Can I Trade My Airpods 2 for Airpods Pro

Yes, you can trade in your AirPods 2 for AirPods Pro through Apple’s official Trade In program, though the trade-in value is typically modest, ranging from $0 to $50 depending on condition. You can also sell your AirPods 2 independently on platforms like Swappa, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace to maximize your return, then apply that money toward a new AirPods Pro purchase. For the best value, combining a third-party sale with an AirPods Pro trade-in deal at a retailer often yields the most savings.

So, you’ve been eyeing those shiny new AirPods Pro, but your old AirPods 2 are sitting in a drawer somewhere. The big question on your mind is simple: can I trade my AirPods 2 for AirPods Pro? The short answer is yes, but the long answer is a bit more interesting. There are several ways to make this swap happen, and some will leave you with more money in your pocket than others.

Think of your AirPods 2 like a used car. You can trade it in to a dealer for convenience, or you can sell it yourself for more cash. The same idea applies here. Apple’s Trade In program is like the dealership—quick and easy, but the offer might not be jaw-dropping. Selling on your own is like putting up a “For Sale” sign in your yard—more effort, but potentially more profit.

Whether you’re after Active Noise Cancellation, better sound, or just want the latest and greatest, this guide will walk you through every option. We’ll cover Apple’s official trade-in, third-party selling platforms, retailer alternatives, and how to get the most bang for your buck. Let’s dive in and figure out the smartest way to upgrade your listening game.

Key Takeaways

• Apple’s Trade In Program Accepts AirPods 2: Apple will take your AirPods 2 as a trade-in, but the value is relatively low, typically between $0 and $50 based on condition and model.
• Selling Privately Yields More Money: Listing your AirPods 2 on resale platforms like Swappa, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace can earn you $40 to $80, which is often more than Apple’s trade-in offer.
• AirPods Pro 2 Offers Major Upgrades: The jump from AirPods 2 to AirPods Pro includes Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency Mode, better sound quality, and a customizable fit with silicone tips.
• You Don’t Necessarily Need to Trade In: Apple allows you to buy new AirPods Pro directly, and you can keep, sell, or gift your old AirPods 2 however you choose.
• Trade-In Process Is Simple: Apple’s online trade-in involves a quick questionnaire, instant quote, and either an Apple gift card or instant credit toward your new purchase.
• Best Strategy Is Combining Methods: Sell your AirPods 2 independently for top dollar, then wait for a deal on AirPods Pro or use a retailer trade-in promotion.
• Carrier and Retailer Alternatives Exist: Stores like Best Buy, Target, and Amazon sometimes offer trade-in deals that can compete with or beat Apple’s program.

Understanding the AirPods 2 to AirPods Pro Upgrade Path

Before we get into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Why would someone want to trade AirPods 2 for AirPods Pro in the first place? The answer comes down to features and value. The AirPods Pro line offers a significant leap in technology compared to the standard AirPods 2.

What Makes AirPods Pro Different from AirPods 2

The AirPods 2, released in March 2019, are solid wireless earbuds, but they lack some key features that have since become standard. The AirPods Pro (and especially the AirPods Pro 2) bring Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), Transparency Mode, and a customizable in-ear fit with silicone tips. These aren’t just minor upgrades—they fundamentally change how you experience audio.

Active Noise Cancellation uses tiny microphones to detect outside sounds and create anti-noise to cancel them out. Imagine being on a noisy airplane. With AirPods 2, you’d hear the engine drone. With AirPods Pro, that drone fades into silence. Transparency Mode does the opposite—it lets outside sound in so you can hear announcements or have a quick conversation without removing your earbuds.

Did You Know? According to Apple’s environmental reports, over 70% of the aluminum in AirPods Pro casings comes from recycled sources. Trading in your old devices helps keep that cycle going.

Why the Trade-In Question Matters

AirPods aren’t cheap. A new pair of AirPods Pro 2 retails for $249. If you’re upgrading from AirPods 2, you already know the value of quality audio. Getting credit for your old pair—whether through trade-in or private sale—can knock a meaningful chunk off that price.

For example, if Apple offers you $30 in trade-in credit and you score a $249 pair of AirPods Pro, your out-of-pocket cost drops to $219. Sell the AirPods 2 privately for $60, and you’re paying $189. The method you choose makes a real difference.

Apple’s Official AirPods Trade In Program

Let’s start with the most straightforward option: Apple’s own Trade In program. It’s the easiest route for most people because you can do it all online without shipping anything (in many cases) or with a prepaid shipping label.

