AirPods use non-replaceable batteries, so you cannot swap out the internal cell yourself

Unlike some older headphones, AirPods contain batteries that are glued and soldered inside the case. Apple does not sell replacement batteries for individual AirPods or cases, and opening them yourself will break the device and void any warranty. If your AirPods no longer hold a charge, your only option is to replace the entire unit through Apple or an authorized repair shop.

The good news is that AirPods batteries last several years under normal use. A full charge typically lasts 5 to 6 hours of listening time, and the charging case extends that to 24 to 30 hours total before the case itself needs to recharge. If you are seeing battery drain much faster than that, the problem might be fixable without replacement.

Key Takeaways

  • AirPods batteries cannot be replaced individually — you must replace the entire AirPod or case if the battery fails.
  • Check your battery health in Settings on your iPhone or iPad before assuming the battery is dead.
  • Resetting your AirPods can fix sudden battery drain caused by software glitches.
  • Apple offers out-of-warranty battery replacement for a flat fee, which costs less than buying new AirPods.
  • If your AirPods are still under warranty, battery replacement may be covered at no cost.

Check your battery health before replacing anything

Before you assume your AirPods battery is failing, check how much charge they actually hold. On your iPhone or iPad, go to Settings, then Bluetooth, then tap the information icon (i) next to your AirPods name. You will see the current charge level of each AirPod and the case. If both AirPods show 100% but stop working after 30 minutes, the problem is likely software, not the battery itself.

If the battery percentage stays stuck at the same number even after charging for an hour, or if it jumps erratically between high and low, your AirPods may have a software issue. Try the reset steps in the next section before paying for a replacement.

Reset your AirPods to fix battery drain caused by software

A software glitch can cause AirPods to drain much faster than normal. Resetting them clears out corrupted settings and often restores normal battery life. To reset, place both AirPods in the case, close the lid, and wait 15 seconds. Then open the case, go to Settings on your iPhone, tap Bluetooth, and tap the information icon next to your AirPods. Scroll down and tap "Forget This Device," then confirm.

Now hold the setup button on the back of the case for 15 seconds until the light inside flashes amber, then white. This erases all settings. Place the AirPods back in the case, hold them near your iPhone, and follow the pairing steps that appear on screen. After you reconnect them, check the battery percentage again in Settings. Many people find that battery drain returns to normal after this reset.

Use Apple's out-of-warranty battery replacement service

If your AirPods are out of warranty and the battery no longer holds a charge, Apple will replace the entire AirPod or case for a flat fee. As of now, this costs around $69 for a single AirPod and around $79 for a case, though prices vary by region and model. This is cheaper than buying a new pair and faster than waiting for a mail-in repair.

Visit an Apple Store or go to apple.com/support to start a repair. You will need your AirPods and proof of purchase (though Apple can look up your account if you bought them with your Apple ID). The store will test them to confirm the battery is the problem, then either replace them on the spot or send them out for repair. Turnaround is usually one to three business days.

Check your warranty coverage before paying for repair

If you bought your AirPods less than one year ago, they are still under Apple's standard one-year limited warranty. Battery failure is covered at no cost during this period. To check your warranty status, go to apple.com/support, click "Check Coverage," and enter your AirPods serial number. You can find the serial number on the case by going to Settings, Bluetooth, the information icon next to your AirPods, and scrolling to the bottom.

If your AirPods are within warranty, you can take them to an Apple Store or mail them in for free replacement. If you purchased AppleCare+ when you bought your AirPods, coverage extends to two years and includes accidental damage, which may lower your out-of-pocket cost if something else is wrong.

Extend battery life while you wait for replacement

If your AirPods battery is failing but you still need to use them, you can stretch the time between charges. Turn off automatic ear detection by going to Settings, Bluetooth, the information icon next to your AirPods, and toggling off "Automatic Ear Detection." This stops the AirPods from pausing music when you remove them, which saves power if you are taking them in and out frequently.

Also lower the volume on your device — playing at maximum volume drains the battery much faster. Keep the case charged at all times so you can top up the AirPods between uses. If one AirPod is draining faster than the other, use only the good one and keep the failing one in the case until you can replace it.

Understand the difference between AirPod models and battery life

Different AirPod models have different battery life. Standard AirPods last about 5 hours per charge, AirPods Pro last about 6 hours, and AirPods Max last about 20 hours. The charging case adds 24 to 30 hours of total listening time for the smaller models. If you have owned your AirPods for more than three years, battery degradation is normal — lithium batteries lose capacity over time, even with good care.

If you are considering replacing your AirPods anyway, this is a good time to compare the current models. Newer versions often have longer battery life, better noise cancellation, or new features. You can recycle your old AirPods at an Apple Store or through Apple's mail-in recycling program, and you may receive a credit toward new ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace just one AirPod instead of buying a whole new pair?

Yes. Apple sells individual replacement AirPods for around $69 each, and you can also use their out-of-warranty replacement service for the same price. You do not need to replace both if only one is failing.

How long do AirPods batteries usually last before they need replacement?

Most AirPods last three to four years before the battery degrades noticeably. This depends on how often you charge them and whether you let them fully drain regularly. Keeping them between 20% and 80% charge extends battery lifespan.

What if my AirPods case battery is dead but the AirPods themselves work?

You can still use the AirPods, but you cannot recharge them without the case. Apple will replace the case for around $79 out of warranty, or for free if it is still under the one-year warranty.

Will resetting my AirPods erase my settings?

Yes, resetting removes all pairings and custom settings. You will need to pair them again with your iPhone, but your music library and playlists stay on your phone. The reset only affects the AirPods themselves.

Is it cheaper to buy new AirPods or replace the battery?

Replacing a single AirPod costs around $69, while a new pair costs $129 to $549 depending on the model. If only one AirPod or the case is failing, replacement is cheaper. If both AirPods are failing, buying a new pair may be worth it for the warranty coverage.