How To Know Which AirPods You Have?
Confused about which generation of AirPods you own? Here’s how to know which AirPods you have: quickly identify your model by checking the charging case, the AirPods themselves, or your connected device’s settings.
Introduction: The AirPods Lineup and Why It Matters
Apple’s AirPods have revolutionized the personal audio experience. From the original AirPods to the sophisticated AirPods Max, each generation offers unique features and capabilities. Knowing how to know which AirPods you have is crucial for several reasons:
- Ensuring compatibility with accessories like charging cases or ear tips.
- Troubleshooting issues effectively and finding relevant support documentation.
- Accurately assessing trade-in value or selling your AirPods.
- Understanding the features your specific model offers, such as spatial audio or active noise cancellation.
Identifying Your AirPods: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process of identifying your AirPods involves examining several key areas: the charging case, the AirPods themselves, and your connected device’s settings. Here’s a breakdown of each method:
Examining the Charging Case
The charging case is often the easiest place to start your identification process.
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Locate the Model Number: Look for a small, faint model number printed on the inside of the charging case lid. You may need good lighting or a magnifying glass. This model number is your key to unlocking the mystery.
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Consult the Table: Match the model number you find to the table below to identify your AirPods generation.
Model Number AirPods Generation Charging Case Type A1602 AirPods (1st Generation) Wired Charging Case A1938 AirPods (2nd Generation) Wireless Charging Case A2032, A2031 AirPods (2nd Generation) Wired Charging Case (later revision) A2032, A2031 AirPods (3rd Generation) MagSafe Charging Case A2566 AirPods (3rd Generation) Lightning Charging Case A2569 AirPods Pro (1st Generation) Wireless Charging Case A2700 AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) MagSafe Charging Case (USB-C or Lightning) A2904, A2906 AirPods Max Smart Case -
Case Features: Note the presence or absence of wireless charging, MagSafe compatibility, and the charging port type (Lightning or USB-C).
Examining the AirPods Themselves
If the model number on the case is unreadable, you can also check the AirPods themselves.
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Locate the Model Number: Each AirPod has a model number printed on it, usually near the bottom stem or on the inner surface. Again, good lighting and magnification may be necessary.
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Consult the Table (Again!): Use the same table as above to match the model number to your AirPods generation. The same model number will be present on both the charging case and the individual AirPods (except for AirPods Max, which have their own distinct number).
Checking Your Connected Device
Your iPhone, iPad, or Mac can also help you identify your AirPods.
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iPhone/iPad (iOS/iPadOS):
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap Bluetooth.
- Find your AirPods in the list of connected devices.
- Tap the “i” icon (information) next to your AirPods’ name.
- Look for the Model Number. The name of the AirPods, if unchanged, will often also indicate the generation (e.g., “AirPods Pro”).
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Mac (macOS):
- Click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner.
- Select System Settings (or System Preferences in older macOS versions).
- Click Bluetooth.
- Find your AirPods in the list of devices.
- Right-click (or Control-click) on your AirPods and select Show More Info…
- Look for the Model Number.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing Similar Models: The difference between AirPods (2nd Generation) and AirPods (3rd Generation) can be subtle. Pay close attention to the charging case and the earbud design.
- Relying Solely on Appearance: While the overall design provides clues, always verify the model number for accurate identification.
- Ignoring the Case: Even if you primarily use your AirPods, the charging case holds crucial information. Don’t neglect this step.
- Assuming AirPods Pro Based on Noise Cancellation: Noise cancellation is a key feature of AirPods Pro (both generations) and AirPods Max, but verifying the model number is still essential.
AirPods Summary Table
Here is a table summarizing key characteristics across different AirPod generations for easy reference.
| Feature | AirPods (1st Gen) | AirPods (2nd Gen) | AirPods (3rd Gen) | AirPods Pro (1st Gen) | AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) | AirPods Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Design | Iconic ‘stem’ | Iconic ‘stem’ | Contoured, shorter ‘stem’ | In-ear with silicone tips | In-ear with silicone tips | Over-ear |
| Chip | W1 | H1 | H1 | H1 | H2 | H1 |
| Noise Cancelling | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Spatial Audio | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | Optional | Optional | Standard | Standard | Standard | No Wireless Charging |
FAQs
Can I identify my AirPods if I lost the charging case?
While it’s more challenging, yes. Check the model number printed on each AirPod itself. It’s usually located near the bottom of the stem.
What if the model number on my case is worn off?
Try using the Bluetooth settings on your connected device to find the model number. If that fails, you may need to contact Apple Support for assistance. Providing details about when and where you purchased the AirPods might help them identify the model.
How can I tell the difference between AirPods Pro (1st and 2nd Generation)?
The easiest way is to look at the charging case. The AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) case has a speaker at the bottom and a lanyard loop on the side. Also, the 2nd gen AirPods Pro offer Personalized Spatial Audio, which can be confirmed in settings.
Are the serial numbers and model numbers the same thing?
No, they are different. The serial number is a unique identifier for your specific set of AirPods, while the model number identifies the generation and type of AirPods.
Can I use the serial number to find the model number?
Yes, you can. Enter the serial number on Apple’s Check Coverage website (checkcoverage.apple.com). This will show you information about your device, including the model.
Why is it important to know which AirPods I have before buying replacement parts?
AirPods accessories, such as ear tips and charging cases, are not always compatible across different generations. Knowing your model ensures you purchase the correct replacements.
Do fake AirPods have model numbers?
Counterfeit AirPods may have fake or invalid model numbers. Always purchase from authorized retailers to avoid receiving counterfeit products. Check for inconsistencies in packaging and build quality.
Is there an app to identify my AirPods?
While there’s no official Apple app specifically for identification, some third-party apps claim to offer this functionality. However, their accuracy can vary, so it’s best to rely on the methods outlined above.
I have ‘AirPods’ listed in my Bluetooth settings, but no further details. How do I find out which generation they are?
Tap the “i” icon (for iPhone/iPad) or right-click and select “Show More Info…” (for Mac) next to your AirPods in the Bluetooth settings. This should display the model number, allowing you to identify the generation.
My AirPods are showing up as ‘Headphones’ in Bluetooth settings. Is something wrong?
This can sometimes happen, especially if the AirPods haven’t been properly paired or named. Re-pairing your AirPods might resolve the issue. The key is to still locate the “i” or “More Info…” button to see the model number.
What if I find two different model numbers on my AirPods and the charging case?
This usually indicates that the AirPods and the charging case were originally from different sets. It’s important to identify them separately to understand their individual capabilities.
Can I tell which AirPods I have based on the sound quality?
While there are differences in sound quality across AirPods generations (with newer models generally offering improved audio), it’s not a reliable method for definitive identification. Visual inspection of the model number is always preferable. This helps how to know which AirPods you have.