Does Airpods Go on Sale on Black Friday

Yes, AirPods almost always go on sale on Black Friday. In fact, Black Friday and Cyber Monday are widely considered the best times of year to buy AirPods at a discount, with savings often ranging from $30 to $80 off retail price. In this guide, you’ll learn how deep the discounts typically go, which models get the best deals, where to find the lowest prices, and how to avoid common shopping mistakes.

Every year, as Thanksgiving approaches, millions of shoppers start asking the same question: do AirPods go on sale on Black Friday? It’s a smart question because AirPods aren’t cheap. A brand-new pair can easily set you back $129 to $549, depending on the model. Nobody wants to pay full price if they don’t have to.

Here’s the good news: AirPods absolutely go on sale on Black Friday, and the discounts can be significant. But there’s a catch. Apple itself almost never drops its prices, even on the biggest shopping day of the year. Instead, it’s the retailers who sell AirPods—places like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target—that offer the savings. That means knowing where and when to shop is just as important as knowing that deals exist in the first place.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about AirPods Black Friday sales. You’ll learn about historical discount patterns, the best places to shop, which models offer the deepest savings, and how to spot a truly good deal versus a marketing gimmick. Whether you’re eyeing the budget-friendly AirPods 4, the noise-canceling AirPods Pro 2, or the premium AirPods Max, this guide will help you save money.

Key Takeaways

• Black Friday AirPods deals are nearly guaranteed: Apple rarely discounts AirPods directly, but authorized retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target consistently offer Black Friday savings every year.
• Expected discounts range from $30 to $80: Depending on the model, you can typically save 15% to 30% off the regular retail price during Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
• AirPods Pro and AirPods Max see the biggest markdowns: Premium models often receive the deepest percentage discounts, sometimes reaching all-time low prices.
• Older AirPods generations get the steepest deals: When Apple releases a new version, previous-generation AirPods are frequently discounted by $50 or more.
• Cyber Monday extends Black Friday savings: If you miss the Friday deals, Cyber Monday often offers comparable or even better discounts online.
• Stock can run out fast: The most popular models, especially AirPods Pro, frequently sell out within hours of deals going live.
• Compare prices across multiple retailers: The “lowest” advertised price isn’t always the best deal when you factor in shipping, return policies, and gift card incentives.

Do AirPods Go on Sale on Black Friday? The Short Answer

Let’s address the main question right away: yes, AirPods go on sale on Black Friday. In fact, they go on sale almost every single year, and the discounts have become one of the most anticipated tech deals of the holiday shopping season. Think of Black Friday AirPods deals like a yearly tradition—shoppers expect them, and retailers deliver.

According to data from deal-tracking websites like DealNews and CamelCamelCamel, AirPods have appeared in Black Friday advertisements from major retailers every year since at least 2017. The discounts typically range between $30 and $80 off the regular retail price, with some models seeing even deeper cuts during flash sales or doorbuster events.

Why AirPods Are Such a Popular Black Friday Item

AirPods consistently rank among the top-selling tech products during Black Friday, and for good reason. They’re a gift that almost everyone loves, they work seamlessly with iPhones (which are everywhere), and they make a relatively affordable luxury purchase compared to bigger-ticket items like laptops or TVs. Retailers know this, so they use AirPods as a “hook” to draw shoppers into their stores and websites.

Did You Know? In 2022, AirPods were one of the top 10 most-purchased tech items on Black Friday, according to Salesforce shopping data. That kind of popularity is exactly why retailers fight so hard to offer competitive prices.

How Much Do AirPods Go on Sale for on Black Friday?

Now that we know AirPods do go on sale, the next logical question is: how much can you actually save? The answer depends on which model you’re looking at, but here’s a general breakdown based on historical Black Friday sales data.

AirPods (Standard and Mid-Tier Models)

The standard AirPods and AirPods 4 typically see discounts of $20 to $40 on Black Friday. For example, the AirPods 4 (without Active Noise Cancellation) usually retails for $129 but has dropped as low as $89 during Black Friday sales. The AirPods 4 with ANC, which retails for $179, has been spotted for around $139 to $149.

AirPods Pro

The AirPods Pro and AirPods Pro 2 consistently receive some of the deepest Black Friday discounts. In recent years, these models have been marked down by $50 to $80, with prices occasionally dropping to all-time lows. For context, the AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C retails for $249, but Black Friday prices have dipped as low as $169 in some years.

