AirPods 5
Runner-up: Best budget earbuds
Runner-up: Best budget earbuds
Earbuds

AirPods 5Release Date, Price & What Changed vs AirPods 4

Ask about the AirPods 5

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PREVIOUS MODEL
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Released Guide updated

Apple announced AirPods 5 on 9 September 2026, opened pre-orders the same day and put both models in stores on 18 September. Both carry Active Noise Cancellation, which Apple rates at up to 1.5x the AirPods 4 ANC model and calls the best in an open-ear design. The $129 pair ships with a USB-C case and runs 4 hours with ANC on.

Latest on AirPods 5

More newsAll AirPods news

What AirPods 5 does best

  1. Music

    Personalized Spatial Audio follows your head and Adaptive EQ tunes the sound to your ears, and they stay comfortable even after six hours of wear.

  2. Calls

    Voices came through clear on calls while background noise stayed quiet, and you can answer hands-free with Siri.

  3. Travel

    Most of a New York subway ride and a clattering keyboard fade out, with outside noise cut by an average of 59%.

AirPods 4 vs AirPods 5

All 4 differences ›
AirPods 4
THE PREVIOUS MODEL

AirPods 4

Sep 2024
AirPods 5
THE NEWCOMER

AirPods 5

Sep 2026
  1. AirPods 4: Up to 4 hours with ANCBattery life wireless case model+1 hourAirPods 5: Up to 5 hours with ANC (Wireless Charging Case model)
  2. AirPods 4: IP54Water resistanceImprovedAirPods 5: IP57
  3. AirPods 4: Adaptive EQAdaptive eqChangedAirPods 5: Next-generation Adaptive EQ

Comparison

Compare earbuds

How it compares

Price

$129

What it costs to buy. None of these need a subscription.

Weight

4.3g

Grams in your ears. Lower is lighter.

Battery life

4 hrs

How long it lasts on its own, away from a charger.

Price

AirPods 5
$129
AirPods 4
$129
Pixel Buds 2a
$129
Galaxy Buds 4
$179.99

Current list prices.

One earbud, not the pair, and not the case.

Hours on one charge with noise cancelling on, where that figure is officially stated; otherwise the official headline figure. Prices are each product's lowest version. Battery life varies with use, settings and firmware.

If not this one

  • If workouts decides itShokz OpenFit Air 2

    Pressure-sensitive buttons ignore sweat, water and hair, and the IP55 rating keeps them going through rain.

    $129.95

Most paired with

Everything it works with

What AirPods work with

Made for iPhone, with iOS 27 or later required. They also work with Android phones for listening and calls, but Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and other Apple-only features need an Apple device.

Do AirPods work with iPhone?

Works

They work fully with iOS 27 or later.

AirPods 5 get Apple-only features and settings on a compatible iPhone. Older iOS versions do not meet Apple's requirement.

Do AirPods work with the Apple Watch Series 12?

Yes. Apple Watch Series 12 plays audio to Bluetooth headphones and speakers.

See the Apple Watch Series 12 Guide

Can you connect AirPods to a Mac?

Pair them by Bluetooth on macOS Golden Gate or later.

  1. On your Mac, open System Settings from the Apple menu, then click Bluetooth.
  2. Put both earbuds in the charging case and open the lid.
  3. Double-tap the front of the case until the status light flashes white.
  4. Click Connect next to your AirPods in the Nearby Devices list.

AirPods 5 support Apple pairing and settings on a compatible Mac. If they are set up on your iPhone and the Mac uses the same Apple Account, they should connect on their own. Choose them under Sound in Control Center.

Some features need an Apple device

Do AirPods work with Android?

Some features missing

Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not.

You can pair AirPods 5 with an Android phone for listening and calls. Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and other Apple-only features need an Apple device. Pair them with standard Bluetooth using the case setup mode.

Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and Apple-only features need an Apple device.

Quick answers

All FAQs

Quick answers

How much do AirPods 5 cost?
$129 for AirPods 5 with the USB-C charging case, and $149 for AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case, which adds the on-stem volume swipe and an extra hour of playback. Both are US prices announced by Apple on 9 September 2026.
Should I buy the AirPods 5?
No reason to wait, and no deal to chase. The AirPods 5 came out Sep 18, 2026, and its best price today is $129 at Amazon. For a model this new, iDevice's advice is to buy it if you want it, not to wait for a drop. Price checked Oct. 31, 2026. See the full answer on the Apple AirPods 5
Is the AirPods 5 worth it for AirPods 4 owners?
Worth upgrading, though we have not rated the changes to its sound yet. The price is fine. It is $129 at Amazon, price checked Oct. 31, 2026. See the full answer on the Apple AirPods 5 for AirPods 4 owners

Get AirPods 5 updates

Email me when there's news.

