AirPods are difficult to identify by appearance alone, so you'll need to check the model number in one of several places. Knowing your AirPods generation is essential for buying accessories, checking warranty status, or receiving software updates. While visual cues like replaceable ear tips can help narrow down whether you have Pro or regular models, several designs are identical within their respective lines.
The most reliable method is to find the model number, which always starts with the letter 'A'. You can locate this via the Settings app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac under the About section, or physically on the underside of each Airbud, behind the left ear cup cushion for AirPods Max, or on the charging case lid. Once found, compare it to Apple's official list: AirPods 1 (A1523, A1722), AirPods 2 (A2032, A2031), AirPods 3 (A2565, A2564), AirPods 4 (A3053, A3050, A3054), AirPods 4 ANC (A3056, A3055, A3057), AirPods 5 (A3531, A3532, A3533), AirPods 5 Wireless (A3439, A3440, A3441), AirPods Pro 1 (A2084, A2083), AirPods Pro 2 Lightning (A2931, A2699, A2698), AirPods Pro 2 USB-C (A3047, A3048, A3049), AirPods Pro 3 (A3063, A3064, A3065), AirPods Max 1 Lightning (A2096), AirPods Max 1 USB-C (A3184), and AirPods Max 2 (A3454).
If the model number is unavailable, use the serial number found below the model info in Settings or printed on the case lid and individual buds.
Source: Engadget · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing