Apple makes some of our favorite high-quality wireless earbuds and headphones, and the company has a history of producing expensive hardware. Buying a pair of AirPods often costs more than we’d like, and Apple’s sub-brand Beats doesn’t offer anything anyone would call a budget alternative. But AirPods and Beats earbuds and headphones can often be found for less than you might expect, and we’ve rounded up the best savings right here.
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Apple AirPods Price 2024
| model | Apple Store Price | Best price now | Best price ever |
|---|---|---|---|
| AirPods 2 | $129 | $89 | 79 dollars |
| AirPods 3 | $169 | $140 | $140 |
| AirPods Pro (2nd generation) | $249 | $199 | $180 |
| AirPods Max | $549 | $399 | $389 |
Best AirPods Deals
The latest AirPods Pro are some of the best noise-cancelling earphones on the market, and a top choice for Apple users.
This model includes USB-C and a MagSafe charging case, but is nearly identical to the excellent AirPods Pro 2 that come with a Lightning case, with one key difference: Those who buy the Vision Pro headset will benefit from lossless audio when connecting these earbuds. This may be an exception, but it’s still worth noting, especially if Apple adds the same feature to future iPhones and other hardware.
Battery life Rated up to 20 hoursNoise Reduction Yes (ANC)Multipoint noHeadphone type Over-Ear Wireless HeadphonesWaterproof No IP rating
Apple’s first full-size headphones are packed with advanced features like noise cancellation, spatial audio, and easy integration with Apple devices. Yes, paying almost the same price as the PS5 may sound like a lot, but it’s actually worth it—as long as you don’t mind the lack of support for full lossless audio. Pricing currently depends on the color you choose. The lowest price right now is the green variant.
Read our AirPods Max review.
Battery life Rated up to 5 hoursNoise Reduction noMultipoint noHeadphone type wireless earbudsWaterproof Yes (IPX4 — Waterproof)
The AirPods 2 are the least advanced AirPods on the market, but they still pack impressive specs and are a great choice for those on a budget. They feature the same H1 chip as the AirPods 3, giving you the same fast connectivity and hands-free Siri access.
Read our AirPods 2 review.
Battery life Rated up to 9 hoursNoise Reduction noMultipoint noHeadphone type wireless earbudsWaterproof Yes (IPX4 — Waterproof)
If you’re an active person, the Powerbeats Pro might be the best headphones for you. With their over-ear design and internally fitting tips, you get a great fit and great audio. The charging case is larger than others, but since you’ll likely be carrying it around in your bag anyway, that’s not a big deal.
Read our Beats Powerbeats Pro review.
Battery life Rated up to 12 hoursNoise Reduction noMultipoint noHeadphone type wireless earbudsWaterproof No IP rating
These Beats Flex earbuds are a great choice for those who want a wireless listening experience without the bulky headphones. They’re perfect for listening to your favorite podcasts while working out, on calls, or commuting. Plus, most versions are currently on Amazon for $39, giving you high-quality earbuds without the high price tag.
Read our Beats Flex review.
Battery life Rated up to 40 hoursNoise Reduction Yes (ANC)Multipoint noHeadphone type Over-Ear Wireless HeadphonesWaterproof No IP rating
These aren’t AirPods themselves, but I included them because Beats is owned by Apple. The Beats Studio Pro are a great alternative to the Apple AirPods Max without sacrificing quality. They offer up to 40 hours of battery life, noise cancellation, and pair easily with a variety of operating systems, including Android.
Best Buy offers three months of Apple TV Plus, Apple Music, and Apple Fitness Plus, as well as four months of Apple Arcade.
Which AirPods are right for you?
Apple’s wireless audio lineup now includes five. AirPods ModelAnd choosing the right set will depend on which features you care about and how much you’re willing to pay. While 2019’s second-generation AirPods are the most affordable option, the current third-generation AirPods boast better sound quality with spatial audio. Meanwhile, the AirPods Pro 2, with active noise cancellation and Transparency mode, are Apple’s most advanced earbuds yet and are the first to feature Apple’s new H2 chip. The priciest, most luxurious AirPods Max are Apple’s over-ear headphones and, while they lack the H2 chip, are packed with advanced features.
Along with the Apple-branded AirPods, there are a few Beats-branded earbuds worth considering that incorporate Apple-made tech for a similarly seamless experience. These include the Beats Fit Pro, which uses Apple’s H1 chip for a fast, reliable connection and a sporty design that’s perfect for jamming while you run or otherwise get active. The Beats Studio Buds don’t have the H1 chip or stem of the AirPods, but they’re lightweight, comfortable, and affordable. Likewise, the updated Beats Studio Buds Plus don’t have the H1 chip, but they do have one-touch pairing with Apple (and Android) devices and Find My support.
All AirPods listed above (including Beats models) except the original AirPods 2 are compatible with: Apple’s spatial audio feature. None of them offer the highest quality. Apple’s lossless audio formatThis is too powerful for the current Bluetooth wireless standard to handle.
Look at this: AirPods Pro 2 Review: A Can’t-Beat for Apple Users