard one-year warranty, but it is covered if you have AppleCare+.

AppleCare+ for AirPods costs $29 upfront and extends your coverage to two years, including accidental damage. If you already own your AirPods and did not buy AppleCare+ when you purchased them, you can add it within 60 days of the original purchase date.

What happens when you get your replacement

When your new AirPod arrives, take it out of the box and hold it near your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. A setup screen will appear automatically. Tap "Connect" and your new AirPod will pair with your existing AirPod and charging case. You do not need to reset anything or manually add it to Bluetooth settings.

The replacement AirPod will inherit all your settings — audio balance, microphone preferences, and automatic ear detection — from your existing pair. If you use multiple devices, the new AirPod will work across all of them just like your original one did.

If the setup screen does not appear, open the lid of your charging case with both AirPods inside, hold it near your device, and wait a few seconds. If that does not work, go to Settings, then Bluetooth, find your AirPods in the list, tap the info icon, and select "Forget This Device." Then repeat the pairing process from the beginning.

When to choose warranty coverage instead of buying outright

If your AirPod is still under the one-year limited warranty and stopped working on its own — not because you dropped it or got it wet — contact Apple Support first. They can run diagnostics over the phone or through the Apple Support app to confirm the AirPod is defective. If it is, they will send you a replacement at no cost.

This is worth doing before you pay out of pocket, because the process is free and takes about the same amount of time as ordering a replacement yourself. Apple Support can be reached through apple.com/support, the Apple Support app, or by calling 1-800-MY-APPLE.

If your AirPods are out of warranty and you damage one accidentally, AppleCare+ becomes the better deal only if you plan to keep using them for at least another year. A single replacement costs $69 to $99, while AppleCare+ costs $29 and covers two years of accidental damage. If you think you might damage them again, the coverage is worth it.

Troubleshooting before you replace

Before you order a replacement, try a few quick fixes. Put both AirPods in the charging case, close the lid, and wait 15 seconds. Open the lid and take them out. Sometimes a full reset cycle restores connection.

If one AirPod is not charging, clean the metal contacts on both the AirPod and inside the charging case with a dry, lint-free cloth. Dirt or debris can block the connection. Let them charge for at least 15 minutes before testing.

If one AirPod is quiet or the sound cuts out, go to Settings, then Bluetooth, find your AirPods, tap the info icon, and check the audio balance slider. If it is all the way to one side, drag it back to the middle. Also check that both AirPods are seated properly in your ears — a loose fit can sound like one side is not working.

What to do with your old AirPod

Once your replacement arrives and is working, you have an old AirPod that no longer pairs. Do not throw it away — take it to an Apple Store or mail it to Apple for recycling. Apple will break it down and recover materials like aluminum and rare earth elements.

If the old AirPod still works but you do not need it, you can sell it online through eBay or Facebook Marketplace, though the resale value is low. Most buyers want a matched pair, so a single working AirPod typically sells for $20 to $40.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a replacement AirPod without proof of purchase?

Yes. Apple does not require proof of purchase to sell you a replacement AirPod. However, if you want to use warranty coverage instead of paying out of pocket, you will need to provide proof of purchase or the serial number of your original AirPods to confirm the warranty is still active.

Will a replacement AirPod work with my old charging case?

Yes. A replacement AirPod is designed to work with any charging case from the same generation. If you have AirPods Pro, a replacement AirPod Pro will work with your existing AirPods Pro case. The pairing is automatic and requires no setup.

What if I lost an AirPod instead of it breaking?

You can still buy a replacement through Apple. The process is the same — order a single AirPod and it will pair with your remaining AirPod and case. Apple does not charge more for a lost AirPod than a broken one.

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

Yes, within 14 days of purchase. If you ordered online, you can start a return through your Apple account. If you bought in-store, bring the AirPod and receipt back to the Apple Store. Refunds are processed within a few business days.

Do I need to update my AirPods after replacing one?

No. Your replacement AirPod will automatically update to the latest firmware when it pairs with your iPhone or other device. You do not need to do anything manually.