Do Airpods Go on Sale During Black Friday

Yes, AirPods go on sale during Black Friday every year, with discounts ranging from $20 to $80 off depending on the model. Major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and Target offer significant price cuts on AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max. The best deals typically appear the week before Black Friday and run through Cyber Monday, making it the prime time to score big savings on Apple’s popular wireless earbuds.

If you’ve been eyeing a pair of AirPods, you’re probably wondering whether Black Friday is the right time to buy them. The short answer? Absolutely yes. Black Friday is hands down one of the best times of year to grab AirPods at a discount, and the savings can be substantial if you know where to look.

Every year, AirPods consistently rank among the top-selling tech products during the Black Friday shopping event. In 2023, AirPods were the second best-selling item on Black Friday according to Salesforce data, with shoppers spending over $200 million on Apple products during the holiday weekend. That kind of demand means retailers compete fiercely for your dollar, which translates to better prices for you.

Whether you’re after the standard AirPods, the noise-canceling AirPods Pro, or the premium AirPods Max over-ear headphones, Black Friday delivers deals across the entire AirPods lineup. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to score the best AirPods deal this Black Friday.

Key Takeaways

• AirPods Are Discounted Every Black Friday: Apple products, including AirPods, consistently see price drops of 10-25% during Black Friday sales events.
• Best Retailers for Deals: Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and Costco typically offer the deepest AirPods discounts.
• Pro and Max Models See Bigger Savings: AirPods Pro and AirPods Max often have larger dollar-amount discounts than standard AirPods.
• Timing Matters: The best deals often drop a week before Black Friday and extend through Cyber Monday.
• Watch for Bundles: Retailers frequently bundle AirPods with Apple Music, Apple TV+, or gift cards for extra value.
• Older Models Get Steepest Cuts: When new AirPods launch, previous generations see the biggest Black Friday discounts.
• Apple Itself Rarely Discounts: The Apple Store typically doesn’t offer Black Friday deals, but authorized retailers do.

How Much Do AirPods Typically Drop in Price on Black Friday?

The discount you can expect depends on which AirPods model you’re after. Generally speaking, the more expensive the AirPods, the more money you can save in absolute terms. Think of it like buying a TV on sale, a $1,000 TV might go on sale for $200 off, while a smaller $300 TV might only see a $50 discount.

Standard AirPods Discounts

The base-model AirPods (currently AirPods 4 and AirPods with Lightning Case) typically see discounts of $20 to $40 on Black Friday. Since these models retail between $129 and $179, that translates to roughly 15-25% off. Not bad for already affordable earbuds.

AirPods Pro Savings

AirPods Pro 2, Apple’s noise-canceling earbuds, usually drop $40 to $60 during Black Friday sales. With a retail price of $249, this represents some of the best value you’ll find all year. In recent years, we’ve even seen AirPods Pro dip as low as $189 on Black Friday, which is an incredible deal for premium earbuds.

AirPods Max Price Drops

AirPods Max, Apple’s over-ear headphones at $549, see the smallest percentage discounts but the largest dollar savings. Expect $50 to $100 off during Black Friday, bringing them down to $449-$499. Given how rarely these go on sale, that’s a solid opportunity.

Did You Know? In 2022, shoppers saved an average of 22% on AirPods during Black Friday week, according to Adobe Analytics. That’s significantly higher than the average 14% discount on consumer electronics during the same period.

Where Are the Best Black Friday AirPods Deals?

Not all retailers offer the same deals, and some consistently beat others when it comes to AirPods discounts. Here’s where to focus your shopping energy for the best prices.

Amazon

Amazon is consistently one of the most aggressive AirPods deal retailers during Black Friday. They often price-match or beat competitors, and their lightning deals can disappear fast. Plus, if you have Amazon Prime, you’ll get free shipping. In past years, Amazon has offered AirPods Pro for as low as $174 and AirPods 3 for around $119 on Black Friday.

