Can You Pre Order Airpods 2

Yes, you can pre order AirPods 2 directly from Apple and authorized retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart, both online and in-store. Apple typically opens pre orders within days of an official announcement, with delivery or in-store pickup available at launch. To get yours fastest, set up alerts, check multiple retailers, and act quickly once pre orders go live.

Key Takeaways

• Pre Order Availability: Apple and major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart offer AirPods 2 pre orders, usually days after an official announcement.
• Release Timing: AirPods 2 launched in March 2019, with pre orders opening shortly before the release date.
• Pricing: The AirPods 2 launched at $159 with a standard charging case and $199 with a wireless charging case.
• Best Pre Order Strategy: Set up alerts, check multiple retailers, and be ready to order immediately when pre orders open.
• Trade In Options: Apple offers trade-in credit toward AirPods 2, which can reduce the overall cost when pre ordering.
• Where to Buy: You can pre order from Apple’s website, Apple Store app, Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and carrier stores.
• Bundle Deals: Retailers often bundle AirPods 2 with accessories or offer small discounts during launch week.

Everything You Need to Know About Pre Ordering AirPods 2

Picture this: you wake up, grab your coffee, and see the news that Apple just announced the AirPods 2. Your heart races because you have been waiting months for this moment. But then a thought pops into your head, can you actually pre order AirPods 2 before they hit the shelves? The short answer is absolutely yes, and thousands of people do it every time Apple drops new gear.

Pre ordering is like reserving a seat at a concert before the doors open. You skip the long lines, avoid the “sold out” nightmare, and often get your product right on launch day (or even a day early in some cases). For a hot product like AirPods 2, this matters a lot because they tend to fly off the shelves faster than you can say “Hey Siri.”

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about pre ordering AirPods 2. You will learn who can pre order them, what options are available, where to do it, when to act, and why it is usually the smartest move. Plus, we will share tips and tricks that can save you money and help you get yours before everyone else.

Who Can Pre Order AirPods 2?

Pretty much anyone with an internet connection and a payment method can pre order AirPods 2. There is no special membership or secret handshake required. Apple welcomes pre orders from customers in countries where the AirPods 2 are officially sold. If you live in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, Germany, France, or dozens of other supported countries, you are good to go.

Age and Account Requirements

You do need to be at least 18 years old to make a purchase from Apple’s online store. If you are younger, a parent or guardian can place the order on your behalf. You will also need an Apple ID to pre order directly from Apple, which is free to create. Other retailers like Amazon or Best Buy let you check out as a guest, though creating an account speeds up the process.

International Buyers

Here is something cool: you can pre order AirPods 2 from Apple’s website even if you live in a country where they are not officially sold yet. Many international shoppers use freight forwarding services to ship AirPods to their home country. Just keep in mind that you may need to pay import duties or taxes, and warranty service might be limited outside Apple’s official regions.

Students and Educators

If you are a student, teacher, or faculty member, you can score an education discount on AirPods 2 through Apple’s Education Store. The discount is usually modest, but every dollar counts, right? You will need to verify your status through Apple’s partner, UNiDAYS, before the discount applies at checkout.

What Exactly Are the AirPods 2?

The AirPods 2 are the second generation of Apple’s wildly popular wireless earbuds. Think of them as the iPhone upgrade of headphones. They look almost identical to the original AirPods, but under the hood, they pack some serious upgrades.

The Big Improvements

The AirPods 2 feature the new H1 chip, which replaced the older W1 chip. This is like swapping a bicycle for a sports car. The H1 chip delivers:

• Faster connection times: Your AirPods pair with your devices about 1.5 times faster than the original.
• Better battery life for talk time: You get up to 3 hours of talk time on a single charge, compared to 2 hours with the original AirPods.
• Always-on “Hey Siri”: You can summon Siri with just your voice, no tapping required.
• Lower gaming latency: The H1 chip reduces audio lag by up to 30%, which is great for mobile gamers.

Two Charging Options

When you pre order AirPods 2, you get to pick between two charging cases:

• Standard Charging Case: This is the classic case that charges via Lightning cable. It costs $159.
• Wireless Charging Case: This version supports Qi-compatible wireless charging mats. It costs $199, just $40 more than the standard case.

Did You Know?

Apple sold over 60 million AirPods in 2019 alone, making them one of the best-selling accessories in tech history. The AirPods 2 played a huge role in that success, thanks to their improved features and the buzz around wireless charging.

Where Can You Pre Order AirPods 2?

You have plenty of options when it comes to pre ordering AirPods 2. Each retailer offers slightly different perks, so it pays to shop around before you commit.