AirPods Max

AirPods Max, Apple’s premium over-ear headphones, also see significant Black Friday discounts, though they’re less predictable. These $549 headphones have occasionally been discounted by $100 or more, but stock can be limited. Because AirPods Max don’t sell in the same massive volumes as the in-ear models, retailers sometimes offer smaller discounts or bundle them with gift cards instead.

Here’s a simple way to think about it: imagine a tiered cake. The top tier (AirPods Max) gets a smaller slice off, but the middle and bottom tiers (AirPods Pro and standard AirPods) get the biggest slices because that’s where retailers compete hardest for your money.

Where to Find the Best AirPods Black Friday Deals

Knowing that AirPods go on sale is only half the battle. The other half is knowing where to look. Not all retailers offer the same deals, and some consistently outperform others year after year.

Amazon

Amazon is typically the go-to destination for AirPods Black Friday deals. The e-commerce giant often matches or beats competitors’ prices, and its lightning deals can produce eye-popping discounts. Amazon also offers the convenience of fast shipping for Prime members, which is a big plus during the chaotic shopping season. In past years, Amazon has offered the AirPods Pro 2 for as low as $159 during early Black Friday sales in November.

Best Buy

Best Buy is another reliable source for AirPods discounts. The electronics retailer frequently offers price matching, which means if Amazon drops its price, Best Buy will usually follow. Best Buy also tends to throw in extras like free shipping or bonus gift cards with larger purchases, which can sweeten the deal even further.

Walmart

Walmart has historically offered some of the most aggressive AirPods Black Friday prices, particularly on standard AirPods models. The retail giant often releases its Black Friday ads weeks in advance, giving shoppers time to plan. Walmart’s doorbuster deals, available both online and in-store, are especially worth watching.

Target

Target is another major player in the Black Friday AirPods space. Target’s deals often come with the added bonus of Target Circle rewards or gift card promotions, which can effectively lower the price even further. Target also tends to extend its Black Friday sales throughout the entire month of November and into December.

Apple

Here’s a fun fact that surprises many shoppers: Apple itself rarely discounts AirPods on Black Friday. However, Apple does occasionally offer gift cards with AirPods purchases during the holiday season, which is its version of a sale. For example, Apple has been known to throw in a $25 or $50 Apple gift card with AirPods purchases during the holidays. It’s not a direct discount, but it’s something.

Other Retailers to Watch

• Costco: If you’re a member, Costco sometimes offers AirPods at below-market prices, especially around Black Friday.
• Sam’s Club: Similar to Costco, Sam’s Club occasionally bundles AirPods with additional perks for members.
• B&H Photo: This electronics specialist often matches or beats Amazon’s prices, particularly on higher-end models like AirPods Max.
• Adorama: Another electronics retailer worth checking, especially if you’re buying multiple Apple products.

When Do AirPods Black Friday Deals Start?

Timing is everything when it comes to scoring the best AirPods deals. The phrase “Black Friday” technically refers to the day after Thanksgiving, but in practice, the sales start much earlier—and they often end much sooner than you’d expect.

Early Black Friday Sales (Early to Mid-November)

Many retailers launch “early Black Friday” sales in early November, sometimes as early as the first week of the month. These deals are often identical to or nearly identical to the prices offered on the actual Black Friday weekend. If you want to avoid the rush and shop from your couch, early November is a great time to start watching for deals.

Black Friday Week (The Week of Thanksgiving)

The week of Thanksgiving is when the bulk of Black Friday ads drop. Major retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target release their official Black Friday ads roughly 7 to 10 days before Thanksgiving, giving shoppers time to plan their strategies. The best deals, including any doorbuster pricing, typically go live on Thanksgiving evening or Black Friday morning.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday Weekend

Black Friday itself and the following Cyber Monday are the peak shopping days. This is when you’ll find the most deals, but also the most competition. Popular AirPods models, especially the AirPods Pro, can sell out within hours. If you see a price you like during this window, don’t wait—grab it.

Cyber Monday and Beyond

If you miss the Black Friday deals, don’t panic. Cyber Monday, the Monday after Black Friday, often features comparable or even better online-only deals. Some retailers also extend their Black Friday pricing through the following week, especially if they have excess inventory. The worst time to buy is in mid-to-late December, when most holiday deals have expired.

