Best AirPods (2026): Which Apple Headphones Should You Buy?
If you’ve never used AirPods before, or it’s been a while since you upgraded, here are some answers to common questions, from what kinds of features you can expect to how to clean your buds.
Do AirPods work with Android?
Yes, you can use AirPods with non-Apple devices, because they use the Bluetooth protocol. But you’ll lose features like Siri integration, device switching, and the ability to customize shortcuts or adjust software features. In contrast, Beats headphones offer a combination of Apple-friendly features and Android features, including a dedicated Android app and features like one-touch pairing.
Can you afford one AirPods?
Yes! If you lose an AirPod, you can purchase a replacement right or left AirPod through Apple. AppleCare+ does not cover lost or stolen AirPods, so it will cost you. You can use Apple’s Get an Estimate tool to calculate potential costs. The same applies if you lose the Charging Case. Your replacement will be new versions.
Why does only one AirPod work?
If you can’t hear sound from one AirPods, make sure your case is fully charged. Connect the case, then place both AirPods in the case and charge them for at least 30 seconds. Next, open the charging case and use your iPhone or iPad to check that each AirPods is charging. Put both AirPods in your ears and check the sound. If that doesn’t work, you can try resetting your AirPods.
Why doesn’t the AirPods case charge?
Start by checking your connection. If you have AirPods or AirPods Pro, make sure the case is fully connected or properly set up for a wireless charger (use Apple cables or Magsafe chargers if possible). Allow your AirPods to charge for at least 15 minutes. If you have AirPods Max, let them charge for at least five minutes. Then, open the case and hold them close to your iPhone or iPad. You should see a charging icon appear when you check the battery status. If that doesn’t work, contact Apple Support.
If you lose an AirPod, can you get a replacement?
If you have AirPods 3 (or newer), AirPods Pro (all versions), and AirPods Max, you can track your AirPods using the Find My app. First, make sure Find My is turned on by going to your device’s Settings app, tapping your AirPods, and scrolling down to Find My. If it’s already open, go to the Find My app and, under the Devices tab, tap your AirPods. From there, you will see the exact location of both your left bud and your right bud. If you are close, you can press again Tap Sound listening for beeps. If you have AirPods Pro (second generation) or newer and an iPhone 11 or newer, you can also use Precision Finding.
If your AirPods show “No location found” or “Not connected to the Internet,” this means they are out of range or need to be charged, so you will only see their last known location. At that time, you may be able to get directions, but you won’t be able to use Find Nearby or play audio. You will receive a notification on your Apple device when it comes back online.
Can you clean AirPods?
Yes. You can use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max. But there are some additional steps you can take, depending on the type of AirPods you have. Apple has steps on how to properly clean each version here, and we’ve also got a full guide on how to clean your earbuds.
Why won’t AirPods connect to my device?
If your AirPods won’t connect, you should first check that your iPhone, iPad, and Mac are all updated to the latest version of their respective operating systems. Then, make sure both AirPods are charging, Bluetooth is turned on (Settings > Bluetooth), and double check that AirPods appear in your list of devices in Settings and that they are selected. If they are not listed, hold the button on the back of the charging case until the status light turns on and follow the on-screen instructions.
How to remove ringing or static sounds from AirPods Pro?
If you’re hearing screeching or static sounds from your AirPods Pro, make sure you’re running the latest software. You should also check that your connected device is close and that there are no wireless interference or obstacles between you and your iPhone, iPad, or Mac (such as walls or floors, too much Wi-Fi activity, wireless speakers, etc.). If these aren’t problems, try listening to the audio from a different app to see if it’s the app that’s causing the problem.
Why does active noise cancellation (ANC) not work?
Check that you are running the latest version of the software on your Apple devices. If both AirPods Pro are in your ears, check if ANC is turned on by swiping down to open Control Center on your iPhone or iPad. Then, while wearing your AirPods, touch and hold the volume slider for additional controls, then press the listening mode button. From them you can adjust the methods. You should also check if Adaptive Audio is turned on. It helps to clean the microphone and speaker as earwax and debris can build up over time.
Can you turn off Siri Notifications?
Of course, if you don’t want Siri to annoyingly read out text messages and other notifications while you’re trying to listen to music or a podcast, you can turn them off. Just open the Settings app, tap Siri or Apple Intelligence & Siri, and tap Announce Notifications. Then turn off Announcement Notifications.