Apple.com and the Apple Store App

Pre ordering directly from Apple is usually the safest bet. You get guaranteed authentic products, full warranty coverage, and the option to engrave your AirPods case for free (a fun touch for personalizing your gear). The Apple Store app often lets you pre order a few minutes before the website, which can be a lifesaver when stock is limited.

Amazon

Amazon is a go-to for many shoppers because of its fast shipping and competitive pricing. While Amazon does not always offer pre orders for Apple products directly, third-party sellers sometimes list them before launch. Just make sure you are buying from a reputable seller to avoid knockoffs.

Best Buy

Best Buy frequently matches Apple’s pre order dates and sometimes offers exclusive bundles. You can pre order online or through their app, and if you are a My Best Buy member, you might earn points toward future purchases. Best Buy also offers in-store pickup, which is perfect if you want to grab your AirPods on launch day without waiting for delivery.

Walmart and Target

Both Walmart and Target accept AirPods 2 pre orders online. Walmart is known for aggressive pricing, while Target often includes gift cards or small discounts with tech purchases. RedCard holders at Target get an extra 5% off, which can add up if you are buying other Apple gear.

Carrier Stores

If you are buying AirPods 2 through a carrier like Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile, you can sometimes bundle them with a new phone plan or add them to your existing account. Carriers often offer monthly installment plans, which can make the $159 price tag easier to swallow.

When Should You Pre Order AirPods 2?

Timing is everything when it comes to pre ordering hot products. Miss the window by an hour, and you might wait weeks for a restock.

The Pre Order Window

For the AirPods 2 launch in 2019, Apple opened pre orders on March 20 and shipped them starting March 26. That gave buyers a six-day window to lock in their order. In general, Apple opens pre orders within 3 to 7 days of an official announcement, so you have some time, but not much.

Best Time of Day

If you want the best shot at getting your AirPods on launch day, try to pre order as early as possible. Apple’s pre orders typically go live at 5:00 AM Pacific Time (8:00 AM Eastern). Set your alarm, brew some coffee, and be ready to hit “Buy” the moment they go live.

Did You Know?

According to a 2020 survey by Slice Intelligence, AirPods accounted for nearly 60% of the true wireless earbuds market in the United States. Pre ordering is often the only way to guarantee you get yours during launch week, especially for the wireless charging case version, which tends to sell out fastest.

What If You Miss Pre Orders?

Do not panic if you miss the initial pre order window. Apple and retailers often restock within a few weeks. You can also try checking Apple stores in person on launch day, though availability varies by location. Signing up for stock alerts on sites like NowInStock or Refurb.io can help you track when AirPods 2 are back in stock at your favorite retailers.

Why Should You Pre Order AirPods 2?

Pre ordering is not just for the super fans (though we love them too). There are real, practical reasons why pre ordering is often the smartest move.

Guaranteed Launch Day Delivery

Pre ordering ensures you get your AirPods 2 on launch day (or within a day or two) without having to compete with crowds at retail stores. For people with busy schedules, this is a game-changer. You can have your new earbuds delivered to your door while you are at work.

Avoid the Sellout Headache

Apple products have a habit of selling out quickly, especially in the first few weeks after launch. The AirPods 2 wireless charging case was notoriously hard to find in stores during the initial launch period. Pre ordering locks in your spot in line and saves you from endless “out of stock” notifications.

Better Bundles and Promotions

Retailers often sweeten the deal during the pre order period. You might find a free wireless charging pad bundled with your AirPods 2, or a small gift card to sweeten the pot. Some carriers also offer exclusive deals, like a $50 bill credit when you add AirPods to a new line.

Trade-In Savings

Apple’s trade-in program lets you swap your old AirPods (or other eligible devices) for credit toward your new AirPods 2. This is a great way to offset the cost. Pre ordering with a trade-in is simple: you ship your old device after placing your order, and Apple applies the credit to your purchase.

Financing Options

Many retailers, including Apple, offer financing through services like Apple Card Monthly Installments or Affirm. Pre ordering lets you lock in the price while spreading the cost over 6 to 12 months. For a $159 purchase, that breaks down to about $13 per month, which is cheaper than a typical streaming subscription.

How to Pre Order AirPods 2: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to pre order? Here is exactly how to do it, whether you are shopping at Apple, Amazon, or your favorite big-box store.

Step 1: Set Up Your Account in Advance

Do not wait until pre orders go live to create your account. Set up your Apple ID, Amazon account, or Best Buy profile ahead of time. Save your shipping address and payment info so you can check out in seconds, not minutes.

Step 2: Pick Your Charging Case

Decide whether you want the standard charging case ($159) or the wireless charging case ($199). The wireless case is a great pick if you already own a Qi charging mat for your phone, because you can use one charger for multiple devices.

Step 3: Enable Notifications

Turn on notifications for the Apple Store app, your favorite retailer’s app, and any stock alert services you use. This ensures you know the moment pre orders go live.

