Do Airpods Usually Go on Sale for Black Friday

Yes, AirPods almost always go on sale for Black Friday, making it one of the best times of year to buy them. Major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target typically discount AirPods by $20-$80, with some deals offering up to 30% savings on Pro models. Black Friday 2024 saw record-low prices, and shoppers can expect similar deals in 2025 if they plan ahead and know where to look.

Picture this: It’s Black Friday morning, you’re scrolling through deal sites with your coffee, and there they are. AirPods. On sale. But the big question is whether this happens every year or if it’s just lucky timing. The good news? AirPods going on sale for Black Friday isn’t a maybe thing. It’s practically a tradition at this point.

Since Apple first released AirPods back in 2016, Black Friday has become one of the most reliable times to score these popular earbuds at a discount. While Apple itself rarely drops prices, third-party retailers go all out competing for your dollars. Think of it like a giant race where stores are sprinting to offer the cheapest AirPods, and shoppers win the marathon.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about AirPods Black Friday sales. We’ll explore historical pricing patterns, reveal which models get the biggest discounts, share expert shopping strategies, and help you prepare for the deals ahead. By the end, you’ll know exactly when, where, and how to grab the best AirPods deal of the year.

Key Takeaways

• Historical Pattern: AirPods have gone on sale every Black Friday since 2017, with discounts ranging from $20 to $80 off retail prices.
• Best Models for Deals: AirPods Pro and AirPods Max typically see the deepest discounts, sometimes reaching 25-30% off.
• Top Retailers: Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and Costco consistently offer the strongest Black Friday AirPods deals.
• Deal Timing: Black Friday AirPods sales now span the entire month of November, not just one day.
• Price Tracking Matters: Using tools like CamelCamelCamel helps shoppers identify genuine deals versus fake discounts.
• 2024 Highlights: AirPods Pro 2 hit an all-time low of $149 (37% off) during Black Friday 2024 sales.
• Smart Shopping Tip: Apple’s own Black Friday promotions offer gift cards rather than direct discounts, which may not be the best value.

What Are AirPods and Why Do They Sell So Well?

AirPods are Apple’s wireless earbuds that took the world by storm. They’re tiny, white, and look a bit like toothbrush heads sticking out of your ears. But don’t let the simple design fool you. These little gadgets pack serious technology inside.

The current AirPods lineup includes several models. There’s the standard AirPods (now in their 4th generation), the premium AirPods Pro 2 with noise cancellation, and the over-ear AirPods Max. Each one connects seamlessly to iPhones, iPads, and Macs through Apple’s magical ecosystem.

Why AirPods Became a Cultural Phenomenon

Remember when everyone thought AirPods looked weird? That was about five minutes before they became the must-have tech accessory. By 2021, AirPods generated more revenue than Spotify, Twitter, and Shopify combined. Yeah, let that sink in.

The magic lies in the seamless connection. Open the case near your iPhone, and a pop-up asks if you want to connect. That’s it. No menus, no passwords, no fiddling with settings. It’s like the earbuds just know they belong with your phone.

The “Who, What, Where” of AirPods Sales

Who: Millions of shoppers worldwide, especially iPhone owners, students, and gift buyers during the holiday season.

What: Wireless earbuds with microphones, noise cancellation (Pro models), and smart features like spatial audio.

Where: Available at Apple Stores, Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, Costco, and countless electronics retailers.

When: Year-round at full price, but with notable discounts during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Prime Day, and back-to-school seasons.

Did You Know? Apple sold over 100 million AirPods in 2020 alone, making them the best-selling earbuds in the world by a huge margin.

Do AirPods Actually Go on Sale for Black Friday?

Here’s the straight answer: Yes. Absolutely. Without question. AirPods going on sale for Black Friday is one of the most predictable deals in all of consumer electronics.

Every single year since 2017, at least one major retailer has discounted AirPods for Black Friday. Sometimes it’s a modest $20 off. Other years, we’ve seen massive 40% discounts that made shoppers do happy dances in their living rooms.

