If you’ve ever found yourself staring at your AirPods wondering exactly which model you own, you’re not alone. With Apple releasing multiple generations across different product lines—standard AirPods, AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, and various charging case configurations—figuring out which version you have can feel like solving a puzzle.
Knowing your exact AirPods model matters more than you might think. Whether you’re shopping for replacement accessories, troubleshooting a technical issue, checking warranty coverage, or considering an upgrade, identifying your specific model ensures you get the right information and compatible products. The differences between generations aren’t always obvious to the naked eye, but they can significantly impact features, performance, and accessory compatibility.
The Fastest Way: Check Your iPhone or iPad Settings
The quickest and most reliable method to identify your AirPods is through your connected Apple device. This approach works whether you have an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, and it takes less than a minute.
For iPhone and iPad users:
- Make sure your AirPods are connected to your device via Bluetooth
- Open the Settings app
- Tap “Bluetooth”
- Find your AirPods in the list of connected devices
- Tap the information icon (small “i” in a circle) next to your AirPods name
- Look for the “Model Number” field—it will start with the letter A followed by four digits
According to Apple’s official support documentation, this method works on devices running iOS 14 or later. If you’re using an older iOS version (iOS 13 or earlier), the process is slightly different: go to Settings > General > About, scroll down until you see your AirPods name, then tap it to reveal the model number.
For Mac users:
- Click the Apple menu and select System Settings
- Click “Bluetooth”
- Locate your AirPods in the devices list
- Click the information button next to your AirPods
- The model number will be displayed in the device information
Once you have that model number, you can match it against the comprehensive list below to determine exactly which AirPods you own.
Method 2: Physical Inspection of the AirPods
If your AirPods aren’t currently connected to a device, or if you prefer to check directly on the hardware itself, you can find the model number printed on the AirPods themselves. Fair warning: this requires good lighting and possibly a magnifying glass, as the text is quite small.
For AirPods and AirPods Pro (earbud styles):
Look at the underside of each AirPod near the base of the stem. You’ll see very small gray text that includes the model number in the format A#### (the letter A followed by four numbers). The model number appears alongside the serial number, so make sure you’re reading the right set of digits.
As noted in Apple’s identification guide, each individual AirPod has its own model number printed on it. For most models, the left and right AirPods will have slightly different model numbers (typically differing by one digit).
For AirPods Max:
The process is different for Apple’s over-ear headphones. Remove the left ear cushion by gently pulling it away from the ear cup. The model number is printed on the inside where the cushion attaches to the headband connection point.
Method 3: Check the Charging Case
Your AirPods charging case also contains identification information. Open the lid of your charging case and look at the inside surface of the lid near the hinge. You’ll find both the model number and serial number printed in small text.
The charging case model number can help you identify not only which generation of AirPods you have but also what type of charging capabilities your case supports. This becomes particularly important when you’re shopping for replacement cases or wireless charging accessories.
According to multiple tech resources, the charging case identification is especially useful when you’ve inherited AirPods from someone else or bought them secondhand, as the case design can help narrow down the generation even before you check the model number.
Method 4: Use Apple’s Check Coverage Tool
If you have your serial number but want additional confirmation about your AirPods model, Apple provides a handy online tool. Visit Apple’s Check Coverage page and enter your serial number (found in the same locations as the model number—either in your device settings or printed on the AirPods/case).
After entering the serial number and completing the verification, you’ll see a page displaying your AirPods model name, purchase date (if registered), and warranty status. This method is particularly useful if you’re buying used AirPods and want to verify the seller’s claims before completing the purchase.
Complete AirPods Model Number Reference
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of every AirPods model released to date, with their corresponding model numbers. This information comes directly from Apple’s official support pages and has been verified across multiple authoritative sources.
