Can You Trade in Airpods Pro for Airpods Pro 2

Yes, you can trade in your AirPods Pro for AirPods Pro 2 through Apple’s Trade In program, but the actual cash value is surprisingly low, often just $0 to around $50 depending on condition and model. Many users find better value by selling their old AirPods on the secondary market. This guide explains exactly how the trade-in process works, what to expect in payment, and alternative ways to upgrade that might put more money in your pocket.

Picture this: you unbox your shiny new AirPods Pro 2, pop them in your ears, and that magical noise cancellation kicks in. The sound is crisper, the battery lasts longer, and you can finally hear the difference. But now you’ve got a drawer full of old AirPods Pro collecting dust, and you’re wondering if there’s a smart way to turn them into cash or credit toward your upgrade. You’re not alone. Millions of people upgrade their earbuds every few years, and figuring out what to do with the old ones is a real dilemma.

The good news? You absolutely can trade in AirPods Pro for AirPods Pro 2. Apple runs a dedicated Trade In program specifically for this purpose, and several other retailers offer similar deals. The not-so-good news? Apple’s trade-in values for AirPods are notoriously low, often leaving people wondering if it’s even worth the effort. Think of it like trading in a slightly used car, you get something, but probably not what you hoped.

That’s why this guide exists. We’re going to walk you through every single option, from Apple’s official program to third-party sales platforms, so you can make the smartest financial decision. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to get the most value out of your old AirPods Pro, whether that’s through trade-in credit, cash, or even donating them to someone who really needs them.

Key Takeaways

• Apple’s Trade In accepts AirPods Pro: You can directly trade in your old AirPods Pro when purchasing AirPods Pro 2 through Apple’s official program.
• Trade-in values are very low: Expect anywhere from $0 to $50, with non-working or older models often receiving no credit at all.
• Condition matters significantly: Charged, functional AirPods in good cosmetic condition get the highest payouts, usually around $40-$50.
• You get credit, not cash: Apple issues an Apple Store gift card or instant credit toward your new purchase, not actual money.
• Third-party sales often pay more: Selling on eBay, Swappa, or Facebook Marketplace can net you $80-$150+ depending on the model.
• Carrier and retailer programs exist: Best Buy, Amazon, and major carriers sometimes offer their own trade-in deals worth comparing.
• Timing affects value: Trading in shortly after AirPods Pro 2 launch usually yields the best returns before the market saturates.

How Does Apple’s AirPods Trade In Program Actually Work?

Apple’s Trade In program is designed to be as simple as possible, which is great for convenience but not always great for your wallet. Think of it like a fast-food drive-through: quick and easy, but you’re not getting a gourmet meal. Here’s the step-by-step breakdown of how the process works when you want to trade in AirPods Pro for AirPods Pro 2.

Starting the Trade-In Process

First, you need to visit Apple’s Trade In website or initiate the process during checkout when buying your new AirPods Pro 2. You’ll answer a few questions about your current AirPods, including the model, condition, and whether you have the charging case. Apple uses this information to generate an instant estimated trade-in value.

The questionnaire typically asks whether your AirPods power on, hold a charge, have visible damage, and whether the case works properly. Be honest here, because Apple inspects the devices when they arrive. If the condition doesn’t match what you described, they’ll revise the value downward, and you’ll have limited options to dispute it.

What AirPods Models Qualify?

Apple accepts a wide range of AirPods models for trade-in, including:

• AirPods (1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation)
• AirPods Pro (1st generation)
• AirPods Pro (2nd generation)
• AirPods Max

The first-generation AirPods Pro that you’re looking to trade in definitely qualifies. Apple wants your old devices because they can refurbish and resell them, harvest parts, or recycle the materials responsibly.

Receiving Your Credit

Once you accept the trade-in estimate, Apple sends you a prepaid shipping label and packaging. You mail your old AirPods to Apple, where they’re inspected. If everything checks out, you receive an Apple Store gift card or instant credit applied to your original purchase.

