Best AirPods (2026): Which Apple headphones should you buy?

If you’ve never used AirPods before, or it’s been a while since you upgraded, I’m here to help! Here are some answers to common questions, from what kind of features you can expect to how to clean your headphones.

Do AirPods work with Android?

Yes, you can use AirPods with non-Apple devices, because they use the standard Bluetooth protocol. But you’ll lose features like Siri integration, device switching, and the ability to customize shortcuts or adjust software features. In contrast, Beats headphones offer a mix of Apple-compatible and Android features, including a dedicated Android app and features like one-touch pairing.

Can you buy one AirPod?

Yes! If you lose your AirPod, you can purchase a replacement for your right or left AirPod through Apple. AppleCare+ doesn’t cover lost or stolen AirPods, so it will cost you. You can use Apple’s Get Estimate tool to calculate the likely cost. The same applies if you lose the charging case. Your replacements will be new versions.

Why does only one AirPod work?

If you can’t hear sound on one AirPod, make sure the case is fully charged. Connect the case, then place both AirPods in the case and charge for at least 30 seconds. Next, open the charging case and use your iPhone or iPad to check that each AirPod is charged. Place both AirPods in your ears and test the sound. If that doesn’t work, you can try resetting your AirPods.

Why won’t my AirPods case charge?

Start by checking your connections. If you have AirPods or AirPods Pro, make sure the case is fully plugged in or properly placed on the wireless charger (use Apple cables or Magsafe chargers if possible). Allow your AirPods to charge for at least 15 minutes. If you have AirPods Max, allow them to charge for at least five minutes. Next, open the case and hold it close to your iPhone or iPad. You should then see the charging icon appear when you look at the battery status. If that doesn’t work, contact Apple Support.

If you lose your AirPod, can you find its location?

If you have AirPods 3 (or later), AirPods Pro (all versions), and AirPods Max, you can track your AirPods using the Find My app. First, make sure Find My is turned on by going to your device’s Settings app, tapping your AirPods, and scrolling down to Find My. If it’s already on, go to the Find My app and, under the Devices tab, tap your AirPods. From there, you will see the exact location of both your left bud and your right bud. If you’re nearby, you can also tap Click on the sound To listen to the beeps. If you have AirPods Pro (2nd generation) or later with an iPhone 11 or later, you can also use Resolution to search.

If your AirPods show “No Location Found” or “Offline,” it means they’re out of range or need to charge, so you’ll only see their last known location. At this point, you may be able to get directions, but you won’t be able to use Find Nearby or play a sound. You’ll receive a notification on your Apple device if they’re back online.

Can you clean AirPods?

Yes. You can use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe down your AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max. But there are other additional steps you can take, depending on what type of AirPods you have. Apple has steps on how to properly clean each version here, and we also have a full guide on how to clean your earbuds.

Why won’t my AirPods connect to my device?

If your AirPods can’t connect, you should start by checking that your iPhone, iPad, and Mac are updated to the latest version of their operating systems. Next, make sure both AirPods are charged, and Bluetooth is turned on (Settings > Bluetooth), and double-check that your AirPods appear in your device list via Settings and are selected. If it’s not in the list, press and hold the button on the back of the charging case until the status light flashes and follow the on-screen instructions.

How to get rid of crackling or static sounds in AirPods Pro?

If you’re hearing crackling or static sounds from your AirPods Pro, make sure you’re running the latest software. You should also check that your connected device is nearby and that there is no wireless interference or obstacles between you and your iPhone, iPad, or Mac (such as walls or floors, too much Wi-Fi activity, wireless speakers, etc.). If none of these are issues, try listening to the audio from a different app to see if the app is causing the issue.

Why isn’t Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) working?

Double-check that you are running the latest software version on your Apple devices. When both AirPods Pro are in your ears, make sure you have Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) turned on by swiping down to open Control Center on your iPhone or iPad. Then, while wearing your AirPods, touch and hold the volume slider for additional controls, then tap the Listening Mode button. Through them you can adjust the modes. You should also check that Adaptive Audio is turned on. Helps clean microphone and speaker since earwax and debris can build up over time.

Can you turn off Siri notifications?

Yes, if you don’t want Siri to read text messages and other notifications annoyingly loudly while you’re trying to listen to music or podcasts, you can turn them off. Just open the Settings app, tap Siri or Apple Intelligence & Siri, then tap Notification Announcement. Then turn off notification advertising.