Does Airpod on Sale in Black Friday

Yes, AirPods almost always go on sale during Black Friday, with discounts ranging from $20 to $80 off depending on the model. Major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target typically offer significant price drops on AirPods 2, AirPods 3, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max. The best deals historically appear online, with some retailers matching or beating Amazon’s prices. Shopping early and comparing prices across multiple stores can help you save the most money on your AirPod purchase this Black Friday.

Picture this: It’s Black Friday morning, you’re scrolling through deal after deal, and suddenly you spot AirPods at a price that seems too good to be true. Is it? Every year, millions of shoppers ask the same question: does AirPod go on sale during Black Friday? The short answer is a resounding yes, but there’s much more to the story than just a simple yes or no.

Black Friday has become the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season, and Apple products are consistently among the most sought-after items. AirPods, in particular, have become a cultural phenomenon since their launch in 2016. They’re everywhere—from gym bags to office desks to subway commutes. This massive popularity means retailers know that offering AirPod deals can drive significant traffic to their stores and websites.

But here’s what many shoppers don’t realize: not all Black Friday AirPod deals are created equal. Some are genuinely fantastic savings, while others are just okay. Some models see deep discounts, while others barely budge in price. Understanding the patterns, timing, and strategies behind AirPod Black Friday sales can mean the difference between scoring the deal of the year and missing out entirely.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about AirPod Black Friday sales. You’ll learn which models get the best discounts, which retailers offer the most competitive prices, when to start shopping, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re eyeing the budget-friendly AirPods 2, the feature-rich AirPods Pro, or the premium AirPods Max, this guide will help you make an informed purchasing decision.

Key Takeaways

• AirPods consistently see Black Friday discounts: Every year since 2017, AirPods have been featured in Black Friday sales, with average savings between 20-40% off retail price.
• Best retailers for AirPod deals: Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and Apple’s own store typically offer competitive Black Friday pricing on AirPods.
• AirPods Pro get the deepest discounts: Premium models like AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods Max historically see the largest dollar-amount savings, sometimes $50-$80 off.
• Early deals start before Black Friday: Many retailers launch AirPod discounts in early November, giving savvy shoppers more chances to save.
• Stock can be limited: Popular models sell out quickly during Black Friday, so acting fast when you find a good deal is important.
• Bundle deals add value: Some retailers offer AirPods with Apple Music subscriptions, gift cards, or accessories as part of Black Friday promotions.
• Price tracking tools help: Using tools like CamelCamelCamel or Honey can help you verify if a Black Friday deal is actually the lowest price available.

The History of AirPod Black Friday Sales

To understand whether AirPods go on sale during Black Friday, it helps to look at the historical patterns. Since Apple first released AirPods in December 2016, Black Friday has become a reliable time to find these popular earbuds at reduced prices. Let’s explore how this trend has evolved over the years.

AirPod Black Friday Deal Patterns Since 2017

Starting in 2017, just one year after AirPods launched, retailers began offering modest discounts of around $10-$15 off. By 2018, as AirPods gained mainstream popularity, discounts grew to $20-$30 off. The 2019 and 2020 Black Friday seasons saw even more substantial savings, with AirPods Pro receiving discounts of $50-$70 off their retail price.

Think of it like a snowball rolling down a hill. As AirPods became more popular, retailers competed more aggressively to offer the best deals. This competition benefited consumers, driving discounts higher each year. By 2021, Black Friday AirPod deals had become some of the most anticipated tech promotions of the year.

Why Retailers Love Discounting AirPods

You might wonder why retailers would discount such a popular product. The answer is simple: AirPods are gateway products. When someone buys AirPods, they often need accessories like cases, charging cables, and ear tips. They might also be more likely to buy other Apple products in the future. Retailers can afford to discount AirPods because the ecosystem encourages additional purchases.

Did You Know? Apple’s accessories division, which includes AirPods, generated over $38 billion in revenue in 2023. That’s more revenue than many Fortune 500 companies generate in their entirety.

Which AirPod Models Get the Best Black Friday Deals?

Not all AirPod models receive equal discounts during Black Friday. Understanding which models typically see the deepest price drops can help you prioritize your shopping strategy.

AirPods Pro 2: The Premium Discount Champion

The AirPods Pro 2 consistently receives some of the most attractive Black Friday discounts. In 2022, they dropped to $199 from their $249 retail price. In 2023, some retailers offered them for as low as $189, representing a $60 savings. The AirPods Pro 2 are particularly popular during Black Friday because they’re Apple’s flagship earbuds with active noise cancellation, making them a premium gift option.

Imagine you’re shopping for a high-end gift. The AirPods Pro 2 at $189 instead of $249 means you’re getting $60 worth of bonus value. That’s enough to buy a nice case, an Apple Music subscription for several months, or even a small additional gift.

AirPods 3: The Middle-Ground Deal

The standard AirPods 3 typically see discounts of $30-$50 during Black Friday sales. While not as dramatic as AirPods Pro discounts, these savings are still significant. The AirPods 3 hit a sweet spot for many consumers, offering modern features at a more accessible price point than the Pro models.

Here’s a helpful analogy: If AirPods Pro 2 are like buying a premium smartphone, then AirPods 3 are like buying a mid-range phone that does 90% of what the premium one does. The Black Friday discount makes this mid-range option even more attractive.

AirPods 2: The Budget-Friendly Option

The AirPods 2, while no longer Apple’s newest model, still receive Black Friday discounts. These typically range from $30-$40 off, bringing the price down to around $89-$99. For shoppers on a tight budget or those buying gifts for multiple people, AirPods 2 Black Friday deals offer excellent value.

Think of AirPods 2 Black Friday deals like buying last year’s model car. You miss out on some newer features, but you get reliable performance at a significantly reduced price. Many users find that AirPods 2 meet all their needs perfectly.

AirPods Max: The Rare but Rewarding Discount

AirPods Max, being Apple’s premium over-ear headphones at $549, see less frequent but still notable Black Friday discounts. When they do go on sale, savings can range from $50-$100. These deals are rarer because the profit margins on AirPods Max are higher for retailers, and the product appeals to a more niche audience.

Did You Know? AirPods Max launched in December 2020, making them one of Apple’s longest-running current products. Their rarity in Black Friday ads makes finding a deal feel like discovering buried treasure.

Where to Find the Best AirPod Black Friday Deals

Knowing where to shop is just as important as knowing when to shop. Different retailers offer different advantages, and comparing prices across multiple stores is the key to getting the best deal.

Amazon: The Online Giant

Amazon consistently offers some of the most competitive AirPod Black Friday deals. The e-commerce giant often matches or beats competitors’ prices, and Prime members get the added benefit of fast, free shipping. Amazon’s Lightning Deals during Black Friday week can feature AirPods at surprisingly low prices, but these deals sell out fast.

Picture Amazon’s Black Friday AirPod section like a digital Black Friday doorbuster sale. The prices are real, the deals are legitimate, but you need to act quickly because quantities are limited. Setting up deal alerts and having your payment information ready can help you snag these deals before they’re gone.

One advantage of shopping on Amazon is the ability to see price history through tools like CamelCamelCamel. This browser extension shows you the highest and lowest prices for any product, helping you determine if a “Black Friday deal” is actually the best price available or just a minor discount off the regular price.

Best Buy: The Tech Specialist

Best Buy is another excellent source for AirPod Black Friday deals. As a tech-focused retailer, Best Buy often offers exclusive bundles that include accessories or gift cards with AirPod purchases. They also have a price match guarantee, meaning if you find a better price at a qualifying competitor, Best Buy will match it.

Best Buy’s Black Friday ads typically feature AirPods prominently, and they often release their deals earlier than other retailers. Their My Best Buy Plus and My Best Buy Total members sometimes get early access to deals, making membership potentially worthwhile for serious deal hunters.

Walmart: The Price Leader

Walmart is known for offering some of the lowest prices on consumer electronics, and AirPods are no exception. Walmart’s Black Friday deals often start online before the official Black Friday date, giving shoppers more opportunities to save. They also offer rollback prices throughout the holiday shopping season.

Walmart’s approach to Black Friday AirPod deals is like a competitive sport. They closely monitor competitors’ prices and adjust their own to stay competitive. This means if you find a great deal at another retailer, Walmart might match it or offer something similar within hours.

Target: The Circle of Deals

Target’s Black Friday AirPod deals are particularly attractive for Target Circle members, who often get exclusive discounts and early access to deals. Target also offers RedCard holders an additional 5% off, which can be stacked with Black Friday discounts for maximum savings.

Target’s Black Friday strategy includes both online and in-store deals. Their in-store experience can be less chaotic than other retailers, making it a good option for shoppers who prefer to see products in person before buying.

Apple Store: The Direct Source

While Apple’s own Black Friday deals are typically less dramatic than third-party retailers, they do offer gift cards with AirPod purchases during the holiday season. This isn’t a direct discount, but a $50-$100 Apple gift card with an AirPods Pro purchase effectively gives you that amount off future Apple purchases.

Apple’s Black Friday approach is like buying a car with a significant rebate. The sticker price might be the same, but the gift card effectively reduces your total spending if you plan to buy other Apple products anyway.

When Do AirPod Black Friday Deals Start?

Timing is crucial when shopping for AirPod Black Friday deals. Knowing when sales begin can help you plan your shopping strategy and avoid missing out on the best prices.

Early November: The Pre-Black Friday Window

Many retailers begin their Black Friday AirPod deals in early November, sometimes as early as the first week. These early deals are often part of “Black Friday提前” or “Early Black Friday” promotions designed to spread out the shopping rush and capture sales before competitors.

Starting your AirPod shopping in early November is like getting to the store before the crowds. You have more selection, less competition, and often the same prices you’ll see on actual Black Friday. However, some of the very best deals are reserved for Black Friday itself.

Black Friday Week: The Main Event

The Monday through Thursday before Black Friday is when most retailers release their official Black Friday ads and start offering the best deals. This is often called “Black Friday Week” and features daily deals that change or are restocked throughout the week.

During Black Friday Week, retailers typically release new AirPod deals each day, with the best offers usually appearing on Wednesday, Thursday, and Black Friday itself. This staggered approach keeps shoppers coming back and helps retailers manage inventory.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday: Peak Deal Days

Black Friday and Cyber Monday represent the peak of AirPod deal activity. While many deals are similar to those offered earlier in the week, some retailers reserve their absolute best prices for these two days. Cyber Monday deals tend to be online-only, while Black Friday deals may be available both online and in-store.

Did You Know? In 2023, Cyber Monday became the largest online shopping day in U.S. history, generating $12.4 billion in sales. AirPods were among the top-selling electronics items that day.

Post-Black Friday: The Leftover Deals

The week after Black Friday, often called “Cyber Week,” still features AirPod deals, though they may not be as attractive as the peak days. Stock may be limited for popular models, but if you missed earlier deals, this is your last chance to find significant discounts before prices return to normal in December.

Tips for Getting the Best AirPod Black Friday Deals

Finding great AirPod Black Friday deals requires more than just showing up on Black Friday. Here are proven strategies to help you save the most money.

Set a Budget and Stick to It

Before the Black Friday sales begin, decide how much you’re willing to spend on AirPods. The excitement of deals can lead to impulse purchases, so having a firm budget helps you make rational decisions. Remember that the cheapest deal isn’t always the best deal if it means buying a model you don’t actually want.

Think of your budget as a guardrail. It keeps you on the road even when the scenery (the deals) is tempting you to swerve. Decide in advance which AirPod model you want and how much you’ll pay, and don’t deviate from that plan unless you find a genuinely better opportunity.

Use Price Tracking Tools

Tools like CamelCamelCamel, Honey, and Keepa can help you track AirPod prices over time and alert you when prices drop. These tools are particularly useful for determining if a Black Friday deal is genuinely a good price or just a minor discount off the regular retail price.

Here’s an analogy: Price tracking tools are like having a crystal ball for shopping. They show you the past, present, and sometimes predicted future prices of products, helping you make informed decisions about when to buy.

Compare Prices Across Multiple Retailers

Don’t assume that the first deal you see is the best one. Prices for the same AirPod model can vary by $20-$50 across different retailers. Spending 10-15 minutes comparing prices can save you significant money.

Make a list of retailers you trust and check each one’s AirPod pricing on Black Friday morning. This might seem tedious, but the potential savings make it worthwhile. Some people create a simple spreadsheet to track prices and deals across retailers.

Check for Bundle Deals

Some retailers offer AirPod bundles that include accessories, Apple Music subscriptions, or gift cards. These bundles can provide better overall value than purchasing AirPods alone, especially if you were planning to buy accessories or subscriptions anyway.

