AirPods Pro 2nd Gen Price Comparison
AirPods Pro (2nd gen) retail at $249 from Apple but Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart consistently undercut by $30–50.
Check current price on Cheapzix →AirPods Pro versions explained
AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C, $249) — The current model (2023 revision). USB-C charging case, up to 30 hours total with case, Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness. This is what you want to buy new.
AirPods Pro 2 (Lightning, older) — Same audio performance, Lightning case. Still sold new at some retailers below $200 — a good deal if you're already on Lightning. Check condition carefully when buying.
AirPods 4 with ANC ($179) — Not AirPods Pro, but worth comparing. Lacks ear tips (so fit varies), but ANC is now close to Pro quality. $70 cheaper and a strong alternative if you find Pro ear tips uncomfortable.
Where to buy AirPods Pro cheapest
Amazon and Target consistently run the best year-round deals — AirPods Pro often dip to $189–209 outside of peak sale periods. Costco typically prices them at $179–199 with AppleCare included, which is the best value if you're a member. Apple Certified Refurbished units at ~$210 include a new shell, new ear tips, a new case, and a 1-year warranty. The live comparison above shows current prices from all major retailers.
AirPods Pro 2nd Gen vs 1st Gen — what changed
The 2nd generation AirPods Pro (released 2022, USB-C revision 2023) introduced Apple's H2 chip, which powers significantly improved Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode compared to the original H1-based 1st gen. Adaptive Audio — a blend of ANC and Transparency that adjusts in real time to your environment — is a 2nd gen exclusive.
The USB-C vs Lightning distinction applies only within the 2nd gen. Both share identical audio hardware; the difference is the charging port on the case. The USB-C model is Apple's current shipping version. Lightning units are still available new from some retailers and perform identically — worth considering if you're already in a Lightning ecosystem and the price is lower.
The 1st gen is no longer sold new by Apple and lacks Adaptive Audio, the improved ANC, and the H2 chip. If buying secondhand, confirm you're getting 2nd gen before paying a premium.