Best Buy

Best Buy frequently runs Black Friday doorbuster deals on AirPods, especially for My Best Buy Plus members who get early access. They also offer bundle deals where you can get AirPods with an Apple gift card. Best Buy is particularly good for AirPods Max deals, as they sometimes include free Apple Music trials.

Walmart

Walmart competes hard on AirPods pricing and often matches Amazon’s lowest prices. They occasionally throw in special bundles, like AirPods with Walmart+ membership discounts. Their rollback deals on Black Friday have featured AirPods Pro 2 for $189 in previous years.

Target

Target’s Black Friday deals often include AirPods, and Target Circle members sometimes get additional savings. They’ve been known to offer gift card bundles, like a $50 gift card with the purchase of AirPods Pro. Target also has the advantage of price matching if you find a better deal elsewhere.

Costco

Costco members sometimes see exclusive AirPods bundles, though their deals aren’t always the lowest in terms of price. Where Costco shines is in bundle value, often pairing AirPods with extended warranties or Apple gift cards. If you’re already a Costco member, it’s worth checking their Black Friday ad.

Apple Store

Here’s a fun fact that surprises many shoppers: Apple itself rarely offers Black Friday discounts on AirPods. Instead, Apple usually offers gift cards with purchases during the holiday season. So while you might get a $50-$75 Apple gift card with AirPods from Apple, you won’t see direct price cuts like at other retailers. If you want the lowest cash price, shop elsewhere.

When Do Black Friday AirPods Deals Start?

The name “Black Friday” is a bit misleading these days because the deals often start much earlier. In recent years, AirPods deals have been dropping throughout November, not just on the day after Thanksgiving.

Early November Deals

Some retailers start releasing “early Black Friday” deals in early to mid-November. These can be hit or miss, but sometimes they offer the best prices because retailers are trying to capture early shoppers. Amazon, in particular, has started running “Black Friday Early Access” deals starting November 1st in recent years.

The Week Before Black Friday

Most major retailers release their Black Friday ads during the week before Thanksgiving, and this is when you’ll see the majority of AirPods deals drop. Keep your eyes peeled around November 15-20 for the best pre-Black Friday prices.

Black Friday Itself

Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) still features plenty of AirPods deals, and some retailers reserve their best prices for this day. However, the hottest deals can sell out quickly, especially limited-quantity doorbusters. If you see a great deal, don’t wait too long to pull the trigger.

Cyber Monday

Cyber Monday extends Black Friday deals online, and you might find even better prices on AirPods as retailers try to capture the final wave of online shoppers. In fact, some of the absolute lowest AirPods prices of the season have appeared on Cyber Monday in past years.

Pro Tip: Create a price-tracking alert using tools like CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon) or browser extensions like Honey. Set your target price, and you’ll get notified the moment AirPods hit your desired discount. This is like having a personal shopping assistant working for you 24/7.

Which AirPods Model Has the Best Black Friday Deal?

Not all AirPods deals are created equal. The “best” deal depends on what you’re looking for: biggest percentage off, biggest dollar savings, or best overall value.

Best Percentage Discount: Standard AirPods

The standard AirPods (entry-level) usually see the highest percentage discounts, sometimes up to 30% off. Since these are already the most affordable AirPods, the actual dollar savings might be smaller, but if you’re on a tight budget, this is where you’ll find the best bargain.

Best Dollar Savings: AirPods Max

AirPods Max offer the largest dollar-amount savings during Black Friday. While the percentage discount might only be 10-15%, you’re saving $50-$100 on headphones that cost over $500. If you’ve been waiting for AirPods Max to go on sale, Black Friday is your moment.

Best Overall Value: AirPods Pro

AirPods Pro 2 hit the sweet spot for most shoppers. They offer premium features like active noise cancellation and transparency mode, and Black Friday typically brings them down to $189-$199. That’s a $50-$60 discount on already excellent earbuds, making them arguably the best AirPods value of the year.

The Newest Model Strategy

When Apple releases new AirPods (typically in September or October), the previous generation often sees the steepest Black Friday discounts. For example, when AirPods 4 launched in late 2024, AirPods 3 saw record-low Black Friday prices. If you don’t need the absolute latest model, this is a great strategy for maximum savings.