For example, a retailer might offer AirPods Pro 2 with a $50 Apple gift card for $199. That’s effectively $50 off, plus you get the gift card for future Apple purchases. Compare this to another retailer selling the same AirPods for $189 with no gift card. The first option is actually better value if you’ll use the gift card.

Be Ready to Act Fast

The best AirPod Black Friday deals can sell out within minutes, especially online. Having your payment information saved, your shopping accounts logged in, and your browser ready can help you checkout quickly when you find a great deal.

Imagine you’re at an auction, and the perfect item comes up for bidding. You don’t want to be fumbling with your wallet while others are already raising their paddles. The same principle applies to Black Friday shopping. Preparation is the key to success.

Consider Refurbished or Open-Box Options

Some retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Apple offer certified refurbished or open-box AirPods at significant discounts. These products have been inspected, tested, and restored to full working condition, and they typically come with warranties.

Buying refurbished AirPods during Black Friday is like buying a slightly used car that’s been fully serviced. You get most of the benefits of a new product at a lower price, with the added security of a warranty.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shopping AirPod Black Friday Deals

Even experienced shoppers can make mistakes during the Black Friday rush. Here are common pitfalls to avoid.

Buying the Wrong Model

In the excitement of Black Friday shopping, it’s easy to accidentally buy the wrong AirPod model. Make sure you know exactly which model you want before the sales begin. AirPods 2, AirPods 3, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods Max are all different products with different features and price points.

Avoid this mistake by writing down the exact model name and number you want. For example, “AirPods Pro 2 with MagSafe Case (USB-C)” is very specific, while just “AirPods Pro” could refer to the original or second generation. Specificity prevents costly errors.

Ignoring Total Costs

The sticker price isn’t the only cost to consider. Factor in sales tax, shipping fees, and any accessories you might need. A deal that seems great at first glance might not be as attractive once you add all the associated costs.

For example, AirPods for $189 with free shipping and no sales tax is better than AirPods for $179 with $15 shipping and 8% sales tax. The first option saves you money despite the higher sticker price.

Falling for Fake Deals

Some retailers inflate their original prices before Black Friday so they can offer “discounts” that are actually just sales at the regular price. This is called “price anchoring” or “fake discounting,” and it’s more common than you might think.

Did You Know? A 2020 investigation found that 91% of Black Friday “deals” were actually available at the same or lower prices at other times during the year. This is why price tracking tools are so valuable.

Waiting Too Long for a “Better” Deal

While it’s smart to be patient, waiting too long for a better deal can backfire. If you see a genuinely good AirPod price during Black Friday week, it might be wise to buy it rather than hoping for an even lower price later. Stock can run out, and deals can disappear without warning.

Here’s a good rule of thumb: If the price is within $10-$15 of your target price and it’s a model you want, it’s probably worth buying. The small savings from waiting aren’t worth the risk of missing out entirely.

What to Do If You Miss Black Friday AirPod Deals

Don’t panic if you miss the Black Friday AirPod deals. There are still ways to save money on AirPods throughout the holiday season.

Cyber Monday and Cyber Week

Cyber Monday and the following week often feature deals similar to or identical to Black Friday. If you missed Black Friday, Cyber Monday is your next best opportunity. Many retailers extend their deals throughout the week, so you have multiple chances to save.

Holiday Season Sales

Throughout December, retailers continue offering deals on AirPods, though the discounts may not be as steep as Black Friday. If you’re shopping for a holiday gift, these December deals can still offer good value.

January Sales and Clearance

After the holiday season, retailers often clearance remaining inventory in January. This is when you can find the deepest discounts on older AirPod models, though selection may be limited. If you’re not picky about having the latest model, January sales can offer excellent value.

Student Discounts and Other Programs

Apple’s Education Store offers year-round discounts on AirPods for students, teachers, and education staff. While these discounts aren’t as large as Black Friday deals, they’re always available and can be combined with other promotions in some cases.

For example, a student might get AirPods Pro 2 for $199 through Apple’s Education Store year-round, which is the same price as typical Black Friday deals. This means students don’t have to wait for Black Friday to get good AirPod prices.

The Future of AirPod Black Friday Sales

As AirPods continue to evolve and new models are released, Black Friday deals will likely remain a fixture of the holiday shopping season. However, the specific deals and discounts may change based on several factors.