Step 4: Place Your Order Fast

When pre orders open, speed matters. Have your credit card handy, double-check your shipping address, and hit “Buy” as fast as you can. Apple and other retailers sometimes limit quantities during the first wave of pre orders, so do not hesitate.

Step 5: Confirm and Track

After you place your order, you will get a confirmation email with tracking info. Keep an eye on your delivery date, and if anything goes wrong, contact customer support right away. Most retailers are very accommodating when it comes to launch-day deliveries.

Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Pre Order Experience

Want to make sure your AirPods 2 pre order goes off without a hitch? Here are some insider tips.

Use Multiple Devices

If you are worried about website crashes or slow load times, try placing your order on multiple devices simultaneously. Open the Apple Store on your phone, tablet, and laptop. Whichever device checks out first wins.

Skip the Engraving

Engraving your AirPods case is a fun touch, but it can delay shipping by a day or two. If you want your AirPods on launch day, skip the engraving and add it later through a third-party service if you really want it.

Check for Promo Codes

Before you check out, do a quick search for promo codes. Sites like RetailMeNot and Honey often have working codes for Apple accessories, especially during launch week. Even a 5% discount can save you a few bucks.

Consider AppleCare+

AppleCare+ for Headphones costs $29 and extends your warranty to two years, plus covers up to two incidents of accidental damage. If you are clumsy (no judgment), this is worth considering at checkout.

Set Up Your AirPods Before Launch Day

Download the latest version of iOS on your iPhone and make sure your Apple ID is signed in. This way, when your AirPods arrive, you can pair them instantly and start using them right away.

What to Do If AirPods 2 Are Out of Stock

Even with the best planning, you might find AirPods 2 out of stock when you try to pre order. Here is how to handle it like a pro.

Join the Waitlist

Most retailers, including Apple, offer a waitlist or notify-you-when-available option. Sign up, and you will get an email the moment new stock arrives. This is usually the fastest way to get AirPods after the initial rush.

Check Third-Party Sellers

Authorized resellers on Amazon, eBay, and other marketplaces sometimes have stock when major retailers do not. Just make sure the seller has high ratings and good reviews to avoid scams.

Visit Physical Stores

If you are near an Apple Store, Best Buy, or Target, try visiting on launch day. Many stores receive launch-day shipments, and you might luck into a pair. Call ahead to confirm availability before you make the trip.

Consider Refurbished Options

Apple’s Certified Refurbished store often has AirPods 2 at a discount. They come with the same warranty as new AirPods, but cost 15% to 20% less. This is a great option if you do not mind saving money for a slightly used product.

The Bottom Line: Is Pre Ordering Worth It?

Absolutely. If you want AirPods 2 on launch day (or as close to it as possible), pre ordering is the way to go. You get guaranteed stock, fast delivery, and often access to exclusive bundles or discounts. Plus, you avoid the stress of fighting crowds or refreshing product pages hoping for a restock.

Just remember to plan ahead. Set up your accounts, pick your charging case, and have your payment info ready before pre orders open. With a little preparation, you will be jamming out to your favorite tunes on your brand-new AirPods 2 before you know it.

Whether you are a longtime Apple fan or a first-time buyer, the AirPods 2 are a solid upgrade that delivers on sound quality, convenience, and that signature Apple magic. So, can you pre order AirPods 2? Yes, and now you know exactly how to do it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you pre order AirPods 2 before they are released?

Yes, Apple and major retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target typically open AirPods 2 pre orders within a few days of the official announcement. Pre ordering ensures you get yours on launch day without waiting in line or risking a sellout.

How much do AirPods 2 cost to pre order?

The AirPods 2 with a standard charging case cost $159, while the version with a wireless charging case costs $199. Prices may vary slightly at third-party retailers, but Apple maintains consistent pricing across its own channels.

Where is the best place to pre order AirPods 2?

Apple’s website and Apple Store app are the most reliable options, offering guaranteed authentic products and full warranty coverage. Best Buy and Amazon are great alternatives, especially if you want fast shipping or potential bundle deals.

Do AirPods 2 pre orders ship on launch day?

In most cases, yes. Apple and major retailers aim to deliver pre orders on the official launch date, though delivery times can vary based on your location and the shipping method you choose at checkout.

Can I cancel my AirPods 2 pre order?

Yes, you can cancel a pre order as long as it has not shipped. Simply contact the retailer’s customer support or go to your account settings to cancel. Once the item ships, you will need to initiate a return instead.

Are there any discounts on AirPods 2 pre orders?

Apple rarely discounts AirPods 2 directly, but third-party retailers sometimes offer small markdowns or bundle deals. You can also save through Apple’s education store if you are a student or educator, or by trading in old devices for credit.