Can I Turn in My Airpod2 to Get Airpod Pro

Wondering if you can trade in your AirPods 2 for AirPods Pro? The short answer is yes, but not directly through Apple’s standard AirPods trade-in program in most regions. Instead, you have several practical options, including Apple Trade-In where available, third-party buyback services, or selling your AirPods 2 independently and using the cash toward your new AirPods Pro purchase. This guide walks you through every option, explains what your AirPods 2 are worth, and shows you the smartest path to your upgrade.

If you have been eyeing the AirPods Pro and wondering what to do with your trusty AirPods 2, you are not alone. Millions of people ask the same question every year as Apple releases newer earbuds with fancy features like noise cancellation and spatial audio. The good news? Getting from AirPods 2 to AirPods Pro is absolutely possible, and there are several routes to make it happen.

The trick is figuring out which path saves you the most money while giving you a smooth upgrade experience. Some folks want the convenience of walking into an Apple Store and walking out with shiny new AirPods Pro. Others prefer squeezing every last dollar out of their old pair. Either way, this guide will walk you through every option in plain English.

Think of it like trading in an old car. You can go straight to the dealership, sell it to a private buyer, or hand it over to a junkyard that recycles parts. Each option has its own pros and cons. The same goes for your AirPods 2. By the end of this article, you will know exactly which trade-in door to walk through.

Key Takeaways

• Apple Trade-In program: Apple does not accept AirPods 2 directly in most regions, but third-party partners like Phobio may offer trade-in credit depending on your location.
• Third-party buyback services: Sites like Decluttr, SellCell, and Back Market pay cash for working AirPods 2, often between $30 and $60 depending on condition.
• Apple’s “Recycling for Free” program: You can drop off AirPods 2 at any Apple Store for responsible recycling, but you will not receive credit toward new products.
• AirPods 2 trade-in value is limited: Without active noise cancellation or silicone tips, AirPods 2 lose value quickly compared to AirPods Pro.
• Better strategy: sell independently first: Many users get more money selling on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Swappa than going through trade-in programs.
• AppleCare+ replacements differ: If you have AppleCare+ for Headphones, you can pay a small replacement fee, but this does not apply to upgrading models.
• Holiday and seasonal promotions matter: Timing your upgrade during Black Friday, back-to-school, or Prime Day can save you up to $80 on AirPods Pro.

Understanding the Apple Trade-In Program for AirPods

Let’s start with the obvious question: can you walk into an Apple Store and swap your AirPods 2 for AirPods Pro using their trade-in program? The answer is a little complicated, and it depends on where you live.

How Apple’s AirPods Trade-In Program Works

Apple’s Trade-In program is built mainly for iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches. For AirPods, Apple has partnered with a third-party company called Phobio to handle trade-ins in some regions. When it works, the process is simple. You answer a few questions about the condition of your AirPods, get an instant estimated trade-in value, ship them to Apple for free, and receive an Apple Gift Card once they are verified.

Here’s the catch. Phobio’s AirPods trade-in option is not available everywhere. In many countries, Apple only accepts AirPods Max for trade-in, not the smaller AirPods models. This is frustrating if you hoped to do a clean swap at the Apple Store counter.

Why AirPods 2 Are Sometimes Excluded

AirPods 2 launched in March 2019, making them several generations old today. Trade-in programs typically prefer newer, working models because they hold more value on the resale market. Since AirPods 2 do not have active noise cancellation or silicone ear tips, they sit in a tricky spot. They are not old enough to be considered “broken” but not new enough to be high-value. Many trade-in programs simply skip them.

Did you know? Apple discontinued the AirPods 2 from its main lineup in September 2024, though they remain available in some markets as a budget option. This shift signals that Apple itself is steering customers toward newer models like AirPods 4 or AirPods Pro.

What Apple’s Recycling Program Offers Instead

If you cannot get cash credit, Apple still lets you recycle your AirPods 2 for free at any Apple Store. Just bring them in, drop them off, and Apple handles the rest. The materials get reused in new products. This is a great option if you do not want your old earbuds ending up in a landfill, but it does not put money in your pocket.

Step-by-Step: Turning In Your AirPods 2 for AirPods Pro

Even though Apple’s direct AirPods trade-in is limited, you can still pull off the upgrade in a way that feels like a trade-in. Here is the most common path people take.

Step 1: Check If Your AirPods 2 Are Eligible for Trade-In

Before doing anything, head to Apple’s Trade-In website and enter your AirPods 2 details. You will see questions like whether they power on, whether the case works, and whether the charging light functions. If your AirPods 2 are in good shape, you might get a small Apple Gift Card credit, typically between $0 and $25 depending on condition. Yes, that range is honestly that low. AirPods 2 just do not hold much trade-in value.

Step 2: Get an Instant Quote From a Third-Party Buyer

Since Apple’s quote will likely be tiny, your best bet is to compare offers from buyback sites. These platforms pay you cash via PayPal, Venmo, or check. Some popular options include:

• SellCell: Compares offers from multiple buyback companies so you get the highest price.
• Decluttr: Sends you a prepaid shipping label and pays quickly once your AirPods arrive.
• Back Market: Buys used tech and refurbishes it, often offering competitive prices.
• Swappa: A peer-to-peer marketplace for gadgets, usually yielding higher returns.

Most users report getting $30 to $60 for working AirPods 2 through these services. If you still have the charging case, original box, and a charging cable, you might squeeze out a bit more.

Step 3: Sell Locally or Online for Maximum Cash

If you want the most money possible, sell directly to another person. Platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist let you set your own price. Just be sure to describe the condition accurately and ship safely. Many buyers feel more confident buying from sellers with strong ratings and clear photos.

A simple analogy: selling through Apple Trade-In is like trading your old car to a dealership for store credit. Selling privately is like selling to a friend of a friend. You usually get more money privately, but it takes more effort. Choose the path that fits your schedule.

Step 4: Apply Your Earnings Toward AirPods Pro

Once your AirPods 2 sell, use the cash or gift card toward your AirPods Pro purchase. AirPods Pro (2nd generation) currently retail for $249 in the United States, while AirPods Pro 3 (if available in your region) may cost more. If you got $50 from selling your AirPods 2, you have just covered a chunk of that price tag.

Pro tip: wait for a sale if you can. Apple rarely discounts AirPods directly, but retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart frequently drop AirPods Pro prices by $40 to $80 during major sales events. Pairing a sale with your AirPods 2 earnings makes the upgrade very affordable.

Alternative Ways to Get AirPods Pro Without Trading In

Sometimes the smartest move is not trading in your AirPods 2 at all. Here are some alternative paths worth considering.

Option 1: Use the AirPods 2 as a Backup Pair

Many people keep their older AirPods as a backup set for the gym, travel, or work. AirPods 2 are perfectly functional for calls, podcasts, and music. You could buy AirPods Pro without giving up the AirPods 2. This works especially well if you got your AirPods 2 cheaply or if they still have battery life left.

Option 2: Gift Them to a Family Member

If your AirPods 2 still work but you want the upgrade anyway, consider gifting them to a parent, sibling, or friend. This is a thoughtful, no-cost option, and someone in your life may be thrilled to get free earbuds. Just remember to remove them from your Apple ID first by unpairing them in Settings.

Option 3: Trade In Through Your Carrier or Retailer

Some carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile occasionally run promotions that accept older AirPods as trade-ins when you buy a new device. Retailers like Best Buy and Target also have their own trade-in programs. Check their websites before committing, as their offers sometimes beat Apple’s.

Option 4: Take Advantage of Education Pricing

If you are a student, teacher, or parent buying for a student, Apple offers education discounts on AirPods Pro. You can save around $25 to $30 just for being affiliated with a school. Combined with selling your AirPods 2, the savings can really stack up.

What Your AirPods 2 Are Worth in 2025

The value of AirPods 2 has dropped steadily over time. Let us break down realistic numbers so you know what to expect.

Brand New Sealed AirPods 2

If you somehow still have a brand new, sealed AirPods 2 package, you might fetch $70 to $90. These are rare, though, since Apple no longer sells them directly. Most sellers in this category are clearing out old inventory.

Used AirPods 2 in Good Condition

AirPods 2 with a working charging case, decent battery, and no visible damage typically sell for $40 to $60. The Lightning charging case version is more common, while the wireless charging case version is rarer and might command slightly more.

AirPods 2 With Battery Issues

If your AirPods 2 only hold a charge for 30 minutes or less, expect $15 to $30 at best. Most buyers want earbuds that last at least 2 hours per bud.

Broken or Damaged AirPods 2

If one bud does not work, the case is cracked, or charging is unreliable, you are looking at $5 to $15, often only for parts. In this case, recycling might be a better use of your time.

Did you know? According to recent resale market data, the average AirPods 2 lost about 60 percent of its value within two years of release. This makes AirPods some of the fastest-depreciating consumer electronics on the market.

Why AirPods Pro Is Worth the Upgrade From AirPods 2

Beyond the financial side, let us talk about why you might want to make the jump in the first place. The difference between AirPods 2 and AirPods Pro is significant.

Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)

The biggest leap forward is active noise cancellation. AirPods 2 do not have it at all. AirPods Pro uses outward and inward-facing microphones to detect unwanted sound and cancel it with anti-noise. Imagine sitting in a coffee shop and pressing a button that instantly turns off the world. That is ANC.

Transparency Mode

AirPods Pro also lets you hear your surroundings when you need to, like ordering a coffee or crossing a busy street. You switch between ANC and Transparency with a simple squeeze on the stem.

Better Fit With Silicone Tips

AirPods 2 have a one-size-fits-all hard plastic design. AirPods Pro comes with four sizes of silicone tips so you can find the perfect seal. A good seal means better bass, clearer sound, and a more secure fit during workouts.