Works with

Does it work with…?

Doesn't work

PS5 can't pair with AirPods directly.

PS5 does not accept standard Bluetooth audio devices directly, so AirPods 5 cannot pair with it for audio.

Some features missing

Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not.

You can pair AirPods 5 with an Android phone for listening and calls. Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and other Apple-only features need an Apple device. Pair them with standard Bluetooth using the case setup mode.

Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and Apple-only features need an Apple device.

Some features missing

Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not.

You can pair AirPods 5 with a Samsung Galaxy phone for listening and calls. Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and other Apple-only features need an Apple device. Pair them with standard Bluetooth using the case setup mode.

Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and Apple-only features need an Apple device.

Doesn't work

Xbox consoles can't pair with AirPods for audio.

Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One do not support Bluetooth audio, so AirPods 5 cannot pair with the console. Use an Xbox Wireless or wired headset instead. AirPods can still work for Xbox games on a phone or PC.

Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not.

  1. On your PC, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices and turn Bluetooth on.
  2. Put your AirPods in the charging case, open the lid, and double-tap the front of the case until the status light flashes white.
  3. Select your AirPods when they appear under New devices in the Bluetooth list.

You can pair AirPods 5 with a Windows PC for listening and calls. Siri, AirPods settings and firmware updates need an Apple device.

No Siri; settings and firmware updates need an Apple device.

Some features missing

Game audio works, but the AirPods microphone does not.

Nintendo Switch family systems can send audio to Bluetooth earbuds. Bluetooth microphones are not supported, so voice chat cannot use the AirPods microphone. Pair them from Bluetooth Audio in the Switch System Settings.

Bluetooth microphones cannot be used, so no voice chat through the earbuds.

Works

AirPods set up on your iPhone also work with Apple Watch.

With the latest watchOS, AirPods 5 set up with your iPhone already work with your Apple Watch. Press play on the watch.

Some features missing

Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not.

You can pair AirPods 5 with a Google Pixel phone for listening and calls. Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and other Apple-only features need an Apple device. Pair them with standard Bluetooth using the case setup mode.

Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and Apple-only features need an Apple device.

Show all 18Show fewer
Works

They work fully with an iPad on the latest iPadOS.

AirPods 5 pair with iPad like they do with iPhone. If your iPad uses the same Apple Account, they connect on their own. The iPad needs the latest iPadOS.

Works

They work fully with iOS 27 or later.

AirPods 5 get Apple-only features and settings on a compatible iPhone. Older iOS versions do not meet Apple's requirement.

WorksWorked out from the official minimum

They work with every iPhone that runs iOS 27 or later, from the iPhone 11 on.

  • iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max: yes, on iOS 27 or later
  • iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air and iPhone 17e: yes, on iOS 27 or later
  • iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max and iPhone 16e: yes, on iOS 27 or later
  • iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max: yes, on iOS 27 or later
  • iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max: yes, on iOS 27 or later
  • iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max: yes, on iOS 27 or later
  • iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max: yes, on iOS 27 or later
  • iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 11 Pro Max: yes, on iOS 27 or later
  • iPhone SE (2nd generation) and iPhone SE (3rd generation): yes, on iOS 27 or later
  • Any iPhone not listed: no, it cannot run that iOS version

Worked out from the official minimum ("iOS 27 or later") and Apple's list of the iPhones that run it, not a separate test. See the sources.

Pair them by Bluetooth on macOS Golden Gate or later.

  1. On your Mac, open System Settings from the Apple menu, then click Bluetooth.
  2. Put both earbuds in the charging case and open the lid.
  3. Double-tap the front of the case until the status light flashes white.
  4. Click Connect next to your AirPods in the Nearby Devices list.

AirPods 5 support Apple pairing and settings on a compatible Mac. If they are set up on your iPhone and the Mac uses the same Apple Account, they should connect on their own. Choose them under Sound in Control Center.

