Can You Buy One Airpod? Thankfully, Yes! (Here’s How)

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  • We list various options for buying a replacement AirPod.
  • Learn how to sync a new AirPod with an existing one.
  • Handy tips on loss prevention.
  • Also, check out our guide to renaming your AirPods (with pictures)

Apple AirPods can easily get lost or misplaced, and it is often the unfortunate case that just one disappears. With this issue in mind, we wrote this handy guide.

This article will assist you in purchasing a replacement AirPod, how to sync your new AirPod with an existing one and provide some tips on keeping them locatable.

Can You Buy One Airpod? 

Thankfully, yes. And it’s pretty simple. Apple offers a variety of resources to find and replace AirPods.

It’s highly recommended to only source replacement AirPods directly from Apple or through Apple-approved parts dealers, as cheaper substitutes may cause sync or performance issues. 

How much does a single AirPod cost?

The price of a single AirPod replacement averages $69 globally. This price may vary slightly according to your location, as well as the policy on your warranty. Refer to the table below for price comparisons per model and type:

AirPod GenerationSingle AirPod CostCase Replacement Cost
AirPods (1st & 2nd Gen)$69Lightning case: $59
Wireless case: $79
AirPods (3rd Gen)$69Lightning case: $69
MagSafe case: $79
AirPods Pro (1st & 2nd Gen)$89All types: $99

💡 Note: If you have AppleCare+, replacing a single AirPod or the charging case costs $29 (USD) each.
Please note that AppleCare+ must have been purchased prior to the incident that caused the damage or loss of the AirPods.

Airpods Warranty & AppleCare+

Apple offers two separate warranty options to buyers of Apple AirPods. Both AppleCare and AppleCare+ will cover the cost of manufacturing faults or defects, but they do not cover you for accidental loss or damage.

Where they do come in handy is replacement costs. Using AppleCare+ can save you considerable money in the long run. We compiled a table summing up the cost benefits below:

Product TypeAppleCare+ Replacement FeeStandard Fee
AirPods (1st & 2nd Gen)$29$69
AirPods (3rd Gen)$29$69
AirPods Pro$29$89
AirPods Wireless & MagSafe Case$29$69
AirPods Pro Wireless & MagSafe Case$29$89
All prices are shown in U.S. dollars and are subject to local taxes. A shipping fee may also be added.

As you can see, the costs are substantial when you consider how fragile and small (easy to lose) they are.

Apple’s user-friendly website allows you to check the status of your warranty. All you need is the serial number on the side of your AirPods charging case as a reference, and you’re good to go.

How To Replace A Lost AirPod

Whether or not you are covered under warranty, you can order replacement AirPods online through this support page or the Apple Support app.

To order replacement AirPods, follow these simple steps:

  1. Go to the Apple website or open the Apple Support app and select ‘AirPods’ from the list of products.
  2. Select ‘Lost or missing AirPods’.
  3. Select ‘Replace lost AirPods’ and then click Continue.
  4. Select ‘Get Started’ under Repair Options.
  5. Select the left or right AirPod to replace and click Continue.
  6. Here, you’ll see the estimated replacement cost & shipping information. Fill out your details to complete the order.

Please note that the exact steps may vary depending on your location and the version of the Apple Support app you are using.

Alternatively, you can visit an Apple Store or authorized service provider to have your AirPods repaired or replaced in person. You can find a list of authorized service providers on the Apple website.

How To Sync A New Airpod With An Existing One

Once you’ve received your new AirPod, syncing them is a simple process. Remember that the replacement AirPod must match the existing one’s firmware–otherwise, it won’t work. 

You can use two different AirPods together if they are the same type and generation. This means you cannot replace a Gen 2 with a Gen 3 and have an unmatched pair, etc.

To sync your new AirPod, follow these simple steps:

  1. Place both AirPods in the Apple charging case and keep the lid open.
  2. Check the status light between the two AirPods inside the case. The light should begin to flash orange.
  3. Hold the button on the rear of the case for a few seconds.
    The status light should change from orange to white. A pop-up window should appear on your iPhone home screen. Tap Connect to sync your AirPods. 
  4. Test the synced AirPods on one of your iPhone’s audio apps.

Tips For Preventing Airpod Loss

You can help prevent losing your AirPods and ensure you get the most out of your investment by following a few simple tips:

Use The Storage Case

Let’s start by stating the glaringly obvious… Keep your AirPods in their charging case when not in use. This will keep them charged (duh) and help prevent them from getting lost.

Use The ‘Find My’ Setting

If you have an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, you can use the ‘Find My’ app to locate your AirPods if they are lost or stolen. This app will show their last known location on a map and allow you to play a sound to help locate them.

Use A Leash, Strap, Or Hooks

There are a variety of leashes, straps, and over-the-ear hooks that can help keep your AirPods secure. These accessories attach to your AirPods and allow you to wear them around your neck or attach them to your clothing.

Keep Your AirPods Clean

Regularly cleaning your AirPods can help ensure they fit securely in your ears and reduce the risk of falling out. Use a soft, dry cloth to clean your AirPods, and avoid using water or other liquids.

Use Definitive Storing Spots

It’s healthy to get into the habit of choosing one or two common storage spots. Many users leave their AirPods lying around once they’ve stopped using them, which is usually the culprit of lost AirPods. Instead, find a set place in your house, car, or office to stash your AirPods and charging case.

Before you go, check out some related guides:

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Pip Dolan

Pip is a Co-founder and brand Director at Producer Hive. He DJ'd D&B and Jungle in Sydney’s dance music scene, while running DIY underground warehouse parties with friends. He was a semi-finalist for the score of the silent film ‘Beast vs. The Sun’ at Sydney’s 2010 Tropfest Film Festival, and went on to sign house and techno tracks to Worthy’s ‘Anabatic Records.’
As a producer, Pip has released tracks as RUINS (with his partner Sarah Tonkin) and solo as Askham on labels such as Wu-Xi, Never Slept, Simply Deep, and Dialectic Recordings. He has also been featured on music blogs like Stoney Roads and Triple J Unearthed.
As a DJ and promoter, he has performed at festivals such as High and Dry, Subsonic Music, and supported a plethora of internationals such as DjRum, Pariah, Current Value, and Raiden, to name a few.
Today, Pip runs a popular electronic music podcast ‘Constructions’ under his and friends' brand 'Construct'.

6 Comments

  1. What about the a individual beats wireless headphone or the issue of losing the one Applying to Apple air pods only Don Ace Watson

    • My question is, can you sync just one airpod to your phone or iPad. My wife lost one of hers and I would like to get it set up so I can just use a single. Is that a possibility or do I have to buy another one in order to get this other one synced?

      • Hi John, unfortunately, you cannot. You must have two AirPods to complete the pairing process. However, there is a ‘hack’ you can perform. First, you need to borrow an AirPod from someone. Once you have two, you can try these steps:

        1. Place the borrowed AirPod inside your case with your AirPod.
        2. Reset the AirPod case by holding the button for 15 seconds until an amber light flashes.
        3. Pair the AirPod case to your phone.
        4. Your single AirPod will now be usable on your device.

        Just remember not to click ‘Forget This Device’ in Bluetooth settings or you will have to repeat the process.

  2. My partner is deaf in one ear and only needs one air pod.., is this a problem …does the one have to synchronise or will it just find Bluetooth ?!

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