AirPods (1st Generation) – Released 2016
- Model Numbers: A1523 (left), A1722 (right)
- Features: Original wireless earbuds with W1 chip, up to 5 hours battery life
- Charging Case: A1602 (Lightning only, LED inside case)
AirPods (2nd Generation) – Released 2019
- Model Numbers: A2032 (left), A2031 (right)
- Features: H1 chip, “Hey Siri” support, improved connectivity
- Charging Cases: A1602 (Lightning) or A1938 (Wireless Charging, LED on front)
- Design: Identical to 1st generation externally
AirPods (3rd Generation) – Released 2021
- Model Numbers: A2565 (left), A2564 (right)
- Features: Shorter stems, spatial audio, IPX4 water resistance, 6-hour battery life
- Charging Cases: A2897 (Lightning) or A2566 (MagSafe)
- Design: Shorter stems similar to AirPods Pro but without silicone tips
AirPods (4th Generation) – Released 2024
- Standard Model Numbers: A3056 (left), A3057 (right), A3055
- ANC Model Numbers: A3053 (left), A3054 (right), A3050
- Features: H2 chip, redesigned fit, USB-C charging, IP54 dust resistance
- The ANC variant includes active noise cancellation and wireless charging with speaker
According to recent industry reports, the 4th generation marked a significant shift in Apple’s product strategy by offering two distinct versions at different price points.
AirPods Pro (1st Generation) – Released 2019
- Model Numbers: A2084 (left), A2083 (right)
- Features: Silicone ear tips, active noise cancellation, transparency mode, H1 chip
- Charging Cases: A2190 (can be Lightning or MagSafe—check serial number ending)
- Serial endings: 0C6L or LKKT indicate original Lightning case
AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) – Released 2022
- Model Numbers: A2931, A2699 (left), A2698 (right)
- Features: H2 chip, improved ANC, adaptive audio, 6-hour battery life
- Charging Cases: A2700 (MagSafe Lightning) or A2968 (MagSafe USB-C)
- Case features: Built-in speaker for Find My, lanyard loop
The 2023 USB-C revision maintained the same core features while updating the charging port to align with Apple’s broader transition away from Lightning connectors.
AirPods Pro (3rd Generation) – Released 2025
- Model Numbers: A3063, A3064, A3065
- Features: Heart rate sensor, 4x better noise cancellation than original Pro, live translation, hearing aid capabilities
- Charging Case: A3122 (MagSafe USB-C with speaker and lanyard loop)
- New ear tip design: Five sizes including XXS, with foam interior layer
AirPods Max – Released 2020
- Model Number: A2096
- Features: Over-ear design, H1 chip in each cup, Digital Crown, premium materials
- Available with Lightning charging case initially
- USB-C version: A3184 (released 2024)
Visual Identification: Quick Recognition Guide
Sometimes you don’t need the exact model number—you just want to know which generation you’re dealing with. Here are some visual cues that can help you identify your AirPods at a glance.
Standard AirPods Physical Differences:
The most noticeable visual change across standard AirPods generations is the stem length. 1st and 2nd generation AirPods have longer stems extending down from the earbud. The 3rd and 4th generation models feature noticeably shorter stems, similar in length to the AirPods Pro.
If your AirPods have hard plastic tips (no removable silicone), they’re standard AirPods, not Pro models. The charging case design also offers clues: if the LED light is inside the case (only visible when open), you likely have 1st generation AirPods. If the LED is on the front of the case, you have 2nd generation or newer.
AirPods Pro Identification:
All AirPods Pro models feature removable silicone ear tips in multiple sizes, which immediately distinguishes them from standard AirPods. The stems are shorter than original AirPods but became even more compact with the Pro 3 generation.
According to Apple’s technical specifications, Pro 2 cases added a built-in speaker on the bottom for Find My alerts—if your case can play sounds even when the AirPods aren’t inside, you have Pro 2 or newer. Pro 3 cases feature IP57 water resistance and the most recent Ultra Wideband chip for precise location tracking.
Charging Case Indicators:
The charging port location and type provides valuable information. All AirPods through mid-2023 used Lightning ports. Newer models have transitioned to USB-C. The presence of a lanyard loop on the side of the case indicates AirPods Pro 2 or Pro 3. If your case can attach magnetically to MagSafe chargers, you have a MagSafe-compatible model (available from AirPods 3, AirPods Pro 1 onward, and all AirPods 4 variants).
