The AirPods Pro are a popular choice for those seeking high-quality wireless earbuds with advanced features like active noise cancellation and spatial audio. Understanding the costs involved, including the initial purchase price, potential financing options, and additional expenses, is crucial before making a purchase. This guide will break down the pricing of AirPods Pro and related considerations.
AirPods Pro: Current Pricing and Where to Buy
The most recent generation of AirPods Pro (AirPods Pro 2nd generation) typically retails for $249 in the United States. However, prices can fluctuate depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions.
Where to Buy:
- Apple Store: Purchasing directly from Apple, either online or in a physical store, ensures you receive genuine AirPods Pro and access to Apple’s customer support.
- Authorized Apple Resellers: Retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and Target are authorized Apple resellers and often offer competitive pricing.
- Other Retailers: Be cautious when buying from less-known retailers, as there’s a risk of purchasing counterfeit products.
Understanding Apple Card Monthly Installments (ACMI)
Apple offers a financing option called Apple Card Monthly Installments (ACMI) for eligible products, including AirPods Pro, when purchased with an Apple Card. Here’s what you need to know:
- 0% APR: ACMI provides 0% APR financing, making it an attractive option for spreading out payments.
- Eligibility: ACMI is available for purchases made at Apple Store locations, apple.com, the Apple Store app, or by calling 1-800-MY-APPLE in the U.S. It’s subject to credit approval and credit limit.
- Checkout Selection: You must specifically select ACMI as your payment method at checkout to take advantage of the 0% APR.
- Variable APR on Other Purchases: If you use your Apple Card to buy AirPods Pro with a one-time payment, the purchase will be subject to your Apple Card’s variable APR, not the ACMI 0% APR. This also applies to taxes and shipping.
- Availability Restrictions: ACMI is not available for purchases made online at special storefronts like Apple Employee Purchase Plan or Government and Veterans and Military Purchase Programs.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the initial purchase price of the AirPods Pro, there are other potential costs to factor in:
- AppleCare+: AppleCare+ provides extended warranty coverage and accidental damage protection. While optional, it can be a worthwhile investment to safeguard against potential repairs or replacements. AppleCare+ provides coverage for unlimited incidents of accidental damage from handling, each incident is subject to a service fee and applicable taxes.
AirPods Pro with MagSafe Charging Case
Alt: AirPods Pro 2nd generation with MagSafe Charging Case, showcasing wireless charging capability.
- Accessories: Consider the cost of accessories like replacement ear tips, charging cables, or protective cases.
Factors Affecting the Price of AirPods Pro
Several factors can influence the price of AirPods Pro:
- New Product Releases: When Apple releases a new generation of AirPods Pro, the price of the previous generation may decrease.
- Retailer Promotions: Keep an eye out for sales and promotions from various retailers.
- Refurbished Options: Purchasing refurbished AirPods Pro from Apple or authorized resellers can save you money.
Maintaining Your AirPods Pro for Longevity
Proper maintenance can extend the life of your AirPods Pro and prevent the need for costly replacements. Regular cleaning is crucial. Device performance and noise control features like Active Noise Cancellation, Adaptive Audio, and Transparency can be affected by debris or earwax buildup. Apple provides cleaning instructions on their support website to help you maintain performance and full feature functionality. Refer to support.apple.com/120409 for AirPods Pro 2 cleaning instructions.
Alt: Close-up showing the process of cleaning AirPods Pro earbuds, emphasizing the use of a soft, dry, lint-free cloth.
Conclusion
The cost of AirPods Pro is a combination of the initial purchase price and potential additional expenses. By understanding the pricing structure, financing options like ACMI, and the importance of maintenance, you can make an informed decision and enjoy your AirPods Pro for years to come. Remember to always purchase from reputable sources to ensure you’re getting genuine Apple products.
