How to Tell Which AirPods You Have: 3 Fool-Proof Methods (2024)

Recognize your AirPods model easily with this quick and easy guide.

Apple has consistently released AirPods models every two to three years, and there are now six different AirPods models to choose from: AirPods (1st, 2nd, & 3rd Gen), AirPods Pro (1 & 2), and AirPods Max.

However, this number of options can also lead to confusion, as users may find it challenging to identify which specific model they own, especially with the subtle design differences between each model.

Read on as we demystify how to identify your AirPods models in only three ways below!

1. Find the Model Number

Apple assigns unique model numbers to each AirPods variant, which allows you to identify your AirPods’ generation.

Here’s a table listing the AirPods variants and their model numbers:

AirPods model numbers function as ID numbers, distinguishing Apple’s products and simplifying service procedures.

There are two ways to go about this:

• Via the AirPods: The model number is the first line of text underneath your AirPod head.

  

• Via the iOS settings: Connect your AirPods then open Settings > Bluetooth > ‘i’ icon beside your AirPods name, and look for the model number.

  

2. Check the Serial Number

The serial number is a unique number Apple assigns to each product to differentiate it from others.

The serial number is unique to an individual product (in this case, your AirPods), but the model number helps identify the type of product you have from Apple (whether AirPods, AirPods Pro, or AirPods Max). You can think of the serial number as the fingerprint of AirPods, while the model number is the specie.

This helps in warranty and version management. But, you can also use it to identify your AirPods’ model. Here’s how:

1. Find your AirPods’ serial number printed on the underside of your AirPods, below the speaker heads.

   You can also find it printed under the lid of your AirPods’ charging case.

   

2. Go to Apple’s Device Coverage page and type in your AirPods’ serial number.
3. Wait for it to load to show you your AirPods’ warranty and model.

3. Identify the Physical Differences Between Each Model

Apple AirPods come in 3 different types: AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max.

AirPods, as earbuds, are designed to rest on your open ear structure rather than dig into your ear canal. So, they do not have replaceable ear tips.

AirPods 1 and 2 (1st and 2nd generation) are nearly indistinguishable with their long stems and similar appearance, while AirPods 3 (3rd generation) have shorter stems, a more rounded design, and different sensor technology.

AirPods Pro, on the other hand, are structured to go right into your ear canal as they’re in-ear monitors (IEMs). They have a protruded upperside to seal off the ear and provide a more immersive user experience.

In terms of physical appearance, the various generations of AirPods Pro may appear almost identical, differing only slightly in venting and sharing a consistent weight of approximately 5.4 grams per earbud.Then, there are the AirPods Max, designed to cover your whole ear, hence being “over-ear” headphones.

MagSafe or Wired: How to Identify Your AirPod Charging Case

Apple offers several types of AirPods charging cases, including the Lightning Charging Case, Wireless Charging Case, AirPods Pro Charging Case, MagSafe Charging Case for AirPods, and MagSafe Charging Case for AirPods Pro.

Just like your AirPods, you can identify your AirPod charging case via the model number.

To check your case’ model number, flip your charging case open. You’ll find the case’s model number written on the underside of the lid. Next, compare that model number to our table below to find the type of AirPods case you own.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How many AirPod generations are there?
• What is the difference between AirPods 1, 2 and 3?
• How do you verify AirPods are real?
• What’s the difference between MagSafe and Wireless AirPods Charger?

How many AirPod generations are there?

There are three generations of standard AirPods: the original AirPods, AirPods (2nd Generation), and AirPods (3rd Generation). Additionally, there are two generations of AirPods Pro, with the AirPods Max being a separate product

What is the difference between AirPods 1, 2 and 3?

AirPods 2 improved audio, voice quality, and added voice-activated Siri over AirPods 1.

AirPods 3 introduced a new design, better sensors, more touch controls, IPX4 rating for water and sweat resistance, spatial audio support, MagSafe charging case, and an extra hour of playtime on a 15-minute recharge compared to earlier models.

How do you verify AirPods are real?

In iOS 16, a new feature was introduced to verify the authenticity of AirPods. If your AirPods are not original Apple products, a pop-up message saying “Cannot verify AirPods” will appear on your device

For more ways to check your AirPods’ validity, visit our article on how to tell if AirPods are fake.

What’s the difference between MagSafe and Wireless AirPods Charger?

MagSafe AirPods magnetically attach to Apple’s chargers for a secure wireless charge, while regular wireless charging AirPods use a Qi-compatible method without magnetic attachment. MagSafe ensures a better connection with Apple’s charging accessories, making charging a bit more convenient.