The Historical Track Record

Let’s look at the receipts (figuratively speaking) from recent Black Fridays:

• 2017: First major AirPods Black Friday sale. Best Buy dropped AirPods to $119 (original $159).
• 2018: AirPods hit $129 at multiple retailers, a $30 savings.
• 2019: The deals expanded, with AirPods Pro launching and getting instant Black Friday discounts of $50.
• 2020: Pandemic year, but deals continued online. AirPods Pro dropped to $169 (was $249).
• 2021: AirPods 3 launched at $179, then hit $139 on Black Friday.
• 2022: AirPods Pro 2 launched at $249, Black Friday saw them at $199.
• 2023: Deep discounts across the board. AirPods 2 hit $79, AirPods Pro 2 at $189.
• 2024: Record-breaking year with AirPods Pro 2 hitting $149 at Walmart (a 40% discount).

That track record is about as reliable as the sun rising in the east. If you skip Black Friday, you’re basically leaving money on the table.

Why Retailers Discount AirPods So Aggressively

Here’s a fun fact: Apple doesn’t actually drop AirPods prices for Black Friday. They run their own promotion with gift cards instead. So why do other stores offer such deep discounts?

Think of it like a clearance sale at your favorite store. Retailers want to move inventory, attract foot traffic to their websites, and compete with Amazon. AirPods are like catnip for shoppers. When Best Buy shows AirPods on sale, people click. When people click, Best Buy can show them other deals. It’s a classic loss leader strategy.

Retailers often buy AirPods at wholesale prices and have room to offer discounts while still making money. Apple controls the MSRP (manufacturer’s suggested retail price), but retailers can drop prices as much as they want to stay competitive.

Which AirPods Models Get the Best Black Friday Deals?

Not all AirPods are created equal when it comes to Black Friday discounts. Some models see massive price drops, while others barely budge. Knowing the difference can save you serious cash.

AirPods Pro: The Black Friday Champion

AirPods Pro consistently get the best Black Friday deals. Why? Because Apple updates them regularly, and retailers want to clear out older stock. The Pro models also have higher price tags, which means bigger discount numbers that look impressive in advertisements.

The AirPods Pro 2 (with USB-C) hit an all-time low of $149 during Black Friday 2024 at Walmart. That’s $100 off the regular $249 price. A 40% discount is what deal hunters dream about.

AirPods (Standard Models): Steady Savings

The regular AirPods (currently AirPods 4) typically see $20-$30 discounts on Black Friday. Nothing earth-shattering, but still solid savings on a $129-$179 product.

The older AirPods 2 became a Black Friday superstar because retailers cleared them out at $79 or even $69. That’s basically half price for perfectly good wireless earbuds.

AirPods Max: Rare but Mighty Discounts

The AirPods Max are the over-ear luxury option at $549. Black Friday discounts here are uncommon but spectacular when they happen. We’ve seen them drop to $399-$449 during major sales events. A $150 discount on premium headphones is no joke.

AirPods Pro vs. AirPods 4: Which Should You Buy?

Imagine you’re choosing between a sedan and a sports car. Both get you where you need to go, but one is fancier. AirPods Pro 2 offer noise cancellation, better sound, and silicone tips for a secure fit. AirPods 4 are simpler, lighter, and more affordable.

On Black Friday, the Pro models give you more “bang for your buck” savings-wise. But if you just need earbuds for podcasts and calls, the standard AirPods at a discount are a smart buy.

Where to Find the Best Black Friday AirPods Deals

Knowing where to look is half the battle. Some retailers consistently outperform the competition on AirPods deals, while others are better avoided for these specific products.

Tier 1: The Best Places to Shop

Amazon: The king of AirPods deals. Amazon’s massive volume and competitive pricing make them a Black Friday powerhouse. They often match or beat other retailers’ prices, and Prime members get exclusive Lightning Deals on AirPods every year.

Walmart: Walmart rolled out some of the deepest discounts in 2024. Their $149 AirPods Pro 2 deal was the lowest price anywhere. Watch their Rollback deals and online specials closely.

Best Buy: The original electronics destination. Best Buy typically matches Amazon and offers in-store pickup so you can grab AirPods the same day you see the deal.

Target: Target Circle members often get exclusive AirPods deals. They also offer 5% off with RedCard, stacking with Black Friday prices for extra savings.

Tier 2: Worth Checking

Costco: If you’re a member, Costco occasionally offers AirPods bundles with Apple gift cards, effectively giving you a discount.