Adaptive Audio and Personalized Spatial Audio

Newer AirPods Pro models feature Adaptive Audio, which blends ANC and Transparency automatically based on your environment. They also support Personalized Spatial Audio, which creates a surround-sound effect tuned to the shape of your ears. AirPods 2 do none of this.

Water and Sweat Resistance

AirPods Pro carry an IPX4 rating, meaning they handle sweat and light rain. AirPods 2 have no official water resistance rating. If you exercise with your AirPods, this alone is worth the upgrade.

USB-C and Wireless Charging

The newest AirPods Pro models charge via USB-C or any Qi-certified wireless pad. AirPods 2 with the basic case only charge via Lightning. This small change matters if you already own other USB-C devices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Trading In AirPods 2

Before you commit to a trade-in or sale, watch out for these common pitfalls.

Forgetting to Unpair From Your Apple ID

Always unpair your AirPods 2 from your iPhone, iPad, and Mac before selling them. If you do not, the buyer may have trouble pairing them, and worse, your devices might keep looking for the old AirPods. To unpair, go to Settings, tap your AirPods, scroll down, and select “Forget This Device.”

Not Cleaning Them Before Selling

A quick clean makes a big difference in perceived value. Use a soft, dry cloth or a slightly damp cotton swab to remove earwax and grime from the speaker meshes and charging case. Buyers love shiny earbuds.

Choosing the First Offer You See

Do not accept the first trade-in or buyback quote without comparison shopping. Differences of $20 to $30 are common across services. Spend five minutes comparing offers on SellCell or BankMyCell to maximize your earnings.

Shipping Without Tracking

If you sell through eBay or a buyback site, always use tracked shipping. AirPods are small, valuable, and easy to lose in transit. A $5 insurance upgrade can save you from a nightmare if the package disappears.

Ignoring Battery Health

Battery health affects resale value more than cosmetic condition. If your AirPods 2 still hold a charge for 3 hours or more, mention that in your listing. If not, be honest about it. Transparency builds trust and often leads to smoother sales.

Final Thoughts: The Smartest Path to AirPods Pro

So, can you turn in your AirPods 2 to get AirPods Pro? Yes, but with realistic expectations. Apple’s official trade-in program offers minimal value for AirPods 2 in most regions, so the smarter move is often to sell your AirPods 2 through a buyback site or directly to another user. Use that cash toward an AirPods Pro purchase, ideally during a sale, and you will land a great pair of earbuds at a fair price.

Think of the upgrade like this: your AirPods 2 have done their job. They powered your workouts, commutes, and Zoom calls. Now it is time to pass them on and enjoy the next generation. With active noise cancellation, transparency mode, and a customizable fit, AirPods Pro is a meaningful upgrade that you will feel every single day.

Whether you recycle them, gift them, or sell them, do not let your AirPods 2 collect dust in a drawer. Their next chapter is just a trade-in or listing away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Apple’s Trade-In program accept AirPods 2?

Apple’s Trade-In program partners with Phobio to accept AirPods in select regions, but AirPods 2 quotes are usually very low. In many countries, Apple only accepts AirPods Max, not AirPods 2 or AirPods 3. Check Apple’s Trade-In site for your specific location to see if AirPods 2 are eligible.

How much can I get if I sell my AirPods 2 today?

Working AirPods 2 with a charging case typically sell for $30 to $60 through buyback sites like Decluttr, SellCell, or Back Market. Selling privately on eBay or Facebook Marketplace may yield $50 to $80 if you find the right buyer. Pricing depends heavily on condition, battery health, and whether you have the original box.

Can I trade in AirPods 2 at the Apple Store in person?

You can bring AirPods 2 to an Apple Store for free recycling, but in-store trade-in credit for AirPods 2 is rare. Most Apple Store staff will direct you to mail-in trade-in options through Apple’s website. Calling ahead or booking a Genius Bar slot can save you a wasted trip.

Will I get more money waiting for AirPods Pro to go on sale?

Yes, waiting for sales events like Black Friday, Prime Day, or back-to-school promotions typically saves you $40 to $80 on AirPods Pro. Apple itself rarely discounts AirPods, but third-party retailers almost always do. Combining sale pricing with your AirPods 2 trade-in value gives you the best overall deal.

What should I do before selling my AirPods 2?

Before selling, unpair your AirPods 2 from every Apple device linked to your Apple ID by going to Settings and selecting “Forget This Device.” Clean the earbuds and case gently, gather any accessories, and factory reset them. If you still have the original box and charging cable, include them to boost the resale value.

Is it worth upgrading from AirPods 2 to AirPods Pro?

Yes, if you value active noise cancellation, transparency mode, better fit, and water resistance. AirPods Pro offers dramatically improved sound quality and useful features that AirPods 2 simply cannot match. If you mainly use earbuds for casual podcast listening, the upgrade is less urgent, but most people find AirPods Pro worth every penny.