Can You Buy Single AirPods?
As one of the most popular wireless earbuds on the market, AirPods have become a staple for millions of people around the world. However, one of the most frustrating aspects of AirPods is the lack of a straightforward way to purchase single units, as well as the various accessories that come with the price of a family pack. In this article, we’ll delve into the question of whether you can buy single AirPods, and what this means for your wallet.
Single AirPods: The Reality Check
One of the main issues with purchasing single AirPods is that they are not as straightforward as buying a single case or charging case. You’ll need to purchase an entire set of AirPods, including the earbuds, charging case, and carrying case, which can add up to a significant amount of money.
Here’s a breakdown of the pricing for a single AirPods model:
- AirPods (2nd generation):
- Wireless earbuds: $159 (6-episode subscription to Apple Arcade)
- Charging case: $59
- Carry case: $29
- Ear tips: $9
- Accessories: $1
- AirPods Pro:
- Wireless earbuds: $249
- Charging case: $69
- Ear tips: $9
- Accessories: $1
As you can see, the cost of single AirPods can add up quickly, making it difficult to justify the price for a single unit.
Can You Buy Single AirPods?
Unfortunately, the answer is no, you cannot buy single AirPods directly from Apple or other authorized retailers. The prices listed above are for the full set of AirPods, which includes all the accessories and packaging.
However, it’s worth noting that Apple has introduced a feature called AirPods Mix that allows you to purchase single AirPods from Apple’s website. These single AirPods are $99 each, and come with a carrying case and ear tips.
Here’s a summary of the pricing for AirPods Mix:
- AirPods Mix (Single):
- Wireless earbuds: $99
- Charging case: $49
- Ear tips: $9
- Accessories: $1
It’s worth noting that AirPods Mix is a one-time purchase, and you’ll not be able to order them online or in-store.
Where to Buy Single AirPods
If you’re looking to purchase single AirPods, there are a few options to consider:
- Apple Store: You can purchase single AirPods directly from Apple’s website or in-store at an Apple Store.
- Authorized Retailers: You can also purchase single AirPods from authorized retailers such as Best Buy, Walmart, and Target.
- Online Retailers: Online retailers such as Amazon and Newegg often have a wide selection of AirPods, including single models.
Comparison to Previous Models
In comparison to previous models, single AirPods are significantly cheaper. The latest AirPods (3rd generation) and AirPods Pro were released in 2020, and they came with the following pricing:
- AirPods (3rd generation):
- Wireless earbuds: $159
- Charging case: $69
- Ear tips: $9
- Accessories: $1
- AirPods Pro:
- Wireless earbuds: $249
- Charging case: $69
- Ear tips: $9
- Accessories: $1
As you can see, the prices have decreased significantly since the release of the 3rd generation AirPods.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while you cannot buy single AirPods directly from Apple or other authorized retailers, there are still some options available. AirPods Mix allows you to purchase single AirPods, and it’s a great option for those who want to own individual earbuds. However, if you’re looking to purchase individual AirPods, you may need to rely on authorized retailers or online retailers.