B&H Photo: A hidden gem in the electronics world. B&H often has competitive AirPods pricing with no sales tax in many states.

Apple Store: Apple itself rarely discounts AirPods. Instead, they offer gift cards with purchase (like a $75 gift card with AirPods Pro during Black Friday 2024). This is only worth it if you were planning to buy other Apple products anyway.

Places to Approach with Caution

Sketchy third-party sellers on Amazon and eBay can offer AirPods at suspicious prices. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Stick to “Sold by Amazon” or major retailers you trust.

Did You Know? Fake AirPods are one of the most counterfeited electronics in the world. Always buy from authorized retailers to ensure you’re getting genuine products.

When Do AirPods Black Friday Deals Start in 2025?

Here’s the thing about Black Friday deals in 2025: they don’t wait for Black Friday anymore. The shopping event has stretched into a full month of savings, often called “Black Friday Season” or the “Black Friday Month.”

The Early Bird Schedule

Retailers now release AirPods deals in waves throughout November:

• Early November (Nov 1-10): Amazon and Walmart often drop “early Black Friday” deals on AirPods to capture shoppers before competitors.
• Mid-November (Nov 11-20): Most major retailers officially launch their Black Friday ad scans, revealing planned AirPods deals.
• Black Friday Week (Nov 24-28): The traditional sales period with doorbuster deals and flash sales.
• Cyber Monday (Dec 1): Online-exclusive AirPods deals often extend the savings for another 24-48 hours.

The lesson? Start looking for AirPods deals in early November. The best prices sometimes hit before Black Friday itself, and popular models can sell out fast.

How to Prepare for Black Friday AirPods Sales

Think of Black Friday shopping like preparing for a treasure hunt. You wouldn’t just show up without a map, right?

Step 1: Know Your Price. Before November, know the regular retail price of the AirPods you want. This helps you recognize a genuine deal versus a fake “discount.”

Step 2: Set Up Price Alerts. Tools like CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon), Honey, and Keepa track AirPods prices and alert you when they drop below your desired threshold.

Step 3: Create Accounts Early. Have your Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart accounts set up with payment info saved. When a flash deal hits, you need to checkout in seconds, not minutes.

Step 4: Check Ad Scans. Major retailers release their Black Friday ads about 1-2 weeks before the sale. Websites like BFAds and TheBlackFriday.com compile these ads so you can plan.

Smart Shopping Strategies for Black Friday AirPods Deals

Finding AirPods on sale is easy. Finding them at the best possible price requires a little strategy. These tips can help you maximize your savings.

Stacking Discounts for Maximum Savings

Some savvy shoppers stack multiple discounts for huge savings. Here’s how:

• Cashback Credit Cards: Use a credit card that offers 2-5% cashback on electronics purchases. Some cards even have rotating categories with 5% back at Amazon or Walmart during Q4.
• Cashback Apps: Apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Dosh offer cashback when you shop through their links. Stack these with Black Friday prices for double savings.
• Store Rewards: Target Circle, Walmart+, and Best Buy Total members often get exclusive AirPods prices or early access to deals.
• Student Discounts: If you’re a student, Apple’s education store sometimes has AirPods discounts year-round. Check this against Black Friday prices.

The Trade-In Option

Apple’s trade-in program sometimes offers bonus credits during Black Friday. Trade in old AirPods or other devices, then apply the credit toward your new AirPods purchase. In some cases, this can stack with retailer discounts (though typically only at Apple directly).

Buying Refurbished for Extra Savings

Apple’s Certified Refurbished store offers AirPods at 15-20% off year-round. During Black Friday, these prices can drop further. Refurbished AirPods come with new batteries, fresh cases, and the same warranty as new ones. It’s like buying a “like new” car at a discount.

Avoiding Common Black Friday Mistakes

Even experienced shoppers make mistakes during Black Friday. Avoid these pitfalls:

• Don’t Impulse Buy: Just because AirPods are on sale doesn’t mean you need them. If you have working earbuds, skip the deal.
• Watch for Bundles: Sometimes a “deal” is actually a bundle with extras you don’t want. Calculate the per-item value.
• Check Return Policies: Black Friday sometimes has modified return policies. Make sure you can return AirPods if they don’t work out.
• Don’t Forget Cyber Monday: If you miss Black Friday, Cyber Monday often has equally good or better deals online.

