Yes, you can replace one AirPod, but Apple charges for it and the process depends on which model you own

If one of your AirPods stops working or gets lost, you do not have to buy an entire new pair. Apple sells individual replacement AirPods through their website, in Apple Stores, and through authorized retailers. The catch: a single replacement AirPod costs roughly half the price of a full pair, and Apple will only sell you a replacement if your device is out of warranty or if the damage is not covered under your warranty.

The exact price and process varies by which AirPods model you own — standard AirPods, AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, or AirPods Pro 2. Apple treats a lost AirPod differently from a broken one, and they treat accidental damage differently from a manufacturing defect. Understanding which category your situation falls into will tell you whether you are paying out of pocket or whether Apple covers it.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple sells individual replacement AirPods for roughly 40 to 50 percent of the full pair price, depending on the model.
  • If your AirPods are still under the one-year limited warranty and the damage is a manufacturing defect, Apple may replace one at no cost.
  • Lost AirPods are never covered under warranty — you pay the replacement price whether they are a week old or a year old.
  • You can order a replacement AirPod online from Apple, buy one in an Apple Store, or contact Apple Support to discuss your specific situation first.
  • Before ordering, confirm which AirPod model you own, because a replacement for AirPods Pro will not work with standard AirPods.

How much a single replacement AirPod costs

A single replacement AirPod for the standard model costs around $69. A single AirPod Pro costs around $89. AirPods Max replacements are significantly more expensive. These prices can shift, so check Apple's website for the current amount before you order.

The replacement price is not exactly half the pair price — it is usually slightly more than half, because you are paying for the individual unit plus Apple's handling and shipping. If you have AppleCare+ coverage on your AirPods, you may pay a reduced amount or nothing at all, depending on whether the damage is accidental or a defect.

When Apple covers the cost under warranty

Apple's standard one-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects — things like a speaker that never worked, a battery that will not hold a charge, or a hinge that breaks under normal use. If one of your AirPods fails because of a defect within the first year, Apple will usually replace it at no cost.

The warranty does not cover accidental damage, water damage from dropping them in a sink, or loss. If you sat on your AirPod and cracked the case, or you left one in a pocket and it went through the wash, you are paying the replacement price. If you lost one, you are also paying — there is no warranty coverage for lost items.

To find out whether your situation qualifies as a defect, contact Apple Support through their website or by calling the number on your receipt. Have your serial number ready. Apple will ask you to describe what happened and may ask you to run a diagnostic test through your phone to confirm the AirPod is not connecting properly.

How to order a replacement AirPod online

Go to Apple's website and search for "AirPods replacement" or navigate to the AirPods product page for your specific model. You will see an option to buy a single replacement unit. Select the correct model — this is important, because AirPods Pro replacements will not pair with standard AirPods, and mixing models will not work.

Add the replacement to your cart and check out as you would with any online purchase. Apple will ship it to you, usually within three to five business days. When it arrives, open the case and hold the replacement AirPod near your phone or other device. Your phone will recognize it and prompt you to connect it to your existing pair. The new AirPod will sync to your existing left or right AirPod automatically.

Buying a replacement in an Apple Store

If you want the replacement when ready, visit an Apple Store with your device and the remaining AirPod. A specialist can confirm which model you own and sell you the replacement on the spot. You can walk out and start using it right away — the pairing happens when ready when you open the case near your phone.

Bring your device with you so the specialist can verify which AirPods you own. If you are unsure whether your situation qualifies for warranty coverage, the specialist can check your purchase date and run a diagnostic before you pay. This is faster than calling support and waiting for a callback.

What happens if you have AppleCare+

AppleCare+ is Apple's extended protection plan, and it covers accidental damage to AirPods for a reduced fee. If you have AppleCare+ and one AirPod is damaged, you typically pay a service fee of around $29 instead of the full replacement price. If the damage is a manufacturing defect, AppleCare+ covers it at no cost.

AppleCare+ does not cover loss. If you lost an AirPod and have AppleCare+, you still pay the full replacement price. Check your receipt or your Apple account to confirm whether you purchased AppleCare+ when you bought your AirPods — many people forget they have it.

Pairing a new AirPod to your existing pair

When your replacement arrives, the process is straightforward. Open the case of your existing AirPods near your phone or other Apple device. Place the new AirPod in the case. Your device will recognize it and ask you to confirm the connection. Tap "Connect" and the new AirPod will pair automatically.

If your device does not recognize the new AirPod, open the Settings app, go to Bluetooth, and forget your AirPods entirely. Then open the case of your AirPods (with the new one inside) near your phone and hold the setup button on the back of the case for 15 seconds. Your phone will re-pair the entire set, including the new AirPod.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use one AirPod without the other?

Yes. A single AirPod will work on its own for calls, music, or podcasts. Audio will come through one ear only, but the connection is stable and the microphone works for calls. You do not need to buy a replacement if you are comfortable using just one.

What if my AirPod is still under warranty but I do not have the receipt?

Contact Apple Support with your serial number. You can find the serial number in Settings > Bluetooth > AirPods (your model) > Info, or on the original box. Apple can look up your purchase date in their system if you bought them from an Apple Store or Apple.com with your Apple ID.

Can I return a single replacement AirPod if I change my mind?

Yes, Apple allows returns within 14 days of purchase. If you ordered online, you can initiate a return through your Apple account. If you bought it in a store, bring it back with the receipt and the original packaging.

Will a replacement AirPod from a third-party seller work?

Third-party sellers sometimes offer replacement AirPods at lower prices, but there is no may provide they are genuine or that they will pair correctly. Buying directly from Apple ensures the AirPod is authentic and will work with your existing pair. The price difference is usually small enough that the official replacement is worth it.

What if both of my AirPods are broken or lost?

If both are damaged or lost, you have two options: buy two individual replacements from Apple, or buy a new pair. Buying two replacements usually costs slightly more than a new pair, so compare the prices before you decide. A new pair also comes with a fresh warranty.