Some features missing

Apple TV works best. Other TVs need Bluetooth audio.

AirPods 5 work best with Apple TV 4K signed in to the same Apple Account. Other TVs need Bluetooth audio; Siri and other Apple extras do not work there, Samsung and Google TV play to only one Bluetooth audio device at a time, some TVs have no Bluetooth audio, and lip-sync errors can happen. Roku and Fire TV were not checked.

Apple extras like Siri do not work on non-Apple TVs; only one Bluetooth audio device plays at a time on Samsung and Google TV; some TVs lack Bluetooth audio and lip-sync errors can happen; Roku and Fire TV were not checked

Some features missing

They work as headphones with Garmin music watches.

Garmin watches with music storage can pair AirPods 5 as Bluetooth headphones. Watches without music storage cannot play to headphones. Apple-only extras do not work on Garmin.

Only Garmin music models support headphones; Apple extras do not work on Garmin

Use Settings on an iPhone, iPad or Mac, not a separate app.

On an Apple device with current software, Bluetooth settings show AirPods controls, features and firmware information. Apple documents no AirPods settings app for Android or Windows. On those devices, Apple only documents Bluetooth audio.

Updates install while charging near a Wi-Fi-connected Apple device.

AirPods 5 update automatically while charging and in Bluetooth range of a Wi-Fi-connected iPhone, iPad or Mac. Without an Apple device, Apple directs you to an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider appointment for an update.

Without an Apple device, Apple directs you to an Apple Store or Authorised Service Provider appointment.

Doesn't work

Each case works only with the earbuds made for that case model.

The two AirPods 5 charging case models are not cross-compatible. Each case only accepts the earbuds made for that case model.

Software, region and language limits affect some AirPods features.

AirPods 5 need iOS 27 or macOS Golden Gate and can be linked to one Apple Account at a time. Live Translation and Siri vary by region or language. Find My requires iOS 27 or later.

One Apple Account at a time; Live Translation and Siri vary by region/language; Find My needs iOS 27.

Most paired with

Do AirPods work with iPhone?

Works

They work fully with iOS 27 or later.

AirPods 5 get Apple-only features and settings on a compatible iPhone. Older iOS versions do not meet Apple's requirement.

Do AirPods work with the Apple Watch Series 12?

Yes. Apple Watch Series 12 plays audio to Bluetooth headphones and speakers.

See the Apple Watch Series 12 Guide

Can you connect AirPods to a Mac?

Pair them by Bluetooth on macOS Golden Gate or later.

  1. On your Mac, open System Settings from the Apple menu, then click Bluetooth.
  2. Put both earbuds in the charging case and open the lid.
  3. Double-tap the front of the case until the status light flashes white.
  4. Click Connect next to your AirPods in the Nearby Devices list.

AirPods 5 support Apple pairing and settings on a compatible Mac. If they are set up on your iPhone and the Mac uses the same Apple Account, they should connect on their own. Choose them under Sound in Control Center.

Some features need an Apple device

Do AirPods work with Android?

Some features missing

Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not.

You can pair AirPods 5 with an Android phone for listening and calls. Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and other Apple-only features need an Apple device. Pair them with standard Bluetooth using the case setup mode.

Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and Apple-only features need an Apple device.

Do AirPods work with the Apple Watch Ultra 4?

Yes. Apple Watch Ultra 4 plays audio to Bluetooth headphones and speakers.

See the Apple Watch Ultra 4 Guide

No Siri; settings and firmware updates need an Apple device

Can you connect AirPods to a PC?

Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not.

  1. On your PC, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices and turn Bluetooth on.
  2. Put your AirPods in the charging case, open the lid, and double-tap the front of the case until the status light flashes white.
  3. Select your AirPods when they appear under New devices in the Bluetooth list.

You can pair AirPods 5 with a Windows PC for listening and calls. Siri, AirPods settings and firmware updates need an Apple device.

No Siri; settings and firmware updates need an Apple device.

Do AirPods work with Samsung phones?

Some features missing

Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not.

You can pair AirPods 5 with a Samsung Galaxy phone for listening and calls. Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and other Apple-only features need an Apple device. Pair them with standard Bluetooth using the case setup mode.

Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and Apple-only features need an Apple device.

Do AirPods work with Pixel phones?

Some features missing

Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not.

You can pair AirPods 5 with a Google Pixel phone for listening and calls. Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and other Apple-only features need an Apple device. Pair them with standard Bluetooth using the case setup mode.

Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and Apple-only features need an Apple device.

What you need

Do AirPods work with Android?

Some features missing

Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not.

You can pair AirPods 5 with an Android phone for listening and calls. Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and other Apple-only features need an Apple device. Pair them with standard Bluetooth using the case setup mode.

Siri, Apple settings, firmware updates and Apple-only features need an Apple device.

Can you connect AirPods to a PC?

Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not.

  1. On your PC, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices and turn Bluetooth on.
  2. Put your AirPods in the charging case, open the lid, and double-tap the front of the case until the status light flashes white.
  3. Select your AirPods when they appear under New devices in the Bluetooth list.

You can pair AirPods 5 with a Windows PC for listening and calls. Siri, AirPods settings and firmware updates need an Apple device.

No Siri; settings and firmware updates need an Apple device.

Do AirPods work with iPhone?

Works

They work fully with iOS 27 or later.

AirPods 5 get Apple-only features and settings on a compatible iPhone. Older iOS versions do not meet Apple's requirement.

Can you connect AirPods to a Mac?

Pair them by Bluetooth on macOS Golden Gate or later.

  1. On your Mac, open System Settings from the Apple menu, then click Bluetooth.
  2. Put both earbuds in the charging case and open the lid.
  3. Double-tap the front of the case until the status light flashes white.
  4. Click Connect next to your AirPods in the Nearby Devices list.

AirPods 5 support Apple pairing and settings on a compatible Mac. If they are set up on your iPhone and the Mac uses the same Apple Account, they should connect on their own. Choose them under Sound in Control Center.

Do AirPods work with a TV?

Some features missing

Apple TV works best. Other TVs need Bluetooth audio.

AirPods 5 work best with Apple TV 4K signed in to the same Apple Account. Other TVs need Bluetooth audio; Siri and other Apple extras do not work there, Samsung and Google TV play to only one Bluetooth audio device at a time, some TVs have no Bluetooth audio, and lip-sync errors can happen. Roku and Fire TV were not checked.

Apple extras like Siri do not work on non-Apple TVs; only one Bluetooth audio device plays at a time on Samsung and Google TV; some TVs lack Bluetooth audio and lip-sync errors can happen; Roku and Fire TV were not checked

Supports

Works

They switch between compatible Apple devices on the same Apple Account.

AirPods 5 can automatically switch to the compatible Apple device you are using. Each device must use the same Apple Account.

Works

They support Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking.

A compatible Apple device on current software is required.

Some features missing

Lossless Audio works only with Apple Vision Pro.

AirPods 5 support Lossless Audio with ultra-low latency when paired with Apple Vision Pro. Lossless Audio does not work over normal Bluetooth. Apple has not published the full Bluetooth codec list for this model.

Lossless only works with Vision Pro; ordinary Bluetooth codec list not published for this model.

Works

Siri features work on supported Apple devices.

AirPods 5 support Hey Siri and Siri Interactions. Hands-free Siri AI needs iOS 27 and an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone. Siri does not work through AirPods on non-Apple devices and may not be available in every language or region.

Some features missing

It needs an iPhone 15 Pro or later with Apple Intelligence on.

The iPhone must run iOS 26 or later, and AirPods 5 need the latest firmware. Live Translation is not available in every region or language.

Needs a recent Apple Intelligence iPhone; not all regions or languages.

Works

Find My works with iOS 27 or later.

Find My can help locate AirPods 5 or the charging case. Only the Wireless Charging Case model has a built-in speaker for Find My.

Doesn't work

Those hearing features are not available on AirPods 5.

Apple lists Hearing Test, Hearing Aid and Hearing Protection as unavailable on this model.

Doesn't work

Heart rate sensing is not available on AirPods 5.

Apple lists heart rate sensing as unavailable on this model.

Show all 9Show fewer
Some features missing

Ultra-low latency is documented only with Apple Vision Pro.

Apple documents ultra-low-latency Lossless Audio with Apple Vision Pro. It does not document a low-latency mode for iPhone, Mac, PC or consoles.

No documented low-latency mode for iPhone, Mac, PC or consoles.

How it works

Both cases use USB-C. Only one case model also charges wirelessly.

Use a USB-C cable with either AirPods 5 case. Wireless charging works only with the Wireless Charging Case model, using Apple Watch or Qi-certified chargers.

