Music

AirPods can be tricky to identify because each generation looks quite similar to others. Apple launched the original AirPods in 2016 and has since released multiple versions. The latest AirPods 4 came out in September 2024 with both standard and Active Noise Cancellation options.

You can use several reliable ways to figure out which AirPods you own. The model number gives you the most accurate identification. You’ll find it in your device’s Bluetooth settings or printed on the AirPods. To cite an instance, see the first-generation AirPods that use model numbers A1523 and A1722, while fourth-generation models come with numbers A3053, A3050, and A3054. On top of that, visual differences can help you spot your model – the 3rd and 4th generation AirPods have shorter stems than earlier versions. The charging case designs also differ between generations. This piece walks you through every method to identify your Apple earbuds, whether you need to check compatibility or want to know about available features.

Check Your AirPods Info in iPhone Settings

The quickest way to identify your AirPods model is to check the information in your iPhone’s settings. This method works best when your AirPods are paired with your device. You’ll get access to details that show exactly which AirPods you have.

How to access Bluetooth settings

Your iPhone holds the answer to “what AirPods do I have.” Here’s how you can find this information:

1. Ensure your AirPods are connected to your iPhone
2. Open the Settings app on your iPhone
3. Tap on Bluetooth in the main settings menu
4. Locate your AirPods in the device list (they’ll appear with a name like “John’s AirPods”)
5. Tap the information icon (i) next to your AirPods name

Users with iOS 14 or later can take a shorter path. Just go to Settings and tap your AirPods name at the top of the screen when they’re connected.

Where to find the model number

Your AirPods’ information screen displays several details about your device. The model number helps you determine your AirPods’ generation and type quickly.

Look for a code that starts with “A” followed by four numbers (like A2698 for certain AirPods Pro models or A2564 for specific AirPods generations). This code tells you exactly which AirPods you own.

The path is slightly different for older iOS versions (before iOS 14):

1. Go to Settings > General > About
2. Scroll down until you see your AirPods name
3. Tap on the name to see detailed information including the model number

This model number is your key to identifying which generation of AirPods you have when checked against Apple’s model number list.

What the serial number tells you

The serial number, found in the same settings menu as the model number, gives you important details about your specific AirPods unit. This unique identifier comes in handy when you need to:

• Check warranty coverage status
• Verify your AirPods’ authenticity
• Get service or support from Apple
• Register your product with Apple

Apple’s Device Coverage page lets you check your warranty status online. Enter your serial number, complete the verification, and you’ll see complete information about your specific AirPods model.

Serial numbers and model numbers serve different purposes. Each AirPods unit has its own serial number, while many AirPods share the same model number. This difference helps confirm your unit’s exact identity.

You can also find the serial number printed inside your charging case’s lid or behind the left ear cushion for AirPods Max if you can’t access it through settings.

Identify Your AirPods by Model Number

Model numbers are the best way to identify your AirPods version. You can check these numbers through your iPhone settings or find them printed directly on your AirPods.

Where to find the model number on the AirPods

Your AirPods model number is easy to spot once you know where to look. This is the quickest way to figure out which generation you have, even without connecting to a device:

1. Look at the underside of each AirPod near the stem’s base
2. Find the tiny printed text that starts with “A” and four numbers
3. AirPods Max users should remove the left magnetic ear cushion to see the model number

The model numbers are also inside your charging case – just open the lid and check near the hinge. Since these details are tiny, good lighting or reading glasses might help you see them better.

List of model numbers and what they mean

Each AirPods version comes with unique model numbers that tell you exactly which one you have. Here’s a complete reference table:

Yes, it is normal that left and right AirPods have different model numbers, usually in sequence (like A2031 and A2032). This is just Apple’s standard way of numbering them, not a sign that your AirPods don’t match.

Examples: A2564 AirPods generation, A2698 AirPods Pro

Specific model numbers are a great way to get answers about your AirPods version. Here are some examples:

A2564 AirPods: This number shows you have the 3rd generation standard AirPods from 2021. These come with a shorter stem and spatial audio support.

A2698 AirPods Pro: This indicates you have the right earbud of 2nd generation AirPods Pro with Lightning charging case (2022). The left earbud shows A2699, while the charging case displays A2700.

Some users notice different model numbers in their settings versus what’s printed on their AirPods. This happens because settings typically show just one number (usually the right AirPod’s), while each piece has its own unique code.

This reference list helps you match your model number and know exactly which AirPods you own.

Use the Charging Case to Identify Your AirPods

The charging case is the quickest way to identify your AirPods model. You’ll find valuable details that tell you exactly which AirPods you have, even without your iPhone nearby.

