Apple’s AirPods should be on every iPhone owner’s list of earbuds to try before exploring third-party options. The wireless earbuds offer a wealth of exclusive features for Apple users, and they make for a great Mother’s Day gift or replacement for an aging pair of earbuds.
Fortunately, the second-gen AirPods are down to $79.99 ($50 off) at Amazon and Best Buy right now, which is just $10 more than they were during Black Friday. The third-gen AirPods, meanwhile, are also matching their all-time low of $139.99 ($30 off) at Amazon, Best Buy, and Target, while the second-gen AirPods Pro with USB-C can be had for $179.99 ($70 off) at Amazon and Target (also an all-time low).
If you’re after a simple pair of AirPods and could care less for the bells and whistles found on the newer models, the second-gen AirPods are worth a look. They lack the IPX4 water resistance found on the third-gen model — along with support for head-tracking spatial audio, wireless charging, and Apple’s improved Find My features — but they still offer reliable performance and great ease of use. The third-gen earbuds feature better battery life and sound quality as well, but not so much that we’d deter you from saving $60 on the older pair if your budget is really tight.
Neither of Apple’s entry-level AirPods can match the second-gen AirPods Pro, of course, which are the newest available in the line. For a reasonable jump in price, you’ll get water resistance, better sound quality with head-tracking spatial audio, and superb noise cancellation. Onboard volume controls are another new addition, and it’s easy to find the best fit for your ears, thanks to the four replacement ear tips included in the box. Apple’s latest AirPods Pro also come with a USB-C charging case and dust resistance, making them slightly more capable than the 2022 model.
