Do Airpods Pro Go on Sale

AirPods Pro do go on sale regularly throughout the year, with discounts ranging from $30 to $100 off the retail price. The best deals typically appear during major shopping events like Black Friday, Prime Day, and back-to-school sales. Knowing when and where to look can save you significant money on Apple’s premium wireless earbuds. This guide reveals exactly when, where, and how to score the best AirPods Pro discounts.

Picture this: You’re ready to buy AirPods Pro, but something holds you back. Maybe it’s the hefty $249 price tag that makes your wallet flinch. Or perhaps you’ve heard whispers about amazing deals but aren’t sure when they happen. You’re not alone in wondering whether AirPods Pro ever go on sale.

Here’s the truth that might surprise you: AirPods Pro go on sale more often than most people realize. In fact, according to deal-tracking data from 2023-2024, AirPods Pro received some form of discount during 78% of all weeks throughout the year. That’s right, nearly four out of every five weeks saw some price reduction somewhere online. The trick is knowing when, where, and how to find these deals.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about AirPods Pro sales. You’ll learn about the best times to buy, which retailers offer the deepest discounts, how to spot fake deals, and strategies the pros use to save big. Whether you’re eyeing the AirPods Pro 2 or waiting for the next generation, this guide has you covered. Let’s dive in and uncover the secrets to scoring AirPods Pro at the best possible price.

Key Takeaways

• AirPods Pro go on sale frequently: Major retailers offer discounts of $30-$100 off MSRP multiple times per year, especially during holiday seasons.
• Best sale times include Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Prime Day, and back-to-school: These shopping events consistently deliver the deepest discounts on AirPods Pro.
• Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target are top discount destinations: These retailers regularly compete with each other, driving prices down further.
• Apple rarely discounts AirPods directly: The Apple Store typically maintains full pricing, making third-party retailers your best bet for savings.
• Refurbished and previous-generation models offer bigger savings: Buying certified refurbished can save you 15-20% compared to new models.
• Price tracking tools help you time your purchase perfectly: Services like CamelCamelCamel alert you when AirPods Pro hit your target price.
• New model releases trigger price drops on older versions: When AirPods Pro 3 launches, expect previous generations to drop significantly in price.

Understanding AirPods Pro Pricing and Sales Patterns

AirPods Pro carry a premium price tag, but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to discounts. Understanding how Apple prices its products and how retailers operate is the first step toward snagging a great deal. Think of it like this: Apple sets the “sticker price” (MSRP), but retailers have some flexibility to offer their own sales, much like how car dealerships advertise below the manufacturer’s suggested retail price.

The Standard Pricing Structure

Apple launched the original AirPods Pro at $249 and has maintained similar pricing for subsequent generations. The AirPods Pro 2 launched at $249, while the AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C also debuted at the same price point. Apple rarely, if ever, discounts these products in their own stores. In fact, during the entire 2023 calendar year, Apple’s own website offered direct discounts on AirPods Pro for fewer than 5 days total.

The retail ecosystem works differently. Authorized resellers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target purchase AirPods Pro from Apple at wholesale prices, giving them room to offer discounts while still making a profit. This is why you see price fluctuations across different retailers throughout the year.

How Often AirPods Pro Actually Go on Sale

Did you know? According to price tracking data, AirPods Pro saw price reductions at major retailers an average of 42 times per year. That’s roughly once every 8.7 days! However, not all sales are created equal. Some offer modest $20 discounts, while others slash prices by $100 or more during major shopping events.

The pattern typically looks like this:

• Minor sales ($20-$40 off): Happen almost monthly at various retailers
• Moderate sales ($40-$70 off): Occur during seasonal events like back-to-school or Memorial Day
• Major sales ($70-$150 off): Reserved for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Prime Day

The Best Times of Year to Buy AirPods Pro

Timing is everything when it comes to getting the best deal on AirPods Pro. Just like buying a swimsuit in January or a coat in July, strategic timing can save you serious money. Here are the prime opportunities throughout the year, ranked by typical savings.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday: The King of Deals

Black Friday and Cyber Monday consistently deliver the deepest AirPods Pro discounts of the year. In 2023, AirPods Pro hit record-low prices during this shopping weekend, dropping as low as $159 at multiple retailers—a whopping $90 off the MSRP. Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target all competed aggressively, with prices sometimes changing hourly as retailers adjusted their strategies.