New Model Releases

When Apple releases new AirPod models, older versions typically see deeper discounts during Black Friday. If you’re not concerned about having the latest model, shopping for previous-generation AirPods during Black Friday can offer exceptional value.

This is similar to how smartphones and other electronics work. When the iPhone 15 launched, iPhone 14 prices dropped significantly. The same pattern applies to AirPods, with each new release creating opportunities for discounts on older models.

Market Competition

The wireless earbuds market has become increasingly competitive, with brands like Samsung, Sony, and Bose offering strong alternatives to AirPods. This competition may push retailers to offer even better AirPod deals to remain competitive, which is good news for consumers.

Sustainability and Refurbished Markets

As environmental concerns grow, the market for refurbished electronics is expanding. This trend may influence Black Friday AirPod deals, with more retailers offering certified refurbished options at attractive prices.

Did You Know? The refurbished electronics market is expected to reach $80 billion globally by 2030, up from approximately $40 billion in 2023. This growth means more options for budget-conscious AirPod shoppers.

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of AirPod Black Friday Deals

So, does AirPod go on sale during Black Friday? The answer is an emphatic yes, with reliable discounts across multiple models and retailers. AirPods have become a Black Friday staple, with retailers competing to offer the most attractive prices on these popular wireless earbuds.

To make the most of AirPod Black Friday deals, start your research early, know which model you want, set a budget, and use price tracking tools to identify genuine bargains. Compare prices across multiple retailers, and don’t forget to consider bundle deals and refurbished options for maximum value.

Remember that the best AirPod deal is the one that gets you the model you want at a price you’re comfortable paying. Whether that’s $89 for AirPods 2 or $189 for AirPods Pro 2, Black Friday offers opportunities to save money on these popular wireless earbuds.

As you prepare for this year’s Black Friday shopping, keep in mind that preparation and patience are your best allies. The deals will come, and with the strategies outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to find the perfect AirPod deal for your needs and budget. Happy deal hunting!

The combination of widespread availability, competitive pricing, and the cultural significance of AirPods makes Black Friday one of the best times of year to purchase these wireless earbuds. By following the tips and strategies in this guide, you can join the millions of satisfied shoppers who’ve saved money on AirPods during the Black Friday shopping event. Whether you’re buying for yourself or as a gift, Black Friday AirPod deals offer value that’s hard to beat at any other time of year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do AirPods really go on sale during Black Friday?

Yes, AirPods consistently go on sale during Black Friday every year. Major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target offer discounts ranging from $20 to $80 off depending on the model. These deals have been a Black Friday staple since 2017 and continue to be among the most popular tech promotions of the shopping season.

Which AirPod model gets the biggest Black Friday discount?

The AirPods Pro 2 typically receives the largest dollar-amount discount during Black Friday sales, often $50-$80 off the retail price. AirPods Max also see significant discounts of $50-$100 when they go on sale, though these deals are less frequent. AirPods 2 and AirPods 3 see more modest but still meaningful discounts of $30-$50 off.

When should I start shopping for AirPod Black Friday deals?

Many retailers start offering Black Friday AirPod deals in early November, with the main deals dropping during Black Friday week (the Monday through Thursday before Black Friday). The absolute best prices are typically available on Black Friday itself and Cyber Monday. Shopping early in the season often provides the same prices with less competition and better stock availability.

Where can I find the best AirPod Black Friday deals?

Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target are typically the best sources for AirPod Black Friday deals. Amazon often offers the most competitive prices, while Best Buy provides exclusive bundles and price matching. Apple also offers gift cards with AirPod purchases during the holiday season, which can provide additional value for future Apple purchases.

Are Black Friday AirPod deals really better than regular sales?

Generally, yes. Black Friday typically offers the deepest discounts of the year on AirPods, with prices 20-40% below regular retail. However, it’s worth using price tracking tools to verify that a “Black Friday deal” is genuinely a good price. Some retailers inflate their original prices before Black Friday, making the discounts appear larger than they actually are.

What should I do if I miss the Black Friday AirPod deals?

If you miss Black Friday deals, check Cyber Monday and Cyber Week sales, which often feature similar or identical discounts. You can also look for deals throughout December or wait for January clearance sales, where remaining inventory is often deeply discounted. Apple’s Education Store offers year-round student discounts that can match Black Friday pricing for eligible students and teachers.