Did You Know? Apple’s AirPods business generated approximately $17.5 billion in revenue in 2023, making it one of the company’s most successful product lines. This massive market presence is exactly why retailers fight so hard to offer competitive Black Friday AirPods deals.

How to Spot a Real AirPods Black Friday Deal

Not every “sale” is actually a good deal. Some retailers inflate the “original” price to make discounts look bigger than they really are. Here’s how to make sure you’re getting genuine savings.

Know the Regular Price

Before Black Friday, take note of the current AirPods prices at the Apple Store. This is your baseline for comparison. If a retailer claims AirPods Pro are “on sale for $200” but the regular price is $200, that’s not really a deal. The actual retail price of AirPods Pro 2 is $249, so anything significantly below that is a real discount.

Check Price History

Use price tracking tools to see the historical price of AirPods. If a product was selling for $180 last month, a “Black Friday deal” of $185 isn’t impressive. Tools like Keepa, CamelCamelCamel, and Honey can show you whether a price is actually low or just marketed as a sale.

Watch for Bundle Tricks

Some retailers advertise low prices but require you to buy bundles or sign up for subscriptions to get the deal. While bundles can offer good value, make sure you’re not paying for things you don’t want. A “free” Apple Music trial isn’t really free if you have to pay for a year upfront.

Compare Across Retailers

The same AirPods model will be on sale at multiple retailers. Don’t just buy from the first place you see a deal. Spend 10 minutes comparing prices across Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target. The savings can be $10-$30 just by choosing the right retailer.

Be Cautious of Third-Party Sellers

On Amazon especially, you’ll see AirPods sold by third-party sellers at suspiciously low prices. While some are legitimate, others might be refurbished units sold as new or even counterfeit products. Stick to “Sold by Amazon” or major retailers to ensure you’re getting genuine Apple products with valid warranties.

Tips for Buying AirPods on Black Friday

Want to make sure you get the best possible deal on AirPods this Black Friday? These insider tips will help you shop like a pro.

Make a Shopping List

Decide which AirPods model you want before the sales start. This prevents impulse buying and helps you focus on the specific deal you’re looking for. Write down your target price too, so you know a good deal when you see one.

Set a Budget and Stick to It

It’s easy to get caught up in Black Friday hype and overspend. Decide your maximum budget beforehand. If AirPods Pro drop to $189 and your budget is $200, that’s a win. Don’t get talked into spending $250 just because there’s a “better” model available.

Use Cashback and Rewards

Stack your savings by using cashback credit cards or rewards programs. Many credit cards offer 2-5% cashback on purchases, and some have special Black Friday bonuses. Combine this with the sale price for double the savings. Just be sure to pay off your credit card balance to avoid interest charges.

Check Return Policies

Before buying, verify the retailer’s return policy. Most major retailers offer 30-day returns during the holidays, but some sale items might have different terms. Keep all packaging and receipts until you’re sure you’re keeping the AirPods.

Consider AppleCare+

AirPods aren’t cheap, and accidents happen. Some retailers offer discounted AppleCare+ during Black Friday. If you’re buying AirPods Pro or AirPods Max, the added protection might be worth the extra cost, especially if you’re prone to losing small earbuds.

Shop Early for Best Selection

The best deals sometimes come with limited inventory. If you see an exceptional AirPods deal, grab it. Don’t wait until Black Friday itself if the same price is already available. There’s no guarantee the deal will last, and popular models can sell out fast.

Sign Up for Retailer Alerts

Most major retailers let you create wishlists or sign up for price drop alerts. Set up notifications for AirPods at your preferred retailers, and you’ll get an email or text the moment prices drop. This is especially helpful if you’re targeting a specific model.

Pro Tip: If you have a rewards credit card with a portal like Chase Ultimate Rewards or Amex Membership Rewards, check if they offer additional cashback at retailers like Best Buy or Amazon. Sometimes you can earn 5-10% extra on top of the sale price. That’s like getting paid to shop!