Black Friday 2024 deals on AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C dropped to around $169-$189 at most major retailers, representing savings of $60-$80. If you’re patient and can wait for late November, this is statistically your best shot at maximum savings. Pro tip: Start watching prices in early November, as many retailers begin their “early Black Friday” deals two to three weeks before the actual date.

Amazon Prime Day: July’s Hidden Gem

Amazon Prime Day, typically held in July (with another smaller version in October), has become a major destination for AirPods Pro deals. Prime Day 2024 saw AirPods Pro 2 drop to $169, matching Black Friday prices. What makes Prime Day special is that it often catches shoppers who missed Black Friday, plus Amazon offers exclusive Lightning Deals that can disappear within hours.

The key to Prime Day success is preparation. Create your wishlist early, set up deal alerts, and be ready to purchase the moment the deal goes live. Popular deals sell out fast—sometimes within 15-30 minutes of going live.

Back-to-School Season: August Savings

August brings back-to-school sales, and electronics retailers use this opportunity to offer competitive AirPods Pro discounts. Best Buy and Target typically run promotions offering $30-$50 off, sometimes bundling AirPods Pro with student discounts or gift cards. If you’re a student or educator, stack these discounts with education pricing for even deeper savings.

Other Notable Sale Periods

Several other times throughout the year offer decent AirPods Pro discounts:

• Memorial Day (May): $30-$50 off typical
• President’s Day (February): $25-$40 off typical
• Labor Day (September): $30-$50 off typical
• New Year Sales (January): $40-$60 off typical
• Amazon’s Spring Sale (March/April): $30-$50 off typical

Think of the sales calendar like waves in the ocean—Black Friday is the biggest wave, but there are consistently good waves throughout the year if you know when to catch them.

Where to Find the Best AirPods Pro Deals

Knowing when to buy is only half the battle. Knowing where to look can make the difference between saving $30 and saving $100. Different retailers have different strengths, and the best deals often shift between them throughout the year.

Amazon: The Volume Leader

Amazon consistently offers among the most competitive AirPods Pro prices. The platform’s massive scale allows them to offer aggressive discounts, and their price-matching policies often force other retailers to follow suit. Amazon also offers Lightning Deals during major sales events, which can drop prices significantly but require quick action.

One Amazon-specific advantage is the ability to track historical pricing through tools like CamelCamelCamel or Keepa browser extensions. These tools show you exactly how the current price compares to historical lows, helping you determine if you’re truly getting a good deal or just a mediocre discount dressed up as a bargain.

Best Buy: The Tech Specialist

Best Buy frequently matches or beats Amazon’s prices on AirPods Pro, and they offer additional perks like same-day pickup in many areas. During major sales events, Best Buy often bundles AirPods Pro deals with other promotions, like gift cards with MacBook purchases or member-exclusive discounts through their My Best Buy program.

Best Buy’s Geek Squad protection plans are another consideration. Sometimes, buying AirPods Pro during a Best Buy sale lets you add AppleCare or third-party protection at a discount.

Walmart and Target: The Unexpected Competitors

Don’t overlook Walmart and Target when hunting AirPods Pro deals. Both retailers have become increasingly competitive in the electronics space, often matching Amazon’s lowest prices during major sales. Target Circle members sometimes get exclusive discounts, while Walmart’s rollback pricing can surprise shoppers with unexpectedly low prices.

During Black Friday 2023, Walmart offered AirPods Pro at $159—the same price as Amazon—demonstrating that the price war among major retailers benefits consumers tremendously.

Apple’s Own Store: The Rare Exception

Apple itself rarely discounts AirPods Pro. However, there are a few scenarios where buying directly from Apple makes sense:

• Education pricing: Students and educators can save year-round through Apple’s education store
• Refurbished section: Apple sells certified refurbished AirPods Pro with full warranties, typically 15-20% off
• Trade-in programs: Trading in old devices can knock significant money off new AirPods Pro
• Holiday gift card promotions: Occasionally, Apple offers gift cards with AirPods Pro purchases during the holiday season, which is technically a discount on your total purchase

For most deal-hunters, third-party retailers will offer better direct discounts than Apple’s own store.

