Already received your replacement and need help pairing it? Jump straight to our guide Pair a Replacement AirPod or Case. If you're still in the process of deciding what to buy, keep reading!
Did a bad stroke of luck leave you with a single or no case? Not to worry, single AirPods are a fraction of the cost. You'll just need to make sure they're compatible with your current AirPods set. Read on, and get back to listening in no time.
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Find your AirPods model number
Identify your AirPods generation
Choose the right replacement part
Find your AirPods model number
First, make sure you correctly identify what AirPod model you're going to need when you order a new one.
Knowing the exact model number of your remaining item(s) is extra important because you rarely mix generations or models.
- Each AirPod (left or right) is only compatible with its original generation/model.
- Each case is only compatible with its intended generation/model.
- Even if the shape looks similar, earbuds from one generation won't pair correctly with a case from another generation.
First step: find your device's model number in this help article (and then come back to this one).
Serial number vs. model number: What's the difference?
Make sure when you check it out that you're looking at the right number.
Serial number
- Usually 10-14+ digits long
- Unique to your individual set
- Used for warranty and Apple Support
Model number
- Shared across devices of the same generation
- This is what you need to identify the generation/type of AirPods or case you own
If you've lost one AirPod or your case, you need the model number to make sure the replacement part is compatible.
Identify your AirPods generation
I've got my model number. What kind of AirPods and/or case do I have?
| AirPods generation | AirPods model numbers (L/R) | Case model number(s) | Year released | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AirPods 1st generation | A1722 (L), A1523 (R) | A1602 | 2016 | Original model. Discontinued but still used. |
| AirPods 2nd generation | A2032 (L), A2031 (R) | A1602 (Standard), A1938 (Wireless) | 2019 | Both cases work with the same earbuds. You can swap A1602/A1938 within the second generation based on charging preference. |
| AirPods 3rd generation | A2565 (L), A2564 (R) | A2566 (MagSafe) | 2021 | Not compatible with 1st/2nd-generation. |
| AirPods Pro (1st generation) | A2083 (L), A2084 (R) | A2190 | 2019 | Only compatible within the Pro 1 family. |
| AirPods Pro (2nd generation, Lightning) | A2698 (L), A2699 (R) | A2931 | 2022 | Don't mix with the USB-C variant. Components must match within the Lightning set. |
| AirPods Pro (2nd generation, USB-C) | A3047 (L), A3048 (R) | A3049 | 2023 | Not cross-compatible with the Lightning variant. Components must match within the USB-C set. |
| AirPods Pro 3 | A3063 (L), A3064 (R) | A3065 | 2025 | Not compatible with 1st/2nd generations |
| AirPods Max (Lightning) | A2096 (over-ear unit) | N/A (Smart Case accessory) | 2020 | Uses Lightning for charging/audio (via cable). The serial number is under the left ear cushion. |
| AirPods Max (USB-C) | A2969 (over-ear unit) | N/A (Smart Case accessory) | 2024 | Updated to USB-C. Same Smart Case concept; no separate "charging case" model number. |
| AirPods 4 (Standard) | A3053 (L), A3050 (R) | A3054 (USB-C MagSafe case) | 2024/2025 | 4th-generation standard model. Check these A-numbers on the device or packaging to confirm. |
| AirPods 4 (with ANC) | A3056 (L), A3055 (R) | A3057 (USB-C MagSafe case) | 2024/2025 | 4th-generation tier with Active Noise Cancellation. Uses its own matching case; not cross-compatible with AirPods 4 standard. |
Pro tip: check out Apple's compatibility article for the most updated matching info
Choose the right replacement part
Once you've identified your exact model numbers, here's how to choose the correct single replacement (left, right, or case), with up-to-date mappings and clear rules.
Replacement rules you must follow
-
Match generation and variant exactly
- AirPods Pro 2 comes in two variants: Lightning (2022) and USB-C (2023). Parts are not cross-compatible.
- AirPods 4 have two tiers: Standard and with ANC. Don't mix parts between these two tiers.
-
Match the component side
- Buy Left if you're replacing the left earbud; buy Right for the right earbud.
-
Don't mix across generations
- AirPods 1/2/3, AirPods 4, AirPods Pro 1/2/3, and AirPods Max families are not cross-compatible with each other.
Tip: Model = A-number printed in "Settings" or on hardware (e.g., A3047). A serial number is a long, unique code. Don't use a serial number to determine compatibility.
Ready to buy?
You can find all our selection on our Back Market website or app. Make sure what you buy is a single AirPod or case — not a full set — to avoid higher prices.