Think of it like a wave. The deals start small in early November, grow into a giant wave on Black Friday, and then gradually recede through Cyber Monday and the first week of December. You want to catch the wave at its peak.

Which AirPods Models Offer the Best Black Friday Deals?

Not all AirPods are created equal when it comes to Black Friday discounts. Here’s a closer look at which models tend to offer the best value during the holiday shopping season.

AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C)

The AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C is the current flagship in-ear model, and it consistently receives some of the most aggressive Black Friday discounts. Because it’s the most popular premium model, retailers use it to attract customers, which means deep discounts. If you’re looking for noise cancellation and the best audio quality in an in-ear design, this is the model to watch on Black Friday.

AirPods 4

The AirPods 4 are Apple’s latest standard AirPods, available in two versions: one with Active Noise Cancellation and one without. The non-ANC version is already the most affordable AirPods, so its Black Friday discounts tend to be smaller in dollar terms (around $20 to $30 off), but the percentage savings can still be significant. The ANC version sees slightly larger discounts and is a popular choice for first-time AirPods buyers.

AirPods Max

AirPods Max are Apple’s premium over-ear headphones, and they offer the best audio quality in the AirPods lineup. However, because they’re expensive to begin with and don’t sell in the same volumes as the in-ear models, Black Friday discounts can be inconsistent. Some years see $100 off; other years see only $50 off or bundle deals. If you have your heart set on AirPods Max, it’s worth shopping around and being patient.

Older Generation AirPods

When Apple releases a new generation of AirPods, the previous generation often gets steep discounts. For example, when the AirPods 4 launched, the older AirPods 3 saw price drops at third-party retailers. If you don’t need the latest and greatest, shopping for previous-generation models during Black Friday can yield excellent savings—sometimes 30% to 40% off the original price.

Did You Know? According to a 2023 report by Adobe Analytics, the average discount on Apple AirPods during Black Friday was 19%, which was among the highest average discounts for any Apple product category.

Tips for Getting the Best AirPods Black Friday Deal

Finding a great AirPods deal on Black Friday isn’t just about luck—it’s about strategy. Here are some proven tips to help you save the most money.

1. Set Up Price Alerts

Tools like CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon), Honey, and Slickdeals allow you to set up price alerts for specific AirPods models. When the price drops to your target, you’ll get a notification. This is a great way to stay informed without constantly refreshing web pages.

2. Compare Prices Across Retailers

Don’t assume the first deal you see is the best one. Use price comparison tools or check multiple retailers before making a purchase. The same AirPods Pro 2 might be $179 at Amazon but $169 at Walmart, with Target offering a $10 gift card on top of a $179 price tag. Math it out to find the true best deal.

3. Check for Bundles and Gift Cards

Sometimes a deal that looks modest on paper is actually better when you factor in gift cards or bundled accessories. For example, a $20 discount plus a $15 gift card is effectively a $35 discount. Read the fine print and calculate the total value.

4. Buy Early if You Can

The best deals can sell out within hours, especially on popular models. If you see a price you’re happy with, don’t wait. Early November deals are often just as good as the ones offered on Black Friday itself, and you’ll avoid the stress of last-minute shopping.

5. Beware of Counterfeits

When prices seem too good to be true, they sometimes are. Stick to authorized retailers and avoid third-party sellers with low ratings or no return policy. Counterfeit AirPods are a real problem, especially on online marketplaces, and they can look surprisingly convincing.

6. Consider Refurbished Options

If you’re really looking to save, consider buying refurbished AirPods directly from Apple. Apple’s Certified Refurbished products are tested, come with a new battery and outer shell, and include a full one-year warranty. They’re typically 15% to 20% off the retail price, and they often go on sale during Black Friday for even more savings.

7. Use Cashback and Rewards Programs

Credit card rewards, cashback apps like Rakuten, and retailer loyalty programs can all stack on top of Black Friday discounts. If you’re already buying AirPods, why not get an extra 2% to 10% back on top of the sale price? It’s free money.

Here’s a simple analogy: think of Black Friday AirPods shopping like a treasure hunt. The treasure (a great deal) is out there, but you need a map (price alerts), a metal detector (price comparison tools), and a little patience to find it.

