# Here’s how much Apple AirPods cost in 2016 vs. 2026

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/heres-how-much-apple-airpods-cost-in-2016-vs-2026/
- Published: 2026-11-14T16:30:00+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-14T17:04:12+00:00
- Original publisher: Engadget
- Original article: https://www.engadget.com/2311715/apple-airpods-2016-vs-2026-how-much-they-cost/
- Topics: Gadgets

## Key points

- Standard AirPods now start below their 2016 launch price.
- Inflation makes the original $159 price about $222 today.
- Pro and Max launch prices have remained consistent.

## Summary

Apple’s AirPods have largely held their prices since launching in 2016, making them cheaper in real terms after inflation. The article says this is unusual for consumer technology and that newer standard models offer more features for their price, helping keep Apple’s popular earbuds accessible.

The original AirPods cost $159; the current fifth generation starts at $129, with a $149 model adding wireless charging and other features. AirPods Pro models have each launched at $249, while AirPods Max have stayed at $549 across two releases. Adjusted for inflation, the original AirPods’ price would be about $222 today, and the article notes that third-party retailers often discount the range.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.