How Apple’s Trade In Works for AirPods

Apple’s process is designed to be as painless as possible. You start by visiting the Apple Trade In page and selecting “AirPods” as your device. From there, you’ll answer a few questions about your AirPods 2:

• Model: Are they AirPods 2 with a standard charging case or a wireless charging case?
• Condition: Are they working properly? Any physical damage?
• Power on and connect: Do they power on and pair with your devices?
• Are all parts present: Do you have both earbuds, the case, and any accessories?

Based on your answers, Apple generates an instant trade-in value. This value is typically between $0 and $50 for AirPods 2, depending on the answers you provide. AirPods 2 with a wireless charging case in excellent condition might fetch up to $50, while damaged or non-working pairs might get nothing.

How You Get Paid for the Trade-In

Once you accept the trade-in offer, you have two options. First, you can get an Apple Gift Card. The amount is applied to your Apple ID balance, and you can use it for anything Apple sells, including AirPods Pro. Second, you can apply the credit instantly toward a new purchase. This second option is usually the smartest move if you’re planning to buy AirPods Pro right away.

Here’s the step-by-step process:

1. Visit apple.com/shop/trade-in and select AirPods
2. Answer the condition questions honestly
3. Get your instant quote
4. Choose to apply credit to a new AirPods Pro purchase or receive an Apple Gift Card
5. If applying to a new purchase, your discount is applied at checkout
6. Ship your AirPods 2 to Apple using the prepaid shipping label (or drop them off at an Apple Store)

Important Note: Apple inspects the device after receiving it. If the condition doesn’t match what you described, they’ll revise the offer, and you can either accept the new value or have your AirPods returned to you.

Apple Store Trade-In: The In-Person Option

If you prefer face-to-face transactions, you can also trade in your AirPods 2 at any Apple Store. Just bring them in, and a Specialist will assess their condition and offer you trade-in credit. This is a great option if you want to walk out with new AirPods Pro the same day. The specialist can apply your credit instantly to the purchase.

One thing to keep in mind: Apple Store availability can vary, and trade-in values are the same online and in-store. So don’t expect a higher offer just because you’re there in person. The advantage is convenience and instant gratification.

Selling AirPods 2 Privately for More Money

If getting the most money matters more than convenience, selling your AirPods 2 on your own is the way to go. You’ll typically get more than Apple’s trade-in offer, especially if your AirPods are in good condition with the original case.

Best Platforms to Sell AirPods 2

There are several popular marketplaces where you can list your AirPods 2. Each has its own pros and cons:

Swappa: This platform is specifically designed for selling tech gadgets. It has strict listing requirements, which means buyers trust the listings more. You can typically list AirPods 2 for $50 to $80, depending on condition. Swappa also handles the payment process, which adds a layer of security for both parties.

eBay: eBay is a giant marketplace with millions of buyers. You can list your AirPods 2 as an auction or “Buy It Now” listing. Auction prices for used AirPods 2 typically range from $40 to $70. The downside is eBay takes a cut of your sale (around 13% on most transactions), so factor that into your pricing.

Facebook Marketplace: If you want to avoid fees entirely, Facebook Marketplace lets you list locally and keep 100% of the sale. The tradeoff is you’ll likely need to meet someone in person to complete the transaction, which can be inconvenient or feel unsafe depending on your area.

Craigslist: Similar to Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist is local-only with no fees. However, the platform has become less popular in recent years, and scams are common. Use caution if you go this route.

Did You Know? According to a 2023 report by Statista, the global market for refurbished electronics is expected to reach $77 billion by 2030. That means there’s strong demand for pre-owned devices like AirPods 2, which works in your favor as a seller.

How to Write a Great AirPods 2 Listing

To sell quickly and for top dollar, your listing needs to stand out. Here are some tips:

• Be honest about condition: Scratches, scuffs, and battery health all matter to buyers. Disclose everything upfront.
• Take clear photos: Photograph the earbuds, case, and any accessories in good lighting. Show any imperfections.
• Include the original box and accessories: Having the original packaging and Lightning cable can increase the value by $10 or more.
• Mention the model number: Buyers often search by model number, so include it in your listing.
• Clean them before listing: Wipe down the earbuds and case to make them look well-maintained.