Apple sells replacements, but the case must match your AirPods 5 model.

Apple sells replacement AirPods and charging cases. A replacement charging case must match your AirPods 5 model.

This review has no score, so there is no average yet. It takes two scored reviews from two different publishers.

1 expert review, none with a score

  1. SoundGuys
    Christian ThomasSep 22, 2026
    No score
    Read review
Sep 7, 2016 · Origin
Apple introduces AirPods
Apple unveils the first AirPods with the W1 chip and one-tap pairing.
Dec 13, 2016 · Shipped
AirPods go on sale
Apple opens online orders and says store availability will begin the following week.
Mar 20, 2019 · Generation 2
Second-generation AirPods arrive
Apple announces AirPods with the H1 chip, faster switching, more talk time, and hands-free Hey Siri.
Oct 18, 2021 · Generation 3
AirPods 3 add a new design and spatial audio
Apple announces third-generation AirPods with Adaptive EQ, spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, and a shorter-stem design.
Sep 9, 2024 · Generation 4
AirPods 4 split the line into two tiers
Apple announces AirPods 4 and AirPods 4 with ANC at $129 and $179, respectively, with preorders starting the same day.
Sep 20, 2024 · Shipped
AirPods 4 reach stores
AirPods 4 and the ANC version begin retail availability.
Jun 9, 2025 · Software
Apple previews new AirPods 4 recording controls
Apple previews studio-quality audio recording, camera remote controls, and improved call quality for AirPods 4 through a fall firmware update.
Sep 15, 2025 · Software
iOS 26 AirPods features ship
Apple releases platform updates that add new AirPods capabilities including improved content capture and Live Translation support on compatible models.
Oct 12, 2025 · Reported
AirPods 5 and H3 development are reported
Mark Gurman reports Apple is developing two tiers of AirPods 5 and an H3 chip aimed at better audio quality and lower latency; he does not say which model will debut H3.
Nov 4, 2025 · Software
Live Translation expands for current AirPods
Apple announces Live Translation expansion to the EU for AirPods 4 with ANC, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods Pro 3.
Jun 8, 2026 · Software
Apple previews custom EQ for AirPods
At WWDC26, Apple previews custom EQ as a fall software feature for AirPods users.
Aug 18, 2026 · Code
AirPods 5 identifiers appear in macOS 26.7
MacRumors reports B868M and B868E identifiers in the macOS 26.7 release candidate, matching the two-model pattern used by AirPods 4.
Aug 19, 2026 · Clarification
Camera-equipped AirPods move to 2027
Bloomberg reporting relayed by MacRumors says the camera-equipped AirPods project is no longer on Apple's 2026 schedule, separating it from the AirPods 5 refresh.
Aug 24, 2026 · Reported
AirPods 5 is reported for the September event
Mark Gurman reports AirPods 5 could debut at Apple's September product launch, with regular and noise-canceling versions.
Aug 25, 2026 · Estimate
Pricing forecast centers on the current $129/$179 tiers
MacRumors says unchanged AirPods 5 pricing is plausible, while clearly noting that Apple has not announced a price.
Aug 26, 2026 · Event
Apple schedules its September event
Apple officially announces a September 9 special event at 10 a.m. PT.
Aug 30, 2026 · Reported
September AirPods 5 timing is reiterated
Gurman again expects AirPods 5 as early as September alongside Apple's major fall hardware.
Sep 2, 2026 · Status
Feature details remain scarce days before the event
9to5Mac says AirPods 5 is expected in base and ANC versions, but there are still no additional reported feature details.
Sep 9, 2026 · Announced
Apple announces AirPods 5, and both models cancel noise
AirPods 5 at $129 and AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case at $149, both with Active Noise Cancellation, H2 and IP57. Pre-orders open the same day. No camera AirPods appear.
Sep 18, 2026 · Released
AirPods 5 go on sale
Both versions reach stores on Friday, September 18: AirPods 5 and AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case, each with noise cancellation.

Reveal to on sale

How long after the reveal can you actually buy one?

AirPods (1st gen)97 days
AirPods (2nd gen)same day
AirPods (3rd gen)8 days
AirPods 411 days
AirPods 59 days

One of the five went on sale the day it was revealed. Three more went on sale 8 to 11 days after being revealed. AirPods (1st generation) is the exception, at 97 days.