This last point is crucial: you get credit, not cash. If you trade in during the initial AirPods Pro 2 purchase, the credit applies immediately. If you trade in separately, you’ll get a gift card via email within a few days of inspection.

How Much Will You Get for Trading In AirPods Pro?

Here’s where many people experience sticker shock. The trade-in values for AirPods are genuinely low compared to what you might expect. Let’s break down the actual numbers so you know what you’re walking into.

Current Trade-In Values Explained

As of recent Apple Trade In estimates, here’s what you can generally expect for working AirPods Pro (1st generation):

• Good condition, fully functional: Around $40-$50 in credit
• Fair condition with minor issues: Around $20-$30 in credit
• Not working or damaged: $0 credit, though Apple will still recycle them for free

Did You Know? Apple has quietly reduced AirPods trade-in values over the years. When AirPods Pro 2 first launched, the original AirPods Pro had estimated values closer to $75-$85. Today, those values have dropped significantly, partly because the resale market is flooded with used AirPods and partly because the technology has aged.

Why Are the Values So Low?

Several factors contribute to the disappointing trade-in amounts. First, AirPods are small, relatively inexpensive items compared to iPhones or MacBooks, so there’s less room for depreciation math to work in your favor. Second, the used AirPods market is saturated. Everyone has old wireless earbuds lying around, which drives prices down across the board.

Third, Apple needs to refurbish or resell these devices, and the cost of doing that eats into the value they can offer you. Think of it like a car dealership: they need enough margin to clean, certify, and resell your trade-in while still making a profit. The same principle applies here.

Alternative Ways to Trade or Sell Your AirPods Pro

If Apple’s trade-in values feel insulting, you’re not wrong to look elsewhere. Several third-party platforms and methods can net you significantly more money for your old AirPods Pro. Let’s explore the best alternatives.

Selling on Third-Party Marketplaces

Platforms like eBay, Swappa, Facebook Marketplace, and Mercari are popular destinations for selling used electronics. The trade-off is that you have to do more work, listing items, shipping, and dealing with buyers, but the financial reward is usually worth it.

Current market rates for used AirPods Pro (1st generation) typically look like this:

• Like new with original packaging: $80-$120
• Good condition with minor wear: $60-$90
• Fair condition, fully working: $40-$65
• For parts or not working: $20-$40

That’s often two to three times more than Apple’s trade-in offer. The catch? You need to handle the listing, negotiate with potential buyers, package the items securely, and ship them out. It’s a weekend project that could pay for itself many times over.

Best Buy’s Trade-In Program

Best Buy runs a competitive trade-in program that sometimes offers better rates than Apple, especially during promotional periods. You can get an instant quote online and either ship your AirPods or drop them off at a local store. Best Buy issues gift cards that work for any purchase, not just electronics, which adds flexibility.

The values are similar to Apple’s, occasionally slightly higher, but the in-store option means you can walk out with a gift card in hand the same day. No waiting for shipping, no wondering whether your device passed inspection.

Amazon Trade-In

Amazon’s trade-in program accepts AirPods and offers Amazon gift cards in return. The values fluctuate based on demand, and Amazon occasionally runs promotions that boost trade-in amounts. If you’re a frequent Amazon shopper, getting credit for your AirPods Pro and applying it toward your AirPods Pro 2 purchase (along with everything else you buy) can be convenient.

Carrier and Retailer Promotions

Sometimes, mobile carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile run promotions that include AirPods with new phone purchases or plan upgrades. If you’re already planning to upgrade your phone, bundling AirPods Pro 2 into that deal might yield better overall value than trading in your old AirPods separately.

Step-by-Step Guide to Trading In Your AirPods Pro

Ready to actually make the trade? Here’s a practical walkthrough covering both Apple’s official program and the most popular alternative methods.

Preparing Your AirPods for Trade-In

Before you trade in or sell, take a few minutes to prepare. This small effort can mean the difference between getting $50 and $0.

