Buy directly from Apple or a major retailer to avoid counterfeit chargers

AirPods Pro use a Lightning connector to charge, and you have three safe routes: Apple's official store (online or in-person), major electronics retailers like Best Buy or B&H Photo, or Amazon's official Apple store page. A genuine charger costs between $19 and $35 depending on whether you buy just the cable or the full charging case. Counterfeit chargers are common on third-party marketplaces and can damage your AirPods or create a fire hazard, so the extra cost for an official source is worth it.

If you need the charger today, Apple retail stores and Best Buy locations stock them in-store. If you order online, shipping typically takes three to five business days from Apple or two days with Amazon Prime. Check the seller name carefully on Amazon — it should say "Sold by Apple" or "Sold by Amazon.com", not a third-party seller, even if the price looks lower.

Key Takeaways

  • AirPods Pro chargers use a Lightning connector and cost $19 to $35 from official sources like Apple, Best Buy, or Amazon's official Apple store.
  • Counterfeit chargers sold on third-party marketplaces can damage your AirPods or pose a safety risk, so buy from a major retailer or Apple directly.
  • Apple stores and Best Buy have chargers in stock for same-day pickup in most locations, while online orders ship within three to five business days.
  • You can buy just the Lightning cable ($19) if your charging case is fine, or replace the entire charging case ($99) if it is damaged.

Understand what part you actually need to replace

AirPods Pro come with two separate charging components: the Lightning cable and the charging case itself. If your AirPods are not charging, figure out which one is broken before you buy. Plug the Lightning cable into a different USB power adapter — if your AirPods charge, the cable is fine and you do not need to replace anything. If they still do not charge, try a different Lightning cable in the same power adapter.

If a different cable works, you need a replacement Lightning cable ($19). If the cable works with other devices but not your AirPods, the charging case itself is damaged and you need to replace the entire case ($99). Apple does not sell the case separately from the AirPods, so you will be buying a full replacement pair if the case is the problem — though you can transfer your existing AirPods into the new case.

Check Apple's official store for the exact product you need

Go to apple.com and search for "AirPods Pro charging cable" or "AirPods Pro charging case". Apple lists three options: the Lightning to USB-C cable ($19), the Lightning to USB-A cable ($19), and the full AirPods Pro charging case ($99). The difference between USB-C and USB-A is which power adapter you already own — USB-C is the newer standard and comes with most modern chargers, while USB-A is the older rectangular connector. Check what port your existing power adapter has before you order.

On the product page, you will see "In Stock" or "Ships in [number] days". If it says in stock, you can choose to pick it up at a nearby Apple Store (usually ready within two hours) or have it shipped. Shipping to your address is free if you spend over $35, otherwise it costs $10. If the item is out of stock at Apple, move to Best Buy or B&H Photo — they restock frequently and often have faster shipping options.

Use Best Buy or B&H Photo if Apple is out of stock

Best Buy (bestbuy.com) and B&H Photo (bhphotovideo.com) both stock genuine AirPods Pro chargers and often have them in stock when Apple does not. Search for "AirPods Pro Lightning cable" on either site. Best Buy typically charges $19 to $25 and offers free two-day shipping with a free account, or same-day pickup at most locations. B&H Photo charges $19 to $22 and ships within one business day, though they are closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays.

Both retailers clearly label the product as "Official Apple" or "Genuine Apple" so you know you are not getting a counterfeit. Check the product photos to confirm the packaging shows the Apple logo and the Lightning connector — real chargers have a metal connector with eight small pins, not a plastic connector. If the price is significantly lower than $19, it is likely counterfeit and you should skip it.

Avoid third-party sellers and marketplace listings

Amazon, eBay, and Walmart's marketplace have many sellers offering AirPods Pro chargers at prices that look too good to be true — often $5 to $12. These are almost always counterfeit. Counterfeit chargers can overheat, fail to charge your AirPods, or damage the charging contacts inside your case. Some have caused fires or injuries because the internal wiring does not meet safety standards.

On Amazon, only buy from "Sold by Apple" or "Sold by Amazon.com" — never from a third-party seller, even if they have good reviews. On eBay and Walmart, there is no way to may provide authenticity, so avoid those platforms entirely for this product. The $10 you save is not worth the risk to your device or your safety.

Know what to do if your charger arrives damaged

Open the package as soon as it arrives and inspect the cable for visible damage — bent connectors, frayed wires, or cracked plastic. Plug it in and test it with your AirPods before the return window closes. If it does not work or arrived damaged, contact the retailer immediately. Apple, Best Buy, and B&H Photo all offer returns within 30 days, no questions asked. Amazon offers 30 days as well if you bought from the official Apple store.

Keep your receipt or order confirmation email until you have confirmed the charger works. If you need to return it, most retailers let you start a return online and will email you a shipping label. Best Buy and Apple Store locations also accept returns in person if you bought in-store. Do not attempt to repair a damaged charger yourself — buy a replacement instead.

Consider a USB-C cable if you have newer Apple devices

If you own a newer iPhone (15 or later), iPad, or Mac, you already have USB-C power adapters. Apple now sells AirPods Pro chargers with USB-C connectors ($19) instead of USB-A. A USB-C cable lets you use the same power adapter for all your devices, which is more convenient than keeping multiple cable types around. Check your power adapter before you order — if it has a rectangular USB-C port, buy the USB-C cable. If it has the older USB-A port (wider and flatter), buy the USB-A cable.

You cannot use a USB-C cable with a USB-A adapter, and vice versa. If you have both types of adapters at home, you could buy both cables ($38 total) and keep one in your bag and one at your desk. This is not necessary, but it saves you from hunting for the right cable when your AirPods need charging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any Lightning cable to charge my AirPods Pro?

Yes, any genuine Apple Lightning cable works with AirPods Pro. You do not need to buy the specific AirPods Pro cable — the one that came with an iPhone or iPad will work fine. Avoid cheap third-party Lightning cables, as they can damage your AirPods or fail to charge them properly.

What is the difference between the USB-A and USB-C AirPods Pro cables?

The only difference is the connector that plugs into your power adapter. USB-C is newer and comes with recent iPhones and iPads, while USB-A is older and comes with many existing chargers. Both charge AirPods Pro at the same speed. Buy whichever matches the power adapter you already own.

How long does it take to charge AirPods Pro with a replacement charger?

A genuine Apple charger takes about 15 to 20 minutes to fully charge AirPods Pro from empty. If your replacement charger is taking much longer, it may be counterfeit or defective — contact the retailer for a return.

Can I buy just the charging case without the AirPods?

Apple does not sell the charging case separately. If your case is damaged, you must buy a full replacement pair of AirPods Pro ($249). You can then transfer your existing AirPods into the new case, but you will have an extra pair left over.

Is it safe to use a third-party charger to save money?

No. Counterfeit chargers lack proper safety components and can overheat, fail to charge, or damage your AirPods. The $10 to $15 you save is not worth the risk. Stick with chargers from Apple, Best Buy, B&H Photo, or Amazon's official Apple store.