At a glance

AirPods 5CURRENT MODELAirPods 5AirPods 4PREVIOUS MODELAirPods 4
Noise cancellation
Yes, on both modelsApple rates it up to 1.5x AirPods 4 with ANC
No / Yes (open-earANC model only)
Earbud battery
4 hrs ANC (5 hrs on the Wireless Charging Case model)
5 hrs
Works with
iOS full / Android basic
iOS full / Android basic (no Siri or Adaptive Audio)
Water resistance
IP57
IP54
Price
From $129
$99 (regularly $129)
Case battery
20hrs ANC (22 hrs on the Wireless Charging Case model)
Up to 30 hrs total
Spatial audio
YesPersonalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
Yespersonalized with head tracking
Show 3 more specs
Cameras
No
No
Health tracking
None
None
Weight
4.3g
4.3g
Technical specs
Processor
H2
H2
Connectivity
Bluetooth 5.3
Bluetooth 5.3
Visual AI
No
No
Status light
No
No
Controls
Stem press for playback and calls, head nod for Sirivolume swipe on the Wireless Charging Case model
Head nod for Siri, double tap stem
Battery
4 hrs ANC on, 20 hrs with the case5 hrs and 22 hrs on the Wireless Charging Case model
5 hrs / 4 hrs ANC on
Case
Wireless Charging Case: USB-C or Qi wireless chargers
Charging Case (USB-C)
Buy
See prices
See prices
AirPods 5
Apple

Fine to buy.

It's new and prices rarely drop this early, so buy it if you want it.

AirPods 5

About Apple

Apple makes the iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods, and is known for hardware and software designed to work together.

Visit Apple
More from Apple we cover
AirPods Pro 3AirPods MaxiPhone 17iPhone 17e

Where to buy

StorePriceIn stockAction
Amazon$129In stockBuy
Walmart$129Buy
Best Buy$129Buy
Apple$129Buy

Price history

On sale since Sep 18, and no new model is close. Buy it if you want it.

Last 30 days
No change$129 since Oct 1
Stores we check
4Amazon is cheapest
Lowest known
$124.99Sep 15, 2026, from older published history
Price checks
55 over 31 days

All earbuds prices

Returns and warranty

Returns
14-day returns· the clock starts the day it arrives
Warranty
1-year warranty· starts the day you buy it
Returns and warranty details

Returns

  • Send it back like new

    Return it in its original condition with all included parts, accessories and packaging.

  • How you get your money back

    Card refunds go to your bank within five business days after Apple receives the item. Returns may be inspected; approved refunds or exchanges are issued within 10 business days. Cash returns over $750 are paid by check within 10 business days.

Warranty

Covered

  • Bands and accessories

    AirPods are covered by Apple's accessory warranty: defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the date of original retail purchase.

  • Battery covered only for defects

    The standard warranty covers a battery only if it fails from a defect. The 80 percent rule belongs to AppleCare, not to the free warranty: AppleCare plans cover batteries that keep less than 80% of their original capacity.

Not covered

  • Water damage

    Apple says sweat, water and dust resistance are not permanent and can wear down over time, and AirPods and cases cannot be rechecked or resealed.

  • Accidents and misuse

    Damage caused by accident, abuse, misuse, fire, earthquake or other external cause is not covered (iPhone, Vision Pro, Apple Watch). The AirPods warranty excludes damage from abuse, accident, modifications or unauthorized repairs.

  • Scratches and dents

    Cosmetic damage such as scratches, dents and broken plastic on ports is not covered unless it comes from a defect.

  • Normal wear and aging

    Defects caused by normal wear and tear or normal aging are not covered.

  • Repairs by other shops

    Damage from service by anyone who is not Apple or an Apple Authorized Service Provider is not covered.

  • Add AppleCare+ or AppleCare One

    AppleCare+ accidental damage fee for AirPods is $29.

  • How it gets fixed

    Apple chooses to repair, replace with the same model (or a similar one with your consent), or refund the purchase price. For mail-in service Apple sends prepaid waybills and pays shipping both ways if you follow its packing instructions.

Good to know

  • Good to know

    If engraved, it cannot be exchanged in store; it can only be returned for a refund.

  • Engraved or personalized items

    Engraved items (Apple names AirPods and iPad) cannot be exchanged in store. They can only be returned for a refund.

