Apple first launched the AirPods in December 2016, allowing users to listen to audio streamed from their iPhone or another Bluetooth device without the hassle of untangling a mess of EarPods wires. The second-generation AirPods Pro were announced in fall 2022 with an upgraded H2 chip that provides up to twice as much active noise cancellation, and in fall 2023 a new USB-C model was introduced.
In September 2024, Apple updated the AirPods lineup again, introducing the AirPods 4 with a refined fit and improved audio. This version of the AirPods also comes in two models: a base model for $129 and a model with Active Noise Cancellation for $179.
Apple released an updated version of the AirPods Pro 2 in September 2023. They include a USB-C port on the MagSafe Charging Case, improved dust resistance, and support for lossless audio with the Vision Pro headset. Otherwise, these are the same as the 2022 model.
Following the AirPods Pro, Apple revealed the AirPods Max, a pair of over-ear Bluetooth headphones that are set as the high-end alternative for the AirPods line, with active noise cancellation, spatial audio, and adaptive EQ. AirPods Max are priced at $549. Apple updated the AirPods Max in September 2024 with a USB-C port and new colors.
In this guide, you'll find the best currently available deals for AirPods, and since Black Friday is approaching, this includes quite a few all-time low prices. Right, now Apple's brand-new AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C are $199.99 ($49 off) and the AirPods 2 are $99.00 ($29 off). These are both solid discounts, and we're expecting even more to arrive as Black Friday approaches.
AirPods 2
The AirPods 2 are the entry-level model of the AirPods lineup, and they're typically sold around $99 on sale. It comes with a Lightning Charging Case, 24 hours of battery life with the Charging Case, and up to five hours of listening time with a single charge. They may lack fancier features and improved battery life of the newer models, but at such a low price tag, they're the perfect gift for the average music fan.
We're not tracking any current discount on the AirPods 2.
AirPods Pro 2
The AirPods Pro 2 was announced in fall 2022. It keeps the same design as the previous generation with a few key changes, including Touch Controls on the stem and improved active noise cancellation.
Apple refreshed the AirPods Pro 2 with a USB-C/MagSafe Charging Case in fall 2023. It's the same exact design as the 2022 model, but comes with a few minor additions like improved dust resistance and support for lossless audio with the Vision Pro headset. The biggest change is the USB-C port on the MagSafe Charging Case, replacing the previous Lightning port.
AirPods 3
The AirPods 3 come with an all-new design and improved sound quality. Overall, this model is designed very similarly to the AirPods Pro, but without silicone eartips or Active Noise Cancelation. You can opt for the AirPods 3 with Lightning Charging Case ($169.00) or AirPods 3 with MagSafe Charging Case ($179.00).
AirPods 4
Apple's newest AirPods model, the AirPods 4, come in two models: one base model at $129 and one with Active Noise Cancellation at $179. These are available for pre-order right now, and will be released on September 20.
Because they're so new, we don't expect deals on the AirPods 4 for a while yet.
AirPods Max
AirPods Max are different from all the other AirPods models thanks to their large, over-ear design. This also means they come with the highest price tag of the bunch, although we've seen solid deals since their 2020 launch.
It's also worth noting that as of September 2024, there are now two models of the AirPods Max: the original and a new one with USB-C charging. You can pre-order the USB-C model right now, but we aren't tracking any deals yet.
We follow deals on AirPods and much more over in our full Deals Roundup, so head there for even more information on the latest bargains related to Apple products and accessories.