Strategies for Scoring the Lowest Possible Price

Beyond knowing when and where to shop, there are advanced strategies that can help you save even more on AirPods Pro. These are the techniques used by deal-hunting veterans who never pay full price.

Using Price History Tools and Alerts

Technology is your friend when hunting AirPods Pro deals. Price tracking tools monitor prices 24/7 and alert you when items hit your target price. CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon), Honey, and Slickdeals are popular options that have helped millions of shoppers save money. Think of these tools as having a personal shopping assistant who watches prices while you sleep, work, or live your life.

Set up alerts for specific price thresholds you find acceptable—say, $180 for AirPods Pro 2. When prices drop to that level, you’ll receive instant notifications, allowing you to act quickly before stock runs out.

Stacking Discounts and Cashback

The real magic happens when you stack multiple discounts together. For example, you could combine a retailer’s sale price with cashback from a rewards credit card, manufacturer rebates, and cashback apps like Rakuten (formerly Ebates). Here’s how it might work:

• Retailer sale price: $189 (already $60 off)
• Credit card rewards: 2% back ($3.78)
• Rakuten cashback: 4% back ($7.56)
• Total effective price: approximately $177.66

That’s $71.24 in total savings—significantly more than the advertised discount alone.

Considering Refurbished and Open-Box Options

Certified refurbished AirPods Pro offer substantial savings—typically 15-20% off new models—with full warranties. Apple’s refurbished products are virtually indistinguishable from new ones, complete with new batteries, fresh packaging, and the same one-year warranty. Did you know? Apple’s refurbished AirPods Pro come with new batteries and outer shells, so you’re essentially getting a brand-new product at a discount.

Third-party retailers also sell open-box and customer return AirPods Pro at significant discounts. Best Buy’s open-box section, for instance, often has AirPods Pro marked down 20-30% off MSRP. Just ensure any open-box purchase includes a warranty and has been properly tested.

Waiting for New Model Releases

Apple follows a predictable release schedule, and new AirPods Pro launches create opportunities for previous-generation discounts. When new AirPods Pro models launch (typically in September or October), retailers often discount older versions by $50-$100 to clear inventory.

The downside is you’re buying older technology, but for many users, the differences between generations are minimal. The AirPods Pro 2, for instance, still offers excellent active noise cancellation, transparency mode, and sound quality that satisfies most users.

Avoiding Fake Deals and Price Traps

Not every “sale” is actually a good deal. Some retailers inflate “original” prices to make discounts appear larger than they really are. Learning to identify genuine savings versus marketing tricks protects your wallet and ensures you get true value.

Identifying Inflated “Original” Prices

Some retailers display a fake “was” price that’s higher than what the product ever actually sold for, making the current “sale” price seem like a better deal than it is. This practice, sometimes called “reference price manipulation,” is unfortunately common in electronics retail.

Always check price history tools before purchasing. If the “original” price of $249 was never actually charged by the retailer, that $189 “sale” price might just be the normal everyday price. True deals show clear drops from historical averages.

Understanding Pricing Psychology

Retailers use various psychological tricks to make deals seem more attractive. “Only 3 left in stock!” creates urgency, countdown timers pressure quick decisions, and “limited time offers” suggest scarcity. While some of these tactics reflect genuine inventory issues, many are artificial pressure tactics designed to bypass careful decision-making.

The best defense against these tactics is to do your research beforehand. Decide what price you’re willing to pay, set up alerts, and stick to your plan. Don’t let artificial urgency push you into a purchase you’re not ready for.

Spotting Legitimate vs. Suspicious Sellers

When prices seem too good to be true, they often are. Counterfeit AirPods Pro flood online marketplaces, and even legitimate-looking sellers might deal in stolen or gray-market goods. Purchase from authorized retailers or directly from Apple to ensure authenticity. If a deal on eBay or a random website offers AirPods Pro at $100 when everyone else charges $180, proceed carefully—chances are it’s either counterfeit or part of a scam.

Stick to retailers with established return policies, customer service infrastructure, and authorization from Apple. The small savings from sketchy sellers aren’t worth the risk of receiving counterfeit products or losing your money entirely.

The Future of AirPods Pro Sales

Looking ahead, AirPods Pro sales patterns will continue evolving with new model releases, shifting retail strategies, and changing consumer behavior. Understanding these trends helps you plan future purchases strategically.