  • Activation Lock / Find My

    If the security features are on and cannot be turned off by the person returning it, Apple may refuse the return.

  • Opened software

    Opened software, software downloads and gift cards cannot be returned.

What's in the box

What comes in the box with the AirPods 5?

Some things change with the version you buy. Here is what you get. No USB-C charge cable. No power adapter.

AirPods 5 earbuds
Documentation

Plus one of these, based on the version you pick

Charging Case with USB-C connectorStandard
Wireless Charging Case with USB-C connector and speakerWireless Charging Case

Not in the box

USB-C charge cableNot in the box
Power adapterNot in the box

From Apple's pages 1, 2. Checked Sep 22, 2026.

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Frequently asked questions

Questions about AirPods 5

Top questions

How much do AirPods 5 cost?
$129 for AirPods 5 with the USB-C charging case, and $149 for AirPods 5 with Wireless Charging Case, which adds the on-stem volume swipe and an extra hour of playback. Both are US prices announced by Apple on 9 September 2026.
Should I buy the AirPods 5?
No reason to wait, and no deal to chase. The AirPods 5 came out Sep 18, 2026, and its best price today is $129 at Amazon. For a model this new, iDevice's advice is to buy it if you want it, not to wait for a drop. Price checked Oct. 31, 2026. See the full answer on the Apple AirPods 5
Is the AirPods 5 worth it for AirPods 4 owners?
Worth upgrading, though we have not rated the changes to its sound yet. The price is fine. It is $129 at Amazon, price checked Oct. 31, 2026. See the full answer on the Apple AirPods 5 for AirPods 4 owners
Do the AirPods 5 come with a charger?
No. The box has a charging case, but no charging cable and no power adapter.
Do both AirPods 5 models have noise cancellation?
Yes. Both AirPods 5 models include Active Noise Cancellation. Apple rates it at up to 1.5x more than AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation, and calls it the best Active Noise Cancellation in an open-ear design.
What is the difference between the two AirPods 5 models?
The case and the controls. The $129 model charges over USB-C only. The $149 Wireless Charging Case model also charges from an Apple Watch charger or a Qi pad, carries a speaker for Find My, adds a force sensor with volume swipe, and runs 5 hours with ANC against 4, or 22 hours with the case against 20.
What chip is in AirPods 5?
The H2, the same headphone chip used in recent AirPods models. Mark Gurman reported in October 2025 that Apple is developing a new H3 chip, but he did not say which future AirPods model would get it first.
How long do AirPods 5 last on a charge?
Up to 4 hours with ANC on for the $129 model and up to 20 hours with its case. The $149 Wireless Charging Case model runs up to 5 hours and up to 22 hours with the case. Five minutes in either case gives around an hour.
Are AirPods 5 water resistant?
They are rated IP57 for dust, sweat and water. That covers sweat, rain and a brief dunk, not a swim.
Do AirPods 5 have cameras?
No. Apple's September 9, 2026 announcement introduced AirPods 5, with no cameras. A separate camera-equipped AirPods project exists, but MacRumors reports it isn't coming out until 2027.
Do AirPods 5 track heart rate?
No. Heart-rate sensing stays on AirPods Pro 3. The AirPods 5 sensor list is microphones, an optical in-ear sensor, two accelerometers and a force sensor.
Do AirPods 5 translate a conversation?
Yes. Apple says Live Translation is now available across the entire AirPods lineup, enabled by ANC and computational audio. It needs Apple Intelligence turned on and is not available in every language or region.
What happens to AirPods Max now that AirPods 5 is out?
Nothing announced. Apple introduced AirPods Max 2 in March 2026 and did not mention it on 9 September. AirPods 5 is a refresh of the standard earbud line only.

Using it

Does it have noise cancelling?
Yes, it cancels noise.
What does it cost?
It costs $129 to $149. That is the list price, before any subscription.
Does it work with my phone?
It works fully with an iPhone and partly with Android. It pairs with Android, but the app and the iPhone-only features are not there.
How heavy is it?
It weighs 4.3g.
How does it connect?
It connects over Bluetooth.
What chip is inside?
It runs on H2.
Does it do spatial audio?
Yes, it does spatial audio. It tracks your head, so the sound stays put when you turn.

