Apple's AirPods lineup now spans four generations of standard earbuds and three generations of the Pro model, and with that breadth comes a thriving ecosystem of third-party accessories. Whether you own the open-fit AirPods 4, the USB-C AirPods Pro 2, or the health-sensing AirPods Pro 3 released in September 2025, the right accessories can extend your earbuds' lifespan, improve comfort, and unlock features Apple does not bundle in the box.
We have tested and researched dozens of options to narrow the field down to nine picks that genuinely make AirPods worth it. Here are the best AirPods accessories you can buy today.
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The best AirPods accessories at a glance
| Accessory | Highlight | Compatibility | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Catalyst Waterproof Case | Waterproof to 330 ft, drop-proof | AirPods Pro 1, 2, and 3 | $$ |
| Spigen Rugged Armor Case | Shock-absorbent TPU with carabiner | AirPods 4, Pro 2, and Pro 3 | $ |
| KeyBudz EarBuddyz 2.0 Ear Hooks | Secure fit with noise isolation | AirPods 1, 2, and 4 | $ |
| COMPLY Foam Earbud Tips | Memory foam for better noise cancellation | AirPods Pro 1, 2, and 3 | $ |
| Belkin BoostCharge Qi2 Charger | MagSafe-compatible fast charging | AirPods 4, Pro 2, and Pro 3 | $$ |
| Claiol Magnetic Anti-Lost Straps | Magnetic strap for active use | AirPods 1, 2, 3, 4, Pro 1, 2, and 3 | $ |
| Twelve South AirFly Pro | Bluetooth transmitter for flights | All AirPods models | $$$ |
| Hagibis Cleaning Kit | Dual-head cleaning tool | All AirPods models | $ |
| FutureCharger Wireless Charger | Budget wireless charging with safety features | AirPods 1, 2, 3, 4, Pro 1, 2, and 3 | $ |
1. Catalyst Waterproof Case
Compatible models: AirPods Pro 1, 2, and 3
The Catalyst Waterproof Case is the gold standard for AirPods protection. It is rated waterproof to 330 feet (100 m), dustproof, and drop-proof to military-grade standards, making it a reliable pick for hikers, swimmers, and anyone who works outdoors.
The case supports both wireless charging and USB-C charging, so you never have to remove it to top up. A built-in carabiner lets you clip it to a bag, belt loop, or backpack strap, and it ships in a variety of colors to match your style.
If you tend to put your AirPods through rough conditions (rain, sand, or the occasional drop onto concrete), the Catalyst case is the single most protective option on the market.
2. Spigen Rugged Armor Case
Compatible models: AirPods 4, AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C), and AirPods Pro 3
The Spigen Rugged Armor is a more affordable alternative to the Catalyst, priced at roughly $15 to $20, while still delivering serious drop protection. Its shock-absorbent TPU shell features a matte, textured finish that resists fingerprints and provides a secure grip.
Unlike some bulkier cases, the Rugged Armor preserves access to the charging port and the LED status light. It also includes a carabiner clip for on-the-go convenience. For AirPods 4 owners who want a case designed specifically for the new open-fit form factor, the Spigen Rugged Armor is one of the first third-party options to support it.
3. KeyBudz EarBuddyz 2.0 Ear Hooks
Compatible models: AirPods 1, 2, and 4
The EarBuddyz 2.0 solve one of the most common complaints about open-fit AirPods: they slip out during workouts. These soft silicone ear hooks wrap around the outer ear to keep each earbud firmly in place, even during high-intensity exercise.
Beyond the secure fit, the hooks also improve passive noise isolation by pressing the earbuds slightly deeper into the ear canal. They are easy to install and remove, though you will need to take them off before sliding your AirPods back into the charging case. At under $15 for a three-pack, they are one of the cheapest upgrades you can make.
4. COMPLY Foam AirPods Pro Earbud Tips
Compatible models: AirPods Pro 1, 2, and 3
Comply has been the benchmark brand for memory foam ear tips for over a decade, and their AirPods Pro tips deliver on that reputation. The foam compresses when you insert it and then expands to match the unique shape of your ear canal, creating a tighter seal than Apple's stock silicone tips.
That improved seal has a practical benefit: better passive noise isolation, which lets active noise cancellation work more effectively. Users consistently report a noticeable difference in bass response and ANC performance after switching. The tips fit inside the AirPods Pro charging case without issue, and each pack includes three pairs in your chosen size, handy if you want a backup set or need to share with family members who have different-sized ears.
Note: The AirPods Pro 3 ship with new foam-infused tips from Apple. If you find those comfortable, you may not need a third-party replacement. But if you prefer a denser foam or a different size range, Comply remains the go-to upgrade.
5. Belkin BoostCharge Qi2 Wireless Charger
Compatible models: AirPods 4 (with wireless case), AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C), and AirPods Pro 3
The Belkin BoostCharge Qi2 is a MagSafe-compatible charging pad that snaps magnetically onto your AirPods case for precise alignment every time. It eliminates the guesswork of positioning your case on a standard Qi charger, and it doubles as an iPhone charger, which makes it a smart nightstand companion.
