Apple sold an estimated 60 million AirPods in 2019, and that was well in advance of this latest 2020 launch of the new AirPods Pro. So if your original AirPods are looking a little dull next to the newer versions, you’re certainly not alone!
But at their high price point, it’s tough to see AirPods as disposable. While you won’t recoup your original price, nor can you expect to make enough to afford the new Airpods Pro, a smart sale of your used AirPods can net you enough to offset part of the purchase, as well as any lingering guilt over the upgrade.
Keep reading for a handy guide to putting your used AirPods for sale.
Removing Your Used AirPods From Your Devices
When you’re ready to sell your used Apple AirPods, you’ll want to first unpair them from devices like your iPhone or iPad. This can help prevent your devices from searching for them to connect in the future, and it can also keep you from confusing your old pair with any new headphones you buy, especially if you’re considering springing for the latest model.
First, you can set your AirPods to offline by placing them in their charging case. Next, log in to iCloud.com, where you’ll head to “Find My iPhone.” From there, click “All Devices” and then “AirPods.”
From here, you should see an option to remove your AirPods from your account. If you don’t, you may simply need to click the “AirPods” option toward the top center of the screen. There should be an “X” beside this option, and clicking it will remove the AirPods from your device’s memories.
Cleaning Your AirPods
If you’re going to sell your old AirPods, you’ll want to make sure they’re clean from your use. This can help you sell them at a higher price in some cases, as a buyer is much more likely to believe they’re in good condition if they look as clean and glossy as they did when you first brought them home.
It’s important to note that Apple has some specific requirements and recommendations for cleaning AirPods and EarPods on its website, including the use of a 70% isopropyl alcohol or Clorox wipe.
Note that you should never use any other solutions or water to clean your devices, as they are not water-resistant. The last thing you want to do is damage your devices just when you’re primed to sell them!
You can only use the cleaning wipes on certain parts of the exterior service, but never on the speaker mesh. Don’t forget to also wipe down your charging case while you’re at it, including the inside.
Apple recommends not using sharp objects to clean your AirPods themselves. However, depending on the amount of debris, you may want to grab a toothpick to gently clear away any buildup. Once you’re finished, leave all components out to air dry.
If you have a phone cleaning tool that disinfects devices using UV light, now is a good time to use that as well.
Where to Trade In
If you’re looking to trade in your AirPods, you can expect to earn significantly less money than you would by selling outright. Companies like Amazon will buy them for around $30, provided that they power on. In some cases, you may also be able to trade in broken, defective, or even cracked AirPods, though you’ll receive just a few dollars for the trade.
These options may be worth considering if your pair is inoperable or in poor condition, or if you don’t care about the amount of money you’re getting. However, if your devices are in decent condition, some options for outright sale may earn you more money than a trade-in could, and just as fast.
Where to Sell
While your first instinct may be to turn to Apple, selling your used AirPods back to their original source, Apple’s trade-in program isn’t an option here. The program doesn’t buy old AirPods, as they deteriorate too rapidly for the company to resell.
Another option is to list your used pair for sale yourself through services like eBay or Facebook Marketplace, where you may get about $50 for them. However, these markets tend to be oversaturated with these devices in many areas, and you’ll have to deal with additional fees as well as lowball offers and scams.
For the easiest option, we’ll take those deteriorated AirPods off your hands at a great price. This can be much easier and more straightforward, allowing you to sell fast without waiting for buyers to bite.
Tips for Selling Your AirPods
Depending on what option you choose for selling, you may be able to tweak the amount of money you earn by selling the AirPods separately from their charging case.
In some cases, you may find success by listing your charging case for sale for $40-50 and your AirPods for an additional $50. However, this depends on the market in your area, as well as how much time you want to spend waiting for the right buyer.
Make the Most of Your Sale
Your used AirPods have served you well during their time with you, and considering the tips above as you sell can ensure that they offer more money during a resale as well. The money you recoup with the right sale can even put you in a great position to upgrade to your next pair of headphones!
If you’re considering selling used headphones, we can help. Sell with us to put more money back into your pocket, and contact us with any questions or concerns!
