Figuring out how much earbuds cost depends almost entirely on what you’re buying: a pair of budget wired buds, a mid-tier wireless set, or a flagship noise-cancelling model. Apple’s current lineup alone spans $129 to $249, and that’s before you factor in sale prices and older generations still sitting on store shelves. Here’s the breakdown you actually need before you spend.
What Apple Currently Charges For Earbuds
Apple’s current earbuds lineup gives you a clean reference point for the premium end of the market. The company sells four main models, each aimed at a different buyer.
- AirPods 4 — $129, the standard entry-level wireless model.
- AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation — $179, adds ANC to the base design.
- AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C) — $249, with the USB-C charging case and a speaker for Find My. This is the previous Pro generation, still listed on Apple’s site.
Notice that both Pro models sit at the same $249 price point, which trips people up. The AirPods Pro 2 launched at $249 back in September 2022, and when Apple refreshed it with a USB-C charging case instead of Lightning, the price stayed put. They’re separate generations at the same price, so check the model name carefully before you buy.
What About Non-Apple Earbuds?
Step outside Apple’s store and the price range widens dramatically. Budget wired earbuds can cost as little as $10 to $30, and basic wireless models from brands like Anker, JBL, and Sony start around $30 to $60. Mid-tier true wireless earbuds with decent sound and basic noise isolation typically run $80 to $150.
The premium tier is where Apple’s lineup actually sets the benchmark. Most flagship noise-cancelling earbuds from Sony, Samsung, and Bose land right around the $200 to $250 range, matching the AirPods Pro price point. That $249 figure functions as the unofficial ceiling for mainstream wireless earbuds, and the table below summarizes the full picture.
| Earbud Type | Typical Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Budget wired | $10–$30 | Basic listening, zero battery worries |
| Budget wireless | $30–$60 | Everyday use without premium features |
| Mid-tier with ANC | $80–$150 | Noise cancellation on a budget |
| AirPods 4 | $129 | Apple users who skip ANC |
| AirPods 4 with ANC | $179 | Apple users who want noise cancellation |
| Premium wireless with ANC | $200–$250 | Best sound and features |
| AirPods Pro 2 or Pro 3 | $249 | Apple’s flagship earbuds |
Why Sale Prices Confuse The Picture
Retailer discounts can temporarily undercut Apple’s MSRP by $60 to $80 or more, which makes “how much do earbuds cost” trickier than it looks. The AirPods Pro 2, for instance, has been spotted around $169 to $190 during sale periods at major retailers. Those are legitimate deals, but they’re promotions, not the standard price. If you price-check on a random Tuesday, you might see a number that’s $80 below list and assume the market has shifted.
One more trap: over-ear headphones are not earbuds. Stick to the in-ear models when you’re budgeting.
If you’re ready to compare specific models across the full price range, our roundup of 50 tested earbuds breaks down the best options at every tier.
How Much Should You Actually Spend?
Match the price to your needs, not the hype. If you just need something for podcasts on a commute, a $40 pair of wireless earbuds gets the job done. If noise cancellation matters — for flights, open offices, or loud gyms — plan to spend $150 or more. And if you’re deep in Apple’s ecosystem and want seamless switching between iPhone, iPad, and Mac, the $249 AirPods Pro models are the obvious pick.
One honest caveat: Apple’s earbuds are designed primarily for Apple devices. Android users can pair them, but they lose features like quick switching and spatial audio. If you’re on Android, a premium pair from Sony or Samsung will often serve you better at the same price.
The real answer to how much earbuds cost is a range, not a number. Budget $30 to $60 for basics, $100 to $180 for a solid mid-tier pair with noise cancellation, and $249 for the flagship tier. The right amount is the one that matches where you’ll actually use them.
FAQs
Why Are The Two AirPods Pro Models Both $249?
Apple kept the AirPods Pro 2 at its original $249 launch price when it upgraded the charging case from Lightning to USB-C, and the newer AirPods Pro 3 also launched at $249. The two generations are separate products currently listed side by side, so the identical price is a coincidence of pricing strategy rather than a typo.
Do Sale Prices Reflect The Real Cost Of Earbuds?
No. Retailer promotions can drop prices $60 to $80 below the manufacturer’s list price, but those deals are temporary. A sale price represents the real cost only on the day you buy. For accurate budgeting, treat the MSRP as the baseline and any discount as a bonus.
Can I Get Good Earbuds For Under $100?
Yes. Budget wireless models from brands like Anker, JBL, and Sony deliver solid sound for $30 to $60, and capable noise-cancelling options appear around $80. You’ll skip premium features like wireless charging and top-tier ANC, but the core earbud experience holds up well at lower price points.
References & Sources
- Apple. “AirPods — Apple” Official lineup page with current model names and list prices.
- Apple. “AirPods Pro 2 — Apple” Product listing confirming the USB-C charging case and Find My speaker.
- Engadget. “Apple’s second-generation AirPods Pro are back down to their lowest price ever” Reports retailer sale pricing well below the $249 MSRP.