Safety Tips for Private Sales

If you decide to meet a buyer in person, take some basic precautions:

• Meet in a public place during daylight hours
• Bring a friend if possible
• Use a payment method you trust (cash, PayPal, Venmo)
• Don’t share personal information like your home address
• Consider meeting near a police station for extra safety

For online sales, use platforms that offer buyer and seller protection. Swappa, eBay, and PayPal Goods and Services all provide some level of fraud protection.

Retailer Trade-In Alternatives: Best Buy, Target, and More

Apple isn’t the only game in town. Several major retailers accept AirPods trade-ins, and sometimes their offers can be more competitive than Apple’s.

Best Buy’s Trade-In Program

Best Buy accepts AirPods 2 as trade-ins, though the value depends on condition. Typically, you can expect around $20 to $40 for AirPods 2 in good working order. The benefit of trading in at Best Buy is that you can apply the credit immediately toward a new AirPods Pro purchase, and Best Buy often runs promotions on AirPods that can stack with your trade-in credit.

Best Buy’s process is similar to Apple’s. You can get a quote online, ship the device, and receive a Best Buy gift card. Or, you can visit a store and have the trade-in assessed in person.

Target’s Trade-In Program

Target partners with a service called Decluttr to handle trade-ins. Through Decluttr, you can get an instant quote for your AirPods 2, ship them for free, and receive a Target gift card or cash via PayPal. Trade-in values through Decluttr for AirPods 2 typically range from $10 to $35.

What makes Target’s program appealing is the frequent Target Circle deals and RedCard discounts. If you’re already planning to buy AirPods Pro at Target, you can combine your trade-in credit with a 5% RedCard discount and any current sales for maximum savings.

Amazon Trade-In

Amazon also accepts AirPods trade-ins, offering an Amazon Gift Card in return. The value is similar to other retailers, usually between $20 and $40 for working AirPods 2. Amazon’s trade-in process is simple: get a quote, ship the device, and get credit once it’s received and inspected.

The advantage of Amazon is the gift card can be used for anything on the platform, not just electronics. So if you don’t want to spend it on AirPods Pro, you have flexibility.

Carrier and Wireless Provider Options

Some mobile carriers, like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, occasionally offer trade-in deals that include AirPods. These aren’t always available, but when they are, they can provide excellent value. For example, Verizon sometimes runs promotions where trading in old devices (including AirPods) can get you significant discounts on new tech purchases.

Check your carrier’s website or visit a local store to see if any AirPods trade-in promotions are currently running.

Comparing AirPods 2 Trade-In Values Across Options

Let’s break down the typical trade-in values you can expect from each option, assuming your AirPods 2 are in good working condition with no major damage:

Apple Trade-In Value

Apple typically offers $25 to $50 for AirPods 2 in good condition. The exact amount depends on whether you have the standard or wireless charging case, and the overall cosmetic condition.

Best Buy Trade-In Value

Best Buy generally offers $20 to $40 for AirPods 2. The value can fluctuate based on current promotions and demand.

Private Sale Value (Swappa, eBay, Facebook)

Private sales typically yield the highest returns: $50 to $80 for AirPods 2 in good condition. The exact price depends on the platform, your listing quality, and local demand.

Amazon Trade-In Value

Amazon offers $20 to $40 for AirPods 2, similar to Best Buy. The value comes in the form of an Amazon Gift Card.

Bottom Line: If maximizing your return is the goal, selling privately is usually your best bet. If convenience matters most, Apple’s program is hard to beat. And if you want a middle ground, retailer trade-ins like Best Buy offer reasonable values with the ability to apply credit immediately.

Step-by-Step: The Best Strategy for Trading AirPods 2 for AirPods Pro

Now that you know your options, here’s the most efficient strategy to upgrade from AirPods 2 to AirPods Pro while keeping as much money in your pocket as possible.

Step 1: Assess Your AirPods 2 Condition

Before doing anything, honestly evaluate your AirPods 2. Are they in good working order? Any physical damage? Do you have the original case and accessories? The better the condition, the more options you’ll have. If your AirPods 2 are broken or have severe battery issues, you might be limited to a $0 to $10 trade-in offer, or a parts sale on eBay.

Step 2: Get Quotes from Multiple Sources

Don’t just accept the first offer. Spend 10 minutes getting quotes from Apple, Best Buy, Target/Decluttr, and Amazon. Jot down the values so you can compare. Also, check Swappa and eBay for current asking prices on similar AirPods 2 models. This gives you a baseline for what a private sale might fetch.

