Angela Lang/CNET
Apple’s big 2019 launch event is now over. And if you were delaying an AirPods purchase in anticipation of a new model with active noise cancellation or those rumored over-ear noise-canceling headphones, you’ll probably have to continue to wait until 2020.
That noted, the current-generation AirPods (with the nifty wireless charging case) have been selling at a discount for months — usually $10 off Apple’s $199 list price. For a few weeks in August, they dipped to $155. At the moment, Amazon, B&H and others are offering them for $170.
Though it’s hard to find brand-new first-gen AirPods at this point, there are other wireless headphones in Apple’s portfolio available for under list price, too. The PowerBeats3 Wireless headphones cost $200 when you buy from Apple, but Walmart has them for $91. And the $200 Beats Solo3 headphones are currently available at Best Buy for $130.
Read more: AirPods vs. Powerbeats Pro: The best wireless earphones are… | The best-sounding true wireless headphones of 2019
One thing to consider: Apple offers free custom engraving on all AirPods cases when you buy from it directly. You’ll get no such offer from third-party retailers such as Amazon.
Apple AirPods and Beats wireless headphones discounts, compared
| Model | List price | Best price (current) | Best price (all-time) |
|---|---|---|---|
| AirPods (2nd gen) | $159 | $145 | $140 |
| AirPods (2nd gen) with wireless charging case | $199 | $170 | $155 |
| Wireless charging case | $79 | $69 | $69 |
| Beats Solo3 | $200 | $130 | $130 |
| PowerBeats3 Wireless | $200 | $91 | $90 |
| BeatsX | $100 | $80 | $80 |
Note that CNET may get a share of revenue from the sale of the products featured on this page.
Apple AirPods (2nd gen) discounts
Apple AirPods with standard charging case: $145 (save $14).
Apple AirPods with wireless charging case: $170 (save $30).
Apple wireless charging case (case only, no AirPods): $69 (save $10). Note that Amazon is currently out of stock but will still allow you to purchase at the sale price.
Beats wireless headphones and earbuds discounts
Beats Solo3: $130 (save $70)
PowerBeats3: $91 (save $109).
BeatsX: $80 (save $20).
Watch this:
Powerbeats Pro vs. AirPods 2: which one to choose?
3:16
Originally published last month. Regularly updated to reflect new sale prices.
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