What About Other Apple Products During Black Friday?

While this guide focuses on AirPods, it’s worth knowing that Black Friday is a great time to buy other Apple products too. If you’re planning a bigger Apple shopping spree, you can often bundle savings.

iPhone Deals

Carriers and retailers offer iPhone discounts during Black Friday, often with trade-in offers. If you’re upgrading your phone anyway, you might be able to score AirPods as part of a bundle deal. T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T have all offered iPhone + AirPods bundles in past Black Friday sales.

Apple Watch Deals

Apple Watch Series models and Apple Watch Ultra frequently see $50-$150 discounts during Black Friday. Pairing a discounted Apple Watch with discounted AirPods can make for a substantial upgrade package.

iPad and MacBook Savings

While the discounts on iPads and MacBooks aren’t as steep as AirPods, you can still save $50-$200 on these products. If you need multiple Apple products, Black Friday is the time to buy them all at once.

Should You Wait or Buy Now?

The decision to buy AirPods during Black Friday or wait depends on your situation. Here’s a simple framework to help you decide.

Buy during Black Friday if you need new AirPods now, want the latest model, or are looking for the best prices of the year. Black Friday guarantees the best deals for most of the year on AirPods, and waiting until after the holidays usually means prices go back up to retail.

Wait if a new AirPods model is expected to launch soon (Apple typically refreshes AirPods in September/October), or if the current deals aren’t better than prices you’ve seen recently. Remember, if you can find AirPods Pro for $190 in October, a “Black Friday deal” of $200 isn’t really a deal at all.

Generally speaking, if AirPods are on your wishlist, Black Friday is the best time to buy. The deals are real, the savings are substantial, and the selection is excellent. Just make sure you’re getting genuine discounts and not falling for marketing tricks.

Final Thoughts

AirPods absolutely go on sale during Black Friday, and it’s one of the best shopping events to grab them at significant discounts. With savings ranging from $20 on standard AirPods to $100 on AirPods Max, there’s something for every budget.

The key to successful Black Friday AirPods shopping is preparation. Know which model you want, understand the regular prices, and have a plan for which retailers to check. Use price tracking tools to spot genuine deals, and don’t be afraid to buy when you see a great price, because the best deals can sell out quickly.

Whether you’re buying AirPods as a gift, upgrading your old ones, or treating yourself to your first pair, Black Friday offers the perfect opportunity to save money. Just remember to stick to your budget, verify you’re getting authentic products, and enjoy the satisfaction of scoring a great deal. Happy shopping!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do AirPods really go on sale on Black Friday?

Yes, AirPods are discounted every year during Black Friday at retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target. Discounts typically range from $20 to $80 off depending on the model, with AirPods Pro often seeing the best deals around $189-$199.

Which retailer has the best AirPods Black Friday deal?

Amazon and Best Buy consistently offer the most competitive AirPods prices during Black Friday. However, the “best” deal can vary by year, so it’s worth comparing prices across multiple retailers before purchasing to ensure you get the lowest price.

How much do AirPods Pro usually cost on Black Friday?

AirPods Pro 2 typically drop to $189-$199 during Black Friday sales, down from their regular $249 retail price. Some years have seen prices as low as $174, making it one of the best times of year to buy noise-canceling AirPods.

Does the Apple Store offer Black Friday AirPods deals?

The Apple Store rarely offers direct price discounts on AirPods during Black Friday. Instead, Apple typically provides promotional gift cards with purchases, usually ranging from $50-$75. For the lowest cash prices, third-party retailers offer better deals.

When should I start looking for AirPods Black Friday deals?

Start monitoring AirPods prices in early November. Many retailers release “early Black Friday” deals throughout the month, with the majority of deals appearing the week before Thanksgiving. The best prices typically run from Black Friday through Cyber Monday.

Are older AirPods models a better deal on Black Friday?

Yes, when Apple releases new AirPods models, previous generations often see steeper discounts during Black Friday. If you don’t need the absolute latest features, buying a previous-generation model on Black Friday can save you significantly more money while still providing excellent performance.