Did You Know? About 30% of Black Friday shoppers experience “buyer’s remorse” within a week of their purchase. Stay disciplined and only buy what you planned.

What If You Miss the Black Friday AirPods Deals?

Life happens. Maybe you forgot. Maybe you were busy. Maybe your dog ate your homework. Whatever the reason, missing Black Friday AirPods sales isn’t the end of the world.

Backup Opportunities for AirPods Savings

The good news is AirPods go on sale at other times too. While Black Friday typically offers the deepest discounts, these alternatives can still save you money:

• Cyber Monday: Usually the same prices or slightly better, especially online.
• Prime Day (July): Amazon’s summer sale often includes AirPods at decent discounts, though usually smaller than Black Friday.
• Back-to-School (August-September): Education discounts and student promotions.
• Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day: Surprisingly good AirPods deals as gifts.
• Amazon Prime Big Deal Days (October): A newer event that sometimes matches Black Friday pricing.

Should You Wait or Buy Now?

This is the eternal question. Here’s a simple framework:

Buy Now If: Your current earbuds are dead, you have a gift-giving occasion, or the current price is already matching typical Black Friday lows.

Wait If: Your current earbuds work fine, you can wait 6-8 weeks, and you want maximum savings.

Remember: The best deal is the one that gets you what you need at a price you’re comfortable paying. A 30% discount on something you don’t need isn’t really a deal.

The Bottom Line on AirPods Black Friday Sales

AirPods absolutely go on sale for Black Friday. They have gone on sale every year since 2017, and there’s no reason to expect 2025 will be different. In fact, with Apple releasing updated AirPods models regularly and retailers competing fiercely for holiday sales, Black Friday 2025 should offer some of the best AirPods deals we’ve ever seen.

The key to scoring the best deal is preparation. Know what you want, know the regular price, set up alerts, and be ready to act fast when deals drop. With the right approach, you can save $30-$100 on AirPods this Black Friday, money that’s better spent on holiday gifts, experiences, or saved for a rainy day.

Whether you’re buying your first pair of AirPods or upgrading to the latest model, Black Friday is your moment. The deals are coming, the discounts are real, and with this guide in hand, you’re ready to take advantage of every dollar saved. Just remember to stay calm, shop smart, and enjoy the satisfaction of a great deal well-earned.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do AirPods usually drop on Black Friday?

AirPods discounts on Black Friday typically range from $20 to $100 off retail price, depending on the version. Standard AirPods usually see $20-$30 off, while AirPods Pro models can drop $50-$100. The deepest discounts occur on older models being cleared out for newer versions.

When does the AirPods Black Friday sale start in 2025?

AirPods deals will likely start appearing around early to mid-November 2025, with major sales during Black Friday week (November 24-28). Many retailers now offer “early Black Friday” deals throughout November, so it’s smart to start watching prices in early November.

Does Apple itself offer AirPods discounts on Black Friday?

Apple rarely offers direct price discounts on AirPods. Instead, they typically provide Apple gift cards (often $50-$75) with AirPods purchases during Black Friday. This benefits shoppers who plan to buy additional Apple products but isn’t as valuable as direct discounts from other retailers.

Which retailer has the best AirPods Black Friday deals?

Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy consistently offer the best AirPods Black Friday deals. In 2024, Walmart had the lowest price on AirPods Pro 2 at $149. Amazon typically matches competitors and offers exclusive Lightning Deals for Prime members, while Best Buy provides the convenience of in-store pickup.

Are Black Friday AirPods deals worth it or are they fake discounts?

Genuine Black Friday AirPods deals offer real savings of 20-40% off regular prices. To verify authenticity, use price tracking tools like CamelCamelCamel or Keepa to check price history. If the “sale” price matches the typical everyday price, it’s not a real deal. Legitimate discounts will be noticeably lower than the 30-day average price.

Should I buy AirPods on Black Friday or wait for Cyber Monday?

Both days typically offer similar AirPods deals, but they can differ slightly. Black Friday focuses more on doorbuster deals and in-store specials, while Cyber Monday emphasizes online-exclusive offers. If you see a great Black Friday deal on AirPods, grab it because popular models can sell out before Cyber Monday arrives.