AirPods
AirPods 5
Apple's open-fit earbuds, now with noise cancelling in every model, from $129.
It's brand new, so it won't be replaced any time soon.
At a glance
Our take
New in September 2026, and AirPods usually go about two years between models. At $129 with noise cancelling, they're a good-value pick if you don't like in-ear tips.
Research-based: we haven't tested this model ourselves. It's built from Apple's specs, published tests and owner reports.
Pros & cons
What's good
- Noise cancelling in every model
- Open-fit (no ear tips)
- $129 to start
What's not
- Shorter battery with noise cancelling (4 h)
- Open fit lets in more noise than Pro
People who find in-ear tips uncomfortable
You commute or fly a lot; AirPods Pro block more noise
Prices
| Model (Apple, US) | Price |
|---|---|
| AirPods 5 | $129 |
| With Wireless Charging Case | $149 |
Prices checked Nov 12, 2026. They can change at any time. How we get prices.
Ways to pay less
No cheaper options confirmed yet. We check prices regularly.
Key specs
How it compares
| This pageAirPods 5 | AirPods Pro 3 | AirPods Max 2 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price from | $129 | $249 | $549 |
| Verdict | Buy now | Buy now | Buy now |
| Chip | H2 | H2 | H2 |
| Battery | Up to 6 h (4 h with ANC); 20–22 h with case | Up to 8 h with ANC; 24 h with case | Up to 20 h with ANC |
| Weight | — | — | 386 g |
| Noise cancelling | Yes (open-ear) | Yes (in-ear) | Yes |
More comparisons
What's next?
Nothing credible yet
We haven't seen a reliable report of a replacement in the next six months.
How we worked out "Buy now"
Latest news
Software
New AirPods firmware 9B47 rolls out for five models
Apple released firmware 9B47 for AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Pro 3, AirPods 4, AirPods 5 and AirPods Max 2, described only as bug fixes and improvements. It installs automatically while the AirPods are charging near a connected Apple device.
Products
Source: MacRumors
LaunchiPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch Series 12, Ultra 4 and AirPods 5 hit storesThe September lineup went on sale worldwide nine days after the event. iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199 and 18 Pro Max at $1,299; there was no standard iPhone 18 this year.
Launch
iPhone 18 Pro, Apple Watch Series 12, Ultra 4 and AirPods 5 hit stores
The September lineup went on sale worldwide nine days after the event. iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199 and 18 Pro Max at $1,299; there was no standard iPhone 18 this year.
Products
Source: Apple Newsroom
LaunchAirPods 5 bring open-ear noise cancellation from $129AirPods 5 add active noise cancellation to the open-ear design at $129, or $149 with a wireless charging case. That is cheaper than the old AirPods 4 with ANC at $179, making them a strong value pick.Launch
AirPods 5 bring open-ear noise cancellation from $129
AirPods 5 add active noise cancellation to the open-ear design at $129, or $149 with a wireless charging case. That is cheaper than the old AirPods 4 with ANC at $179, making them a strong value pick.
Products
Source: Apple Newsroom
Questions people ask
Should I buy the AirPods 5 now?
Buy now. It's brand new, so it won't be replaced any time soon.
How much does the AirPods 5 cost?
Apple sells it from $129 in the US (AirPods 5: $129, With Wireless Charging Case: $149).
When will the AirPods 5 be replaced?
We haven't seen a credible report of a replacement in the next six months.
Who is the AirPods 5 best for?
People who find in-ear tips uncomfortable. Skip it if you commute or fly a lot; AirPods Pro block more noise.
Sources
- Apple tech specs (checked Nov 12, 2026)
- Apple Newsroom announcement (checked Nov 12, 2026)
Page updated Nov 12, 2026 · Spotted an error? Tell us.