One of the most frequently asked questions we get is which version of the AirPods Pro do I have? Currently, there’s three versions: AirPods Pro 1st generation, AirPods Pro 2nd generation (Lightning) and AirPods Pro 2nd generation (USB-C).
Are you trying to figure out which version of the AirPods Pro you have? Here’s a guide listing the differences between the AirPods Pro 1st generation and AirPods Pro 2nd generation (lightning and USB-C).
Visual Differences: AirPods
One way to figure out if you have the AirPods Pro 1st generation or 2nd generation is by looking at the earbud itself.
For the AirPods Pro, there will be a black sensor on the AirPod. If your AirPod has the black sensor on the bottom, you have the AirPods Pro 1st generation.
For the AirPods Pro 2nd generation, the AirPod will have the black sensor in the middle of the AirPod.
Model Numbers
If you're still struggling to figure out which AirPods you have, you can manually check the model number of your AirPods.
If you have an iOS device, you find the model number by:
- Open Settings
- Select Bluetooth
- Select My Device
- Scroll down to the About section where you'll find the Model Number, which will be A + 4 digits.
Once you find the model number, you can look down below this chart to figure out which model of AirPods Pro you have.
|
AirPods |
Left AirPod Model |
Right AirPod Model |
Charging Case Model |
|
AirPods Pro 1st generation |
A2084 | ||
|
AirPods Pro 2nd generation (lightning) |
|||
|
AirPods Pro 2nd generation (USB-C) |
If you want more information, you can follow along with this video.
Visual Differences: Charging Case
If you only have the original charging case, you will still be able to identify if you have the AirPods 1st generation or 2nd generation through the charging case.
The AirPods Pro 2nd generation charging case has a lanyard loop on the right side of the charging case. The AirPods Pro 1st generation charging case doesn't.
If your original AirPods have the newer USB-C charging case, your original AirPods are the AirPods Pro 2nd generation (USB-C). Every older model of AirPod had lightning charging cases prior to the release in September 2023.
If you received your replacement and you're got a mismatch pop up when trying to pair your AirPods Pro, do check out Mismatched AirPods Pro - what does it mean? to learn why you may be receiving this pop up.