Best AirPods (2026): Which Apple Headphones Should You Buy?

If you've never used AirPods before, or it's been awhile since you upgraded, I'm here to help! Here are some answers to general questions, from what kind 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, since they use the standard Bluetooth protocol. But you'll lose out on features like Siri integration, device switching, and the ability to customize shortcuts or adjust software features. In contrast, Beats headphones offer a mix of Apple-friendly features and Android features, including a dedicated Android app and features like one-touch pairing.

Can you buy a single AirPod?

Yes! If you lose an AirPod, you can buy a replacement for the right or left AirPod through Apple. AppleCare+ doesn't cover lost or stolen AirPods, so it will cost you. You can use Apple's “Get an Estimate” tool to calculate the possible cost. The same applies if you lose the Charging Case. Your replacements will be new versions.

Why is only one AirPod working?

If you can't hear audio in one AirPod, make sure your case is fully charged. Plug the case in, and 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 AirPod is charging. Put both AirPods in your ears and test the audio. If that doesn't work, you could try to reset your AirPods.

Why isn't the AirPods case charging?

Start by checking your connections. If you have the AirPods or AirPods Pro, make sure the case is fully plugged in or properly set on the wireless charger (use Apple cables or Magsafe chargers if possible). Allow your AirPods to charge for at least 15 minutes. If you have the AirPods Max, allow them to charge for at least five minutes. Then, open the case and hold them near your iPhone or iPad. You should then see the charging icon appear when looking at the battery status. If that doesn't work, contact Apple Support.

If you lose an AirPod, can you find its location?

If you have the 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 turned on by going to your device's Settings app, tapping on your AirPods, and scrolling down to Find My. If it's already on, go to the Find My app, and under the Devices tab, tap on your AirPods. From there, you'll see the exact location of both your left bud and your right bud. If you're nearby, you can also press Tap Sound to listen for beeps. If you have the AirPods Pro (2nd generation) or newer along with an iPhone 11 or newer, you can also use Precision Finding.

If your AirPods show “No location found” or “Offline,” this means they're out of range or need to be charged, so you'll only see their last known location. At that point, you might be able to get directions, but you won't be able to use Find Nearby or play a sound. You'll get a notification on your Apple device if they do come back online.

Can you clean AirPods?

Yes. You can use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe down the AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max. But there are other 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 start by checking 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 on (Settings > Bluetooth), and double-check that AirPods appear in your list of devices via Settings and that they're selected. If they aren't on the list, hold the button on the back of the charging case until the status light flashes and follow the onscreen instructions.

How do you get rid of the crackling or static sounds on AirPods Pro?

If you're hearing crackling or static sounds from your AirPods Pro, make sure you're running the latest software. You should also check that your connected device is nearby and that there is no wireless interference or obstructions between you and your iPhone, iPad, or Mac (like walls or floors, a lot of Wi-Fi activity, wireless speakers, etc). If none of these are issues, try listening to audio from a different app to see if it's the app causing the problem.

Why isn't Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) working?

Double-check that you're running the latest software version on your Apple devices. When both AirPods Pro are in your ears, check that 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 to get additional controls, and tap the Listening Mode button. From their you can adjust the modes. You should also check if Adaptive Audio is on. It helps to clean the microphone and speaker since earwax and debris can build up over time.

Can you turn off Siri Notifications?

Yes, if you don't want Siri annoyingly reading aloud text messages and other notifications while you're trying to listen to music or a podcast, you can turn them off. Simply open the Settings App, Tap Siri or Apple Intelligence & Siri, and tap Announce Notifications. Then turn Announce Notifications off.