You don’t have to pay full price for Apple’s top-rated earbuds and headphones — here’s how to get them at a discount
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Apple‘s top-selling AirPods (and wired EarPods) are a staple in most of our pockets or bags, and for good reason. The headphones and earbuds are not only some of the best-looking audio devices on the market, but they also deliver sharp sound quality and better integration with Apple devices than options from other brands.
But Apple knows just how much we all love AirPods, and they price the earbuds and headphones accordingly. Retail prices for the AirPods line generally range from $129 for the Apple AirPods 4 to close to $550 for the AirPods Pro Max headphones.
At a Glance: Best Apple AirPods Deals
- Best AirPods 3 Deal: 16% off on Staples, now $149 (was $179)
- Best AirPods 4 Deal: 8% off on Amazon, now $119 (was $129)
- Best AirPods 4 (ANC) Deal: 6% off on Amazon, now $169 (was $179)
- Best AirPods Pro 2 Deal: 38% off on Amazon, now $153.99
- Best AirPods Max Deal: 27% off on Amazon, now $399.99 (was $549)
However, here’s a secret: You don’t have to pay full price for Apple AirPods. Whether you’re looking for affordable basic AirPods, AirPods Pros, or top-of-the-line AirPods Max headphones, there’s almost always somewhere to find them at a discount. Read on for a full guide on scoring AirPods deals (before they’re gone).
Best Apple AirPods Deals
AirPods 3 Deal
The previous generation of AirPods, the 3s, are still a great pair of earbuds — especially if you can find them discounted, like they are right now on Staples. The office supplies store currently has the AirPods 3s available for $149, down from $179. Although they’re a step behind the AirPods 4 in terms of overall technology and sound quality, they’re still easily comparable to most earbuds out there.
AirPods Pro 2 Deals
If you’re looking for noise-cancelling earbuds, it’s hard to beat the AirPods Pro 2s. Even compared to more expensive noise-cancelling headphones, I find the AirPods Pros to block more sound while offering excellent, rich sound for such a small package. Their easy connectivity, style, and noise-cancellation powers make the AirPods Pro 2 some of our favorite earbuds.
AirPods Max Deals
Apple’s AirPods Max combine great audio quality in a premium over-ear headphone design. They feature active noise cancelling to help seal off outside noise when you’re listening to music or taking a call. Switch over to “transparency mode” when you want to listen to music but still hear the environment around you (say, to hear traffic while you’re running or to chat with a co-worker).
Apple AirPods 4 Deal
Apple’s entry-level earbuds are the AirPods 4. Although they don’t have active noise-cancellation (like the rest of the current lineup), they deliver excellent sound quality and the easy connectivity Apple is known for. Plus, these new ones feature Spatial Audio for an immersive experience. I actually prefer the non-ANC earbuds for running and going to the gym. I feel a little more aware of my surroundings and breath, but still get the same great audio I expect while exercising.
Since they’re fairly new, AirPods 4 deals are rare. Right now, however, you can pick them up at Amazon or Walmart for $10 less than retail.
Apple AirPods 4 (ANC) Deal
You can also get the AirPods 4 with ANC, offering a good middle option (price-wise) between the regular AirPods 4 and the AirPods Pro 2. They’re just like the earbuds above, only you get excellent noise-cancellation powers that can be toggled on or off for “Transparency” mode. Pick up these noise-cancelling ‘buds at Amazon or Walmart for $10 off.
AirPods Models: What’s the Difference?
Not familiar with the Apple audio lineup? Here’s a quick rundown of the different Apple AirPods earbuds and Max headphones:
AirPods 4: The most affordable AirPods. Feature excellent audio quality, spatial audio, force sensor controls, and a smaller design. Up to 5 hours playtime and 30 hours battery life with included charging case. No ANC, plastic universal-fit ear-tips.
AirPods 4 (ANC): Just like the AirPods 4 above, with the addition of active noise-cancellation (ANC).
AirPods Pro 2: Better ANC and audio quality than the AirPods 4, plus touch controls. Up to 6 hour playtime and 30 hours battery life.
AirPods Max: Sleek, over-the-ear headphone design and Apple’s best audio quality (including Lossless Audio via USB‑C). 20 hours playtime.
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