Battery and charging

How long does the battery last?
It runs 20 hours with the case and noise cancelling on. That is 4 hours of listening with noise cancelling on, and 5 hours, measured on listening anc on wireless case.

Water

Can it get wet (shower, pool, swimming)?
Yes, it survives a shower and a soaking. Its rating is IP57. It holds up for thirty minutes at one metre. Swimming laps and diving need a different rating, and it does not carry one.

Price and models

When did the AirPods 5 come out?
It went on sale September 18, 2026. Announced September 9, 2026.
Is there a newer one?
No. The AirPods 5 is the current model.

Returns and warranty

How long do I have to return it?
14-day returns The clock starts the day it arrives.
Is there a restocking fee?
Restocking fee: not stated by Apple
Who pays return shipping?
Who pays return shipping: not stated by Apple Start the return online and print a return label, then schedule a carrier pickup or drop it at the carrier. You can also return it at any U.S. Apple Store.
Can I return it if I opened or wore it?
Send it back like new Return it in its original condition with all included parts, accessories and packaging.
How do I get my money back?
How you get your money back Card refunds go to your bank within five business days after Apple receives the item. Returns may be inspected; approved refunds or exchanges are issued within 10 business days. Cash returns over $750 are paid by check within 10 business days.
How long is the warranty?
1-year warranty Starts the day you buy it.
Is there a paid protection plan?
Add AppleCare+ or AppleCare One AppleCare+ accidental damage fee for AirPods is $29.
Is water damage covered?
Water resistance wears off Apple says sweat, water and dust resistance are not permanent and can wear down over time, and AirPods and cases cannot be rechecked or resealed.
Is the battery covered?
Battery covered only for defects The standard warranty covers a battery only if it fails from a defect. The 80 percent rule belongs to AppleCare, not to the free warranty: AppleCare plans cover batteries that keep less than 80% of their original capacity.

In the box

What's in the box?
AirPods 5 earbuds, Documentation, Not included: USB-C charge cable, Not included: Power adapter.

Works with

Can you connect AirPods to a Nintendo Switch?
Game audio works, but the AirPods microphone does not. Some features missing
Do AirPods work with an Apple Watch?
AirPods set up on your iPhone also work with Apple Watch. Works
Do AirPods work with Pixel phones?
Listening and calls work over Bluetooth, but Apple-only features do not. Some features missing
Can you connect AirPods to an iPad?
They work fully with an iPad on the latest iPadOS. Works
Do AirPods work with iPhone?
They work fully with iOS 27 or later. Works
Can you connect AirPods to a Mac?
Pair them by Bluetooth on macOS Golden Gate or later. Works
Do AirPods work with a TV?
Apple TV works best. Other TVs need Bluetooth audio. Some features missing
Do AirPods work with a Garmin watch?
They work as headphones with Garmin music watches. Some features missing
How do AirPods manage settings?
Use Settings on an iPhone, iPad or Mac, not a separate app. Works
How does it charge?
Both cases use USB-C. Only one case model also charges wirelessly. Works
How does it get firmware updates?
Updates install while charging near a Wi-Fi-connected Apple device. Some features missing
Do AirPods support automatic switching between devices?
They switch between compatible Apple devices on the same Apple Account. Works
Do AirPods support Spatial Audio?
They support Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking. Works
Do AirPods support lossless audio?
Lossless Audio works only with Apple Vision Pro. Some features missing
Do AirPods support Siri and AI features?
Siri features work on supported Apple devices. Works
Do AirPods support Live Translation?
It needs an iPhone 15 Pro or later with Apple Intelligence on. Some features missing
Do AirPods support Find My?
Find My works with iOS 27 or later. Works
Do AirPods support Hearing Test, Hearing Aid or Hearing Protection?
Those hearing features are not available on AirPods 5. Doesn't work
Do AirPods support heart rate sensing?
Heart rate sensing is not available on AirPods 5. Doesn't work
Do AirPods support a low-latency mode for gaming?
Ultra-low latency is documented only with Apple Vision Pro. Some features missing
Does it work with the other AirPods 5 charging case?
Each case works only with the earbuds made for that case model. Doesn't work
How does it handle a replacement earbud or case?
Apple sells replacements, but the case must match your AirPods 5 model. Works
Do AirPods support all Apple devices, regions and languages?
Software, region and language limits affect some AirPods features. Some features missing

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