Model numbers inside the case lid

Your charging case lid has some hidden identification details in plain sight. Just open your charging case and look at the underside of the lid near the hinge. You’ll find both the model number and serial number printed in tiny text. The model number starts with “A” and has four digits – like A2700 for AirPods Pro 2 with MagSafe Lightning charging.

This spot stays the same for all AirPods generations. Whatever model you own, you can check this discrete location to figure out your AirPods generation without connecting to your iPhone.

Design differences between generations

The charging case shows some substantial design differences between generations. The status light’s position is a good clue – a front-facing light usually means you have a wireless charging case that works with Qi chargers. But if you see the light inside the case, you probably have the standard Lightning-only charging case from earlier versions.

The charging port at the bottom is another clear sign. Most older models use Lightning connectors, while newer ones (from 2023) come with USB-C ports. The AirPods Pro 2 case also comes with some unique features – there’s a lanyard loop on the side and a speaker at the bottom that shows charging and battery status.

The shape of the case is different too. AirPods Pro cases are wider than tall, while regular AirPods cases are more vertical. These visual differences help you identify your AirPods model without checking any numbers.

Charging case model number reference list

Here’s a complete reference list of charging case models to help you identify your AirPods:

*Note: The AirPods Pro 1st gen cases (A2190) need an extra check. Look at the last four digits of the serial number – original cases end with 0C6L or LKKT, while MagSafe versions end with 1059 or 1NRC.

These design elements and the reference chart are a foolproof way to identify your AirPods version just by looking at the charging case.

Spot the Differences in AirPods Design

Visual inspection is the easiest way to figure out which AirPods generation you own without diving into settings or looking up model numbers. Each AirPods model has unique design features that make them easy to spot quickly.

Stem length and shape

The way AirPods stems have changed gives clear hints about which version you have. First and second-gen AirPods come with longer stems that look like the EarPods from 2012. Third-gen models switched to shorter stems like AirPods Pro, which first showed up in 2019. The latest fourth-gen AirPods kept the shorter stem but added a slimmer oval grille opening.

Take a look at how the stem matches up with the bud size. Newer models have stems that are about a third shorter than the original versions. The AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancelation also sports a wider top section and smoother overall design.

Silicone tips vs. plastic tips

The ear tip design makes it really easy to tell different AirPods apart. Regular AirPods in all generations use a one-size plastic design without removable tips. AirPods Pro models are different – they come with replaceable silicone tips that let you customize the fit.

The second-gen AirPods Pro (A2698, A2699) gives you four silicone tip sizes to choose from. You get extra small, small, medium, and large options. The first-gen Pro only had three sizes. That extra-small tip is unique to AirPods Pro 2, making it a dead giveaway.

Over-ear vs. in-ear models

AirPods Max stands out as Apple’s only over-ear headphones. They’re hard to miss with their stainless steel ear cups and mesh headband that helps distribute their hefty 13.6-ounce weight.

The connector type tells you which Max version you have. The original uses Lightning while the 2024 refresh comes with USB-C. Max also breaks away from the typical white-only design. You can get them in silver, space gray, blue, pink, and green – another easy way to spot them.

Match Features to Your AirPods Version

Your AirPods’ available features depend on your specific model. Each generation offers different capabilities, so identifying your model helps you get the most from your device.

Which models have noise cancelation

Premium AirPods models exclusively offer Active Noise Cancelation (ANC). AirPods Pro and AirPods Max were the first to feature this technology. AirPods Pro 2 now delivers twice the noise cancelation power of its predecessor. Apple added this technology to the AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancelation model in 2024—making it the first standard AirPods design with ANC.

Models with noise cancelation:

• AirPods Pro (all generations): Has ANC and Transparency mode
• AirPods Max: Has pro-level ANC
• AirPods 4 with ANC: First standard design with this feature
• Standard AirPods (1st, 2nd, 3rd gen and basic 4th gen): No noise cancelation

Spatial audio and adaptive EQ availability

Spatial Audio creates an immersive theater-like experience by placing sound anywhere in space. You’ll find this feature in:

• AirPods 3
• Both AirPods 4 models
• AirPods Pro (all generations)
• AirPods Max

iOS 16 or later enables Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking. AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, and AirPods 3 exclusively offer Adaptive EQ. This technology uses internal microphones to adjust frequencies, which ensures consistent audio quality.

Charging options: Lightning, MagSafe, USB-C

AirPods’ charging technology has evolved over time. Current charging options include:

• Lightning: Available on older models and some current versions
• MagSafe: Works with Qi-certified chargers and Apple Watch chargers
• USB-C: Available on newest models including AirPods Pro 2 USB-C version and AirPods 4

Every AirPods case provides multiple full charges. Standard AirPods 4 gives you 5 hours of listening time and 30 hours total with the case. The ANC version provides 4 hours when noise cancelation runs. AirPods Pro 2 lasts up to 6 hours with ANC on.