Key specs include up to 15 W output for iPhones and a reliable 5 W charge for AirPods cases. The pad features a slim, non-slip base that stays put on smooth surfaces, and an LED indicator confirms charging status at a glance. At roughly $30 to $40, it is a meaningful step up from budget chargers in both speed and build quality.
6. Claiol Magnetic Anti-Lost Straps
Compatible models: AirPods 1, 2, 3, and 4 & AirPods Pro 1, 2, and 3
If you have ever had an AirPod slip out of your ear and bounce under a treadmill, you understand the appeal of a magnetic strap. The Claiol straps loop around each earbud and drape behind your neck, with built-in magnets that click together so you can wear them like a necklace when you are not listening.
Made from skin-friendly silicone, the straps are lightweight enough to forget they are there during runs, gym sessions, or commutes. Each package includes two straps: one for you and one as a spare or for a friend. They are compatible with virtually every AirPods model, including the newest AirPods 4 and Pro 3.
7. Twelve South AirFly Pro
Compatible models: All AirPods models (works via Bluetooth)
The Twelve South AirFly Pro is a compact Bluetooth transmitter that plugs into any 3.5 mm headphone jack (the kind found on airplane seatback screens, gym equipment, and older gaming consoles) and streams the audio wirelessly to your AirPods.
Its 16-plus-hour battery covers even the longest transpacific flights, and if you forget to charge it beforehand, you can plug in a USB-C cable and use it while it charges. The transmitter supports a 33 ft (10 m) range and can pair with two sets of headphones simultaneously, which is ideal for watching a movie with a travel companion.
How to pair: Turn off your phone's Bluetooth or switch to airplane mode, place your AirPods in their case, press and hold the pairing button on the AirFly until the LED flashes, then press the pairing button on your AirPods case. The two devices should connect within seconds.
8. Hagibis Cleaning Kit
Compatible models: All AirPods models
Earwax, pocket lint, and dust build up inside AirPods faster than most people realize, and that debris can muffle sound quality and reduce the fit of ear tips over time. The Hagibis Cleaning Kit tackles every surface with a three-in-one design:
- A flocking sponge for wiping down the inside of the charging case
- A high-density brush for sweeping debris off the speaker grilles
- A metal pen tip for dislodging stubborn grime from tight crevices
Regularly cleaning your AirPods is one of the simplest ways to maintain their audio performance and extend their overall lifespan. At under $10, this kit pays for itself quickly.
9. FutureCharger AirPods Wireless Charger
Compatible models: AirPods 1, 2, 3, and 4 & AirPods Pro 1, 2, and 3
For shoppers who want wireless charging on a tighter budget, the FutureCharger is a solid entry point at roughly $10 to $15. Its dedicated groove holds the AirPods case upright and aligned with the charging coil, which eliminates the common frustration of a case sliding off a flat pad overnight.
The charger is built from durable ABS+PC material with a non-slip rubber base, and it includes intelligent protection against over-voltage, over-current, overheating, and short circuits. Its compact footprint makes it easy to toss into a travel bag without adding bulk.
Frequently asked questions about AirPods accessories
Do AirPods accessories from older models work with AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 3?
It depends on the accessory type. Bluetooth transmitters, cleaning kits, and magnetic straps are typically universal because they do not rely on the case shape. Protective cases, however, are model-specific: an AirPods Pro 2 case will not fit the AirPods Pro 3 or AirPods 4, since each generation has a slightly different form factor. Always check the product listing for exact compatibility before purchasing.
Are third-party ear tips safe to use with AirPods Pro?
Yes. Reputable brands like Comply and Spigen design their tips to match the connector size used by Apple's AirPods Pro line. After installing third-party tips, run the Ear Tip Fit Test in Settings > AirPods on your iPhone to confirm a proper seal. A good seal is essential for both comfort and effective noise cancellation.
How often should I clean my AirPods?
Apple recommends wiping down your AirPods and charging case with a dry, lint-free cloth after every use. For a deeper clean (removing earwax from speaker grilles and debris from the case), a weekly routine with a tool like the Hagibis Cleaning Kit helps maintain sound quality and hygiene.
Can I use a MagSafe charger with my AirPods?
AirPods Pro 2 (USB-C), AirPods Pro 3, and the AirPods 4 with wireless charging case all support MagSafe alignment. A Qi2 or MagSafe-certified charger like the Belkin BoostCharge Qi2 will snap into place magnetically, ensuring a consistent charge every time without manual positioning.
Conclusion
Apple's AirPods have sparked an entire ecosystem of clever accessories, from rugged waterproof cases to compact Bluetooth transmitters, that extend what the earbuds can do. With the arrival of AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 3, the accessory market has expanded further, and the nine picks above cover protection, comfort, hygiene, and connectivity across every current model.
When you are ready for a new set of AirPods themselves, check out our live catalog of top refurbished models. We compare discounts from reputable sellers to help you save big on Apple's latest technology. Browse the catalog, set price alerts, and score certified refurbished AirPods with warranty at unbeatable prices.
2023 release
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Happy shopping!
Last updated: Mar 30, 2026 · First published: Mar 5, 2025