Common Myths About AirPods Black Friday Sales

There are a lot of misconceptions floating around about AirPods Black Friday deals. Let’s clear up a few of the most common ones.

Myth 1: Apple Never Discounts AirPods

This is partially true but misleading. Apple itself rarely discounts AirPods directly, but Apple’s retail partners absolutely do. And as mentioned, Apple does sometimes offer gift cards with AirPods purchases during the holidays. So while you might not see “20% off” on Apple’s website, discounts are absolutely available if you know where to look.

Myth 2: Black Friday Deals Are Always the Best of the Year

Black Friday deals on AirPods are usually among the best, but they’re not always the absolute lowest. Sometimes, in late January or during back-to-school sales in August, you can find comparable or even better prices on older models. Black Friday is reliable, but it’s not the only opportunity to save.

Myth 3: You Need to Wait Until Black Friday Itself

As discussed earlier, many retailers start their Black Friday sales weeks in advance. The best prices are often available throughout November, not just on the Friday after Thanksgiving. Waiting for the actual day can mean missing out on great early deals—or worse, finding that the model you wanted is sold out.

Myth 4: Cyber Monday Is Always Better Than Black Friday

Cyber Monday is great, but it’s not automatically better than Black Friday. Both days have their own deals, and sometimes Black Friday wins, sometimes Cyber Monday wins. The smart approach is to monitor prices throughout the entire week and buy whenever you see the best price.

The Bottom Line: Should You Buy AirPods on Black Friday?

So, do AirPods go on sale on Black Friday? Absolutely. Should you buy them on Black Friday? In most cases, yes. Black Friday remains one of the best times of year to purchase AirPods at a discount, with savings ranging from $20 to $80 or more depending on the model. The key is to do your homework ahead of time, know which model you want, and be ready to act quickly when a great deal appears.

If you’re shopping for a gift, Black Friday is a no-brainer. The combination of high demand and aggressive retailer competition means you’ll almost certainly find a meaningful discount. If you’re shopping for yourself, Black Friday is still a great opportunity, especially if you’d otherwise pay full price at the Apple Store.

Just remember the cardinal rules: shop early if you can, compare prices across multiple retailers, watch out for counterfeits, and don’t get so caught up in chasing the “perfect” deal that you forget to enjoy the savings you’re already getting. A 25% discount is still a great deal, even if someone somewhere got 30% off.

Happy deal hunting, and may your AirPods arrive just in time for the holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do AirPods go on sale on Black Friday every year?

Yes, AirPods have gone on sale on Black Friday every year for at least the past several years. Authorized retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target consistently offer discounts on various AirPods models during the Black Friday shopping weekend, with savings typically ranging from $20 to $80 off retail price.

What is the cheapest AirPods deal on Black Friday?

The cheapest AirPods Black Friday deals are usually on the standard AirPods 4 (without Active Noise Cancellation), which can drop to around $89 from a retail price of $129. Older-generation AirPods, when discounted, can sometimes be found for even less, especially when retailers are clearing inventory.

When do AirPods Black Friday deals typically start?

AirPods Black Friday deals typically start in early to mid-November, with many retailers launching “early Black Friday” promotions two to three weeks before Thanksgiving. The peak of the deals usually occurs on Black Friday itself and continues through Cyber Monday, with some sales extending into early December.

Does Apple itself offer AirPods discounts on Black Friday?

Apple rarely offers direct discounts on AirPods during Black Friday. However, Apple does occasionally provide Apple gift cards (typically $25 to $50) with AirPods purchases during the holiday season, which can be used toward future Apple purchases. For deeper discounts, third-party retailers are the way to go.

Are Black Friday AirPods deals too good to be true?

Most Black Friday AirPods deals from authorized retailers are legitimate and offer real savings. However, shoppers should be cautious of deals that seem unusually low or come from unknown third-party sellers, as counterfeit AirPods are a known issue on online marketplaces. Always buy from authorized retailers with solid return policies.

Is it better to buy AirPods on Black Friday or Cyber Monday?

Both Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer strong AirPods deals, and there’s no clear winner. Black Friday tends to feature more in-store and online deals, while Cyber Monday focuses on online-only promotions. The best strategy is to monitor prices throughout the entire week and buy whenever you find the lowest price on the model you want.