Knowing your AirPods’ model is vital to understand your device’s charging capabilities and battery life.

In a few words

Finding out which AirPods model you own is now easier than ever. This piece shows you several reliable ways to answer the question “what generation AirPods do I have?” Your iPhone’s Bluetooth settings give you the quickest way to verify your model. These settings show model numbers that pinpoint your AirPods’ exact version.

Looking at your AirPods physically helps too. The charging case’s design, stem length, and whether it has silicone or plastic tips tell you a lot about which generation you have. Model numbers printed on the AirPods or inside the charging case lid give you definitive proof of your version.

Knowing your AirPods model matters, especially when you have specific features in mind. Premium features like Active Noise Cancelation are unique to AirPods Pro models, AirPods Max, and the newest AirPods 4 with ANC. More recent generations offer Spatial Audio and Adaptive EQ. The charging tech has evolved from Lightning to MagSafe and now includes USB-C in the latest models.

This knowledge lets you identify your AirPods model and get the most from its features. These identification methods work great whether you bought them new or got them from someone else. Next time someone asks about your wireless earbuds, you’ll know exactly which Apple AirPods model powers your daily listening.

Here are some FAQs about how to tell what AirPods I have:

How can you tell the difference between AirPods 1 and 2 case?

The easiest way to tell the difference between AirPods 1 and 2 cases is by checking the LED light position—AirPods 1 have the light inside the case, while AirPods 2 have it on the front. Another method (how to tell what model airpods i have) is to look at the model number on the underside of the case lid. AirPods 2 cases also support wireless charging (if you have the optional wireless case), while AirPods 1 cases do not.

What model is A2031 AirPods?

The model number A2031 refers to the left or right AirPod from the 2nd generation (how to know what airpods you have). These are standard AirPods (not Pro) and were released in 2019. If you see this number on your AirPods, you have either the wired or wireless charging case version of AirPods 2.

How do I find my AirPods 1 and 2?

To find your lost AirPods 1 or 2 (how to tell what kind of airpods i have), use the Find My app on an Apple device linked to your iCloud account. The app shows their last known location if they’re offline or lets you play a sound if they’re nearby. AirPods 2 may have slightly better Bluetooth range for tracking compared to AirPods 1.

How can you tell the difference between AirPods 2 and 3?

AirPods 3 have a shorter stem and a more contoured design compared to the longer-stemmed AirPods 2 (how to tell what version airpods i have). Additionally, AirPods 3 feature spatial audio and force sensor controls, while AirPods 2 only have tap controls. The model numbers (found in Settings > Bluetooth) will also confirm which generation you have.

How do I tell if I have AirPods 1 or 2?

To confirm if you have AirPods 1 or 2 (how to tell what generation airpods i have), check the model number in your iPhone’s Bluetooth settings (tap the “i” next to your AirPods) or look at the tiny text inside the case lid. AirPods 1 models start with A15xx, while AirPods 2 models are A20xx. AirPods 2 also support “Hey Siri” hands-free, unlike AirPods 1.

Are AirPod pros 1 and 2 the same?

No, AirPods Pro 1 and 2 are different—the 2nd generation has improved noise cancellation, a U1 chip for Precision Finding, touch-based volume control, and longer battery life (how to tell what airpods i have). The model numbers differ (A2084 for Pro 1 vs. A2931 for Pro 2), and the Pro 2 case has a lanyard loop and speaker for Find My alerts.

What are 1st and 2nd generation AirPods?

1st-gen AirPods (released 2016) have model numbers A15xx and lack hands-free “Hey Siri,” while 2nd-gen (2019) models (A20xx) support it (how to tell what model airpods i have). Both look nearly identical, but AirPods 2 have an optional wireless charging case and slightly better battery efficiency. The 2nd-gen also uses the H1 chip for faster connectivity.

What model of AirPods is A2032 A2031 A1602?

A2031 and A2032 are left/right AirPods from the 2nd generation (how to know what airpods you have), while A1602 is the wired charging case for AirPods 1. If you see these numbers, you likely have a mix of AirPods 2 earbuds with an AirPods 1 case—check the model number inside the case lid to confirm.

What version of AirPods is A2084?

A2084 refers to the left or right AirPod from the 1st-generation AirPods Pro (how to tell what version airpods i have). These were released in 2019 and feature active noise cancellation, transparency mode, and silicone ear tips. If your AirPods have this model number, they’re the original Pro model, not the 2022 Pro 2.