• Clean them thoroughly: Wipe down the AirPods and case with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Remove any earwax or debris from the speaker grilles using a dry, soft-bristled brush.
• Charge them fully: Make sure both the AirPods and the case are charged to 100% before shipping or handing them over.
• Include original accessories: The charging case, Lightning or USB-C cable, and any original documentation increase value. Even the original box matters for private sales.
• Reset and unpair: Go to your iPhone’s Bluetooth settings, forget the device, and reset the AirPods to factory settings. This protects your personal data.
• Check for damage: Be honest about any scratches, dents, or functional issues. Trying to hide problems usually backfires during inspection.

Trading In Through Apple

Here’s exactly what to do if you decide Apple’s program is your best bet, perhaps because of convenience or because you’re applying credit immediately to your AirPods Pro 2 purchase.

1. Visit apple.com/shop/trade-in or start the process during AirPods Pro 2 checkout
2. Select “AirPods” from the device menu and choose your model
3. Answer the condition questions honestly
4. Review your estimated trade-in value
5. Complete your AirPods Pro 2 purchase with the credit applied
6. Receive a prepaid shipping kit via email within a few days
7. Package your old AirPods and ship them back
8. Wait for confirmation and your final Apple gift card (if credit wasn’t applied at purchase)

The entire process typically takes 2-3 weeks from start to finish. If you applied credit at purchase, you’ll see an estimated credit immediately, but Apple may adjust it after inspection if the condition differs from what you reported.

Selling Privately for Maximum Value

If maximizing your return is the priority, selling privately is the way to go. Here’s a streamlined approach:

1. Take clear, well-lit photos of the AirPods, case, and any accessories from multiple angles
2. Write an honest description including the model, purchase date, condition, and what’s included
3. List on your preferred platform with competitive pricing (check current sold listings for reference)
4. Respond to inquiries promptly and professionally
5. Ship within 24-48 hours of payment using tracked, insured shipping
6. Leave feedback for the buyer and request the same in return

Pro tip: Ship the AirPods in a small padded box rather than an envelope. Buyers appreciate the care, and you’re less likely to have items damaged in transit, which protects you from disputes and bad reviews.

Things to Consider Before Trading In

Before you commit to any trade-in or sale, it’s worth thinking through a few important factors that could affect your decision.

Data Privacy and Security

Your AirPods don’t store personal data the way an iPhone does, but they’re still paired to your Apple ID and potentially connected to your devices. Always unpair and reset your AirPods before trading them in. To do this, put the AirPods in their case, hold the setup button on the back for about 15 seconds until the status light flashes amber and then white.

This factory reset removes the pairing information and ensures the new owner starts with a clean slate. It’s a simple step, but skipping it could mean someone else has a slightly easier time accessing your device network, which is a minor security concern.

Timing Your Trade-In

Like most consumer electronics, AirPods hold their value best when they’re relatively new and demand is high. The optimal time to sell or trade in your original AirPods Pro is usually within the first 3-6 months after AirPods Pro 2 launch, when the upgrade cycle is in full swing and buyers are actively seeking deals.

Wait too long, and the market floods with used units, driving prices down. The AirPods Pro 1st generation launched in October 2019, and AirPods Pro 2 launched in September 2022. By now, the market is well established, so the prices are stable but not spiking.

Environmental Considerations

Did You Know? Apple has committed to being carbon neutral across its entire supply chain by 2030, and trade-in programs play a role in that mission. When you trade in old AirPods, Apple either refurbishes them for resale, harvests functional components, or recycles the materials including rare earth elements used in the magnets and circuits.

Even if you don’t get much money, trading in or properly recycling your old AirPods is better for the environment than tossing them in a drawer or, worse, the trash. Electronic waste is a serious global issue, and every device that gets properly recycled makes a small difference.

Comparing Your Options: A Quick Decision Framework

With so many options, it helps to have a simple framework for deciding what’s best for your situation. Let’s break it down by your priorities.