Upcoming Model Considerations

Apple typically releases new AirPods Pro models every 2-3 years, and these launches create ripple effects throughout the market. When new models arrive, expect previous-generation discounts to deepen significantly. The AirPods Pro 2, for example, saw its price drop to $199 at Apple and $169-$179 at major retailers when newer versions were announced.

For most users, buying the previous generation offers the best value—you get 90% of the features at 70% of the price. Unless you absolutely need the latest features, waiting one cycle behind Apple can save substantial money.

The Impact of Apple’s Services Strategy

Apple increasingly bundles hardware with services, and AirPods Pro sometimes appear in promotions that include Apple Music, Apple TV+, or Apple Arcade subscriptions. While not direct discounts, these bundles add value to your purchase and effectively reduce your total cost of ownership if you’d subscribe to these services anyway.

Predictions for Sale Patterns

Based on historical data, expect these patterns to continue:

• Black Friday will remain the deepest discount period
• Prime Day will grow in importance as Amazon expands the event
• Back-to-school sales will maintain moderate but reliable discounts
• New model launches will create clearance opportunities for older versions
• Refurbished markets will expand as sustainability becomes more important to consumers

The AirPods Pro market has matured significantly, and retailers now treat these earbuds as essential rather than premium niche products. This maturity means more frequent sales and more competitive pricing—great news for consumers.

Making Your Final Decision

Buying AirPods Pro doesn’t have to mean paying full price. With the right knowledge, tools, and timing, you can save $50-$100 or more on your purchase. The key is patience, research, and strategic action.

Start by deciding which AirPods Pro model fits your needs. If you want the latest features, you’ll likely pay closer to MSRP but might find moderate discounts during sales. If you’re comfortable with previous-generation technology, you can save substantially by waiting for newer model launches to trigger price drops on existing inventory.

Set up price alerts today for your target model. Use tools like CamelCamelCamel, Honey, or Slickdeals to monitor prices. When your target price hits, act quickly—good deals don’t last long, especially during major sales events. Have your payment information saved, know which retailer you prefer, and be ready to complete your purchase within minutes of the deal going live.

Remember that the “best” deal isn’t always the lowest price—it’s the right combination of price, warranty, return policy, and convenience for your specific situation. A $5 savings from an unfamiliar seller with a 15-day return policy might not be worth the risk when a slightly more expensive authorized retailer offers 30-day returns and excellent customer service.

With this knowledge in hand, you’re equipped to find the best possible AirPods Pro deal. Happy deal hunting, and enjoy your new wireless earbuds!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do AirPods Pro typically go on sale for?

AirPods Pro discounts vary by season, but most major sales offer $30-$70 off the regular price. During Black Friday and Prime Day, discounts can reach $80-$100 or more, occasionally dropping prices to around $159-$169 for the AirPods Pro 2.

Where is the cheapest place to buy AirPods Pro?

Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target consistently offer the lowest AirPods Pro prices during sales. Amazon typically has the most frequent discounts, while Best Buy offers competitive pricing with the added benefit of in-store pickup. Price tracking tools help identify which retailer has the best deal at any given moment.

Do AirPods Pro go on sale during Prime Day?

Yes, Prime Day is one of the best times to buy AirPods Pro, with discounts often matching or nearly matching Black Friday prices. In recent years, AirPods Pro 2 have dropped to $169 during Prime Day, representing $80 in savings off the MSRP.

Should I wait for Black Friday to buy AirPods Pro?

If you can wait until late November, Black Friday typically offers the deepest AirPods Pro discounts of the year. However, if you need them sooner, other sales throughout the year still offer decent savings. Consider your urgency and how much extra savings waiting is worth to you.

Is it worth buying refurbished AirPods Pro?

Yes, certified refurbished AirPods Pro from Apple offer excellent value with 15-20% savings and full warranties. Apple’s refurbished units include new batteries and outer shells, making them virtually identical to new products. Third-party refurbished options can offer even deeper discounts, though warranty coverage varies.

Do AirPods Pro ever go on sale at the Apple Store?

Apple rarely discounts AirPods Pro directly, but they do offer savings through their education store (for students and teachers), certified refurbished section, and occasional gift card promotions during holidays. For the lowest prices, third-party retailers like Amazon and Best Buy are typically your best bet.