AirPods with wireless charging: the models that have it
Not all AirPods charge wirelessly. AirPods Pro (2nd generation), AirPods Max, and AirPods (3rd generation) come with cases that support wireless charging. The original AirPods, AirPods (2nd generation), AirPods Pro (1st generation), and AirPods Air all charge only through a Lightning cable plugged into their cases.
The wireless-charging cases work with any Qi-certified wireless charger — the same standard used by iPhones, Samsung phones, and most other wireless charging pads. You place the case on the pad, and it charges without a cable. The AirPods inside the case charge from the case's battery, just as they do when you charge the case with a cable.
If you have an older model and want wireless charging, you cannot upgrade just the case. Apple does not sell replacement cases with wireless charging for models that shipped with wired cases. Your only option is to replace the entire AirPods unit.
Key Takeaways
- AirPods Pro (2nd generation), AirPods (3rd generation), and AirPods Max have wireless-charging cases; all other current models use Lightning cables only.
- Wireless-charging cases work with any Qi charger, including the pads sold for phones and tablets.
- You cannot buy a wireless-charging case separately to upgrade an older AirPods model.
- The case charges wirelessly, and the AirPods charge from the case's battery — the AirPods themselves never touch a charger directly.
How wireless charging works for AirPods
The process is straightforward: place the case on a wireless charger, and power transfers through the pad to a coil inside the case. The case battery stores that power and delivers it to the AirPods when they sit inside. You do not need to open the case or position the AirPods in any particular way — just drop the case on the pad.
Wireless charging is slower than plugging in a cable. A wired Lightning connection typically charges the case faster, but wireless charging is convenient if you already own a pad and do not want to carry a cable. Many people keep a wireless charger on a desk or nightstand and use it for both their phone and their AirPods case.
Checking if your AirPods case supports wireless charging
The easiest way to know is to check the model. Open the Settings app on your iPhone, go to Bluetooth, find your AirPods in the list, and tap the information icon (i) next to the name. The model name appears there — look for "Pro (2nd generation)", "(3rd generation)", or "Max".
You can also check the case itself. Cases with wireless charging have a small LED light on the back that glows amber when charging and white when fully charged. Older cases have the LED on the front. If you are unsure, try placing the case on a wireless charger — if nothing happens after a few seconds, the case does not support wireless charging.
Wireless chargers that work with AirPods
Any Qi-certified charger will work, which includes most wireless pads sold for phones. Popular options include Belkin's BoostCharge, Anker's PowerWave, and Apple's own MagSafe Charger (though the MagSafe Charger is designed for iPhones and does not magnetically align AirPods cases). You do not need an Apple-branded charger.
The charger does not need to be powerful — AirPods cases draw very little power. Even inexpensive Qi pads from third-party makers work fine. If you already own a wireless charger for your phone, test it with your AirPods case first before buying anything new.
Wired charging is still an option for all models
Even if your AirPods case supports wireless charging, you can still use a Lightning cable. All current AirPods cases have a Lightning port on the bottom. This is useful when you are traveling, in a car, or anywhere a cable is more convenient than finding a wireless pad.
Some people use both methods depending on the situation — wireless charging at home or the office, and a cable when on the move. There is no downside to using either method, and switching between them does not affect the battery or the case.
Battery life and wireless charging speed
Wireless charging does not change how long your AirPods last on a single charge. The battery capacity is the same whether you charge wirelessly or with a cable. What changes is the time it takes to fully charge the case: wired charging is typically faster, but wireless charging is still reasonably quick — usually one to two hours for a full case charge, depending on the charger's power output.
If you use your AirPods heavily and need them charged quickly, a wired cable is the faster choice. For everyday use where you charge overnight or during work, wireless charging is convenient enough that the slightly longer time does not matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I charge my AirPods without the case?
No. AirPods have no charging port or coil of their own — they charge only inside the case. The case is the battery and charger for the AirPods. You must charge the case, and the AirPods charge from the case's battery when they sit inside.
Do I need a special charger for AirPods wireless charging?
No. Any Qi-certified wireless charger works. You do not need an Apple charger or a charger made specifically for AirPods. The same pad you use for your phone will charge your AirPods case.
Is wireless charging bad for the battery?
No. Wireless charging uses the same technology as wired charging and does not degrade the battery faster. You can switch between wireless and wired charging without any harm to the case or AirPods.
Why is my case not charging on the wireless pad?
First, confirm your model supports wireless charging — older AirPods and AirPods Pro (1st generation) do not. If your model should support it, try a different wireless charger to rule out a faulty pad. If the case still does not charge, the charging coil inside the case may be damaged, and you may need a replacement.
Can I use a phone charger pad for my AirPods?
Yes. If your phone charger is Qi-certified, it will charge your AirPods case. Many people keep one pad on their desk and use it for both their phone and AirPods throughout the day.