Why Your AirPods Model Matters
Understanding which AirPods you own has several practical implications beyond simple curiosity.
Accessory Compatibility: Not all AirPods cases and ear tips work across generations. AirPods Pro ear tips, for instance, use generation-specific connectors. While Pro 1 and Pro 2 ear tips are physically compatible, Apple notes that the Pro 2 tips use less dense mesh for improved audio quality. Purchasing the wrong charging case or accessories can result in compatibility issues or reduced functionality.
Software Features: Newer AirPods models require specific iOS, iPadOS, or macOS versions to access their full feature set. AirPods Pro 3’s heart rate monitoring and live translation features require iOS 26 or later. If you’re troubleshooting why certain advertised features aren’t working, your device’s software version might be the limiting factor.
Resale Value: Different generations command different prices on the secondary market. An accurate model identification ensures you’re paying fair market value when buying used, or that you’re pricing your AirPods appropriately when selling.
Warranty and Service: Apple’s warranty coverage varies by purchase date and product registration. Knowing your exact model helps you determine if you’re still covered for service or eligible for any active replacement programs.
Common Questions About AirPods Identification
Can I mix and match AirPods from different generations?
No, individual AirPods from different generations cannot be paired together. Each generation has specific firmware and hardware requirements. Even within the same generation, left and right AirPods are technically slightly different (note the different model numbers) and must come from the same generation to function as a pair.
Do fake AirPods have model numbers?
Counterfeit AirPods often include model numbers to appear authentic, but they won’t verify correctly through Apple’s systems. If you enter the serial number on Apple’s Check Coverage page and receive an error or incorrect information, you likely have counterfeit products.
Why does my iPhone show the wrong AirPods model?
This occasionally happens with firmware updates or when switching between different AirPods. Try forgetting the device in Bluetooth settings and re-pairing. For AirPods Pro 3 specifically, some users initially experienced display issues showing “Pro 2” until a firmware update resolved it—this required iOS 26 to correct.
Are older AirPods still supported?
Apple typically supports AirPods for several years with software updates, but older models eventually lose access to newer features. For instance, 1st generation AirPods still work as basic Bluetooth headphones but don’t support many features available to newer models. The company continues to sell AirPods 2nd and 3rd generation alongside newer releases, ensuring ongoing support for these models.
Shopping for AirPods and Accessories
Once you’ve identified your AirPods model, you can confidently shop for compatible accessories and replacement parts. The most commonly needed items include:
Replacement Ear Tips: If you have AirPods Pro, replacement ear tips in multiple sizes ensure optimal fit and noise isolation. Different generations have slightly different designs, so verify compatibility before purchasing.
Charging Cases: Lost or damaged charging cases can be replaced individually. Make sure to match your specific AirPods generation when shopping for replacements, as cases are not universally compatible across all models.
Protective Cases: Silicone or hard shell protective cases help prevent damage from drops and everyday wear. Case dimensions vary slightly between generations, so check that the protective case specifically lists your model.
Wireless Chargers: If you have a wireless charging-compatible case, a Qi-certified wireless charger offers convenient cable-free charging. MagSafe-compatible models can also use MagSafe chargers for aligned, efficient charging.
Final Thoughts
Identifying your AirPods model doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you check through your iPhone settings (the fastest method), inspect the physical model numbers on your AirPods or charging case, or use Apple’s online verification tool, you can determine your exact model in just a few minutes.
The model number unlocks access to generation-specific troubleshooting resources, ensures you purchase compatible accessories, and helps you understand which features your particular AirPods support. As Apple continues to expand the AirPods lineup with new generations and variants, this identification process becomes even more valuable.
Keep your AirPods’ model number noted somewhere accessible—perhaps in your phone’s notes app or with your purchase documentation. You’ll thank yourself later when you need to order replacement parts, contact Apple Support, or simply want to compare your current model against newer releases to decide if an upgrade makes sense.
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