Step 3: Decide Between Trade-In and Private Sale

If the highest trade-in offer is close to what you’d get from a private sale (within $10 to $15), trade-in might be worth the convenience. If there’s a significant gap, selling privately is the smarter financial move. Also, consider how quickly you want to upgrade. Private sales can take a few days to a few weeks, while trade-in credit is available immediately when applied to a new purchase.

Step 4: Time Your AirPods Pro Purchase

Don’t rush into buying AirPods Pro at full price. Several times a year, retailers offer discounts on AirPods Pro. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Amazon Prime Day, and back-to-school season are common times for deals. You can often find AirPods Pro 2 for $179 to $199 during these sales, compared to the $249 retail price.

Apple’s education store also offers year-round discounts for college students, teachers, and staff. If you qualify, you can save $10 to $25 on AirPods Pro.

Step 5: Complete the Trade or Sale

Once you’ve decided on your path, execute the plan. If trading in, follow the steps to get your credit and apply it to your AirPods Pro purchase. If selling privately, list your AirPods 2 and wait for a buyer. To avoid any gap in your listening experience, consider this approach: buy the AirPods Pro first (if you have the funds), sell your AirPods 2 second, and use the proceeds to recoup part of your cost.

What to Do If Your AirPods 2 Aren’t Worth Trading In

Sometimes, trade-in offers are disappointing, especially for older or damaged devices. If your AirPods 2 are worth $0 to $15, trading them in might not be worth the hassle. Here are some alternatives:

Keep Them as Backup

AirPods 2 can serve as reliable backup earbuds. Keep them in a drawer for times when your AirPods Pro are charging, lost, or out of commission. Having a second pair is always handy.

Gift Them

If your AirPods 2 still work, consider gifting them to a friend or family member. Even $30 worth of used AirPods can be a meaningful gift for someone who doesn’t have wireless earbuds yet.

Donate Them

Organizations like the Wireless Foundation and local schools accept used electronics for those in need. Donating your AirPods 2 puts them to good use and may even qualify you for a tax deduction.

Recycle Them Through Apple

If your AirPods 2 are truly worthless, Apple will recycle them for free through its recycling program. This ensures the materials are recovered responsibly rather than ending up in a landfill.

Did You Know? Apple’s recycling program, Daisy, can disassemble 1.2 million devices per year, recovering valuable materials like cobalt, tungsten, and rare earth elements. Trading in or recycling your old AirPods helps support this initiative.

Common Questions About AirPods 2 Trade-Ins

Before we wrap up, let’s address some common concerns people have when trading in AirPods 2.

Do I Need to Include the Original Case?

Yes, having the original case significantly increases the trade-in value. AirPods without their case are worth much less, as they can’t charge or pair properly. If you’ve lost your case, your options are limited to selling the earbuds as parts.

What If My AirPods 2 Have Battery Issues?

Battery degradation is normal after years of use. Most trade-in programs will still accept AirPods with reduced battery life, but the value might be lower. Apple typically requires the AirPods to “power on and connect,” but doesn’t measure battery health precisely.

Can I Trade In AirPods I Received as a Gift?

Yes, you can trade in AirPods 2 even if they were a gift. The trade-in process doesn’t require proof of purchase or original receipt. As long as the device is yours to give up, you can trade it in.

Is It Better to Trade In or Sell for Parts?

If your AirPods 2 are damaged beyond normal use, you can sell them for parts. On eBay, individual AirPods 2 earbuds or cases can fetch $10 to $20 each. For someone who lost an earbud, your damaged pair could still have value.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Upgrade

Trading in your AirPods 2 for AirPods Pro is absolutely possible, and there are multiple paths to get there. The best option depends on your priorities. If you value convenience, Apple’s Trade In program is the simplest route. If you want to maximize your return, selling privately on Swappa or eBay will net you the most money. And if you want a middle ground, retailer trade-ins through Best Buy, Target, or Amazon offer reasonable values with ease.

Remember, you don’t have to trade in your AirPods 2 at all. You can buy AirPods Pro directly, then sell or gift your old pair on your own terms. This gives you full control over the process and the timeline.

Whatever you choose, upgrading from AirPods 2 to AirPods Pro is a worthwhile investment. The Active Noise Cancellation alone is a game-changer for anyone who uses earbuds in noisy environments. Add in the better sound quality, customizable fit, and Transparency Mode, and you’ve got a significant upgrade.

Take your time, compare your options, and pick the path that makes the most sense for your budget and lifestyle. With the right approach, you can upgrade to AirPods Pro while keeping your wallet relatively happy. Happy listening!