If Convenience Is Your Top Priority

Go with Apple’s Trade In program. You can handle everything during checkout, ship your old AirPods with a prepaid label, and never have to deal with strangers or negotiate prices. The trade-off is lower value, but your time is worth something too.

If Maximum Value Is Your Goal

Sell privately on eBay, Swappa, or Facebook Marketplace. You’ll put in more effort, but you could double or triple what Apple offers. This is the best option for AirPods in good condition with original packaging and accessories.

If You Want a Middle Ground

Try Best Buy or Amazon’s trade-in programs. You get gift cards that are as good as cash (if you shop at those retailers), the process is straightforward, and values are sometimes slightly better than Apple’s. The in-store option at Best Buy is particularly convenient.

If Your AirPods Aren’t Working

Apple’s trade-in will accept them for free recycling, which is environmentally responsible. For broken AirPods, private sales usually aren’t worth the hassle, though you might find a buyer on eBay looking for parts to repair their own units.

Frequently Asked Questions About AirPods Pro Trade-In

Let’s wrap up with answers to the most common questions people have when considering this trade. These cover edge cases and details that might affect your specific situation.

Do I need to trade in during the initial AirPods Pro 2 purchase?

No, you can trade in your AirPods Pro separately at any time through Apple’s Trade In website. However, applying credit during your AirPods Pro 2 purchase is more convenient and means you don’t have to wait for a gift card to arrive later.

What if my AirPods Pro case is missing or broken?

You can still trade in AirPods without a case, but the value drops significantly, often to around $20-$30 instead of $40-$50. If the case is broken but the AirPods themselves work, Apple may still accept them, though again at a reduced rate. For private sales, missing or broken cases hurt resale value considerably.

Can I trade in AirPods that aren’t mine?

Officially, Apple’s Trade In program expects you to own the device you’re trading in. Practically, the program doesn’t verify ownership beyond basic functionality checks. However, if you’re trading in AirPods you purchased second-hand or received as a gift, you should still reset them before trading them in.

How long does the Apple trade-in process take?

From the time you ship your AirPods to receiving your final credit or gift card, the process typically takes 7-14 business days. Inspection usually happens within a week of receipt, and gift cards are issued via email shortly after.

Can I trade in AirPods at an Apple Store in person?

Apple’s in-store trade-in options for AirPods vary by location. Some Apple Stores accept AirPods trade-ins at the Genius Bar or during checkout, but many have shifted toward online-only trade-in for smaller devices. It’s worth calling your local store ahead of time to confirm.

Are there any fees for trading in?

No, Apple doesn’t charge fees for trading in AirPods. Shipping is free via the prepaid label, and there’s no cost for inspection or processing. The only “fee” is the difference between the trade-in value and what you might get selling privately.

Final Thoughts: Making the Smart Trade-In Decision

Trading in your AirPods Pro for AirPods Pro 2 is absolutely possible, and Apple makes the process straightforward if convenience is what you value most. The key takeaway is to set realistic expectations about the financial return. Apple isn’t going to give you anywhere close to what you originally paid, and that’s okay. The program is designed to be a small incentive, not a cash-out opportunity.

If you’re someone who values time over money, Apple’s Trade In program is a perfectly reasonable choice. You handle everything in one transaction, ship your old AirPods with a prepaid label, and move on with your life. The $40-$50 in credit might cover a nice case, AppleCare, or a few months of Apple Music.

On the other hand, if you’re willing to invest an afternoon in creating a listing, snapping photos, and shipping your old AirPods to a stranger, you can realistically double or even triple that amount. The extra effort pays for itself many times over, especially if you have the original box, charging cable, and documentation.

Whatever you decide, don’t let your old AirPods Pro sit in a drawer forever. They have value, whether that’s as trade-in credit, cash in your pocket, or a recycled device that keeps electronic waste out of landfills. Take a few minutes today to assess their condition, choose the option that fits your priorities, and turn those old earbuds into something useful. Your future self (and maybe your wallet) will thank you.