Apple AirPods 5 Are Up for Preorder

Announced at the recent Apple event , Apple’s AirPods 5 are set to release on September 18, starting at $129. They’re available for preorder now ( see at Amazon ). These are Apple's latest iteration of its baseline earbuds, the ones without the silicone tips. The biggest new feature is that both AirPods 5 models now have active noise canceling. In fact, Apple says the noise cancellation on AirPods 5 is 50% better than the previous model.

Like previous iterations, AirPods 5 come in two flavors: one with a plug-in charging case for $129, and one with a wireless charging case for $149.

The main difference between the two AirPods 5 models is that the $149 one comes with a wireless charging case, meaning you can charge it on a wireless Qi charger, like Apple’s MagSafe charging disc (which happens to be on sale at Amazon ). The pricier model also has volume control on the earbuds’ stems, which the $129 model does not.

Wireless charging might not sound like a huge improvement, but I find it super useful to charge my AirPods Pro. You just set the AirPods case on it – it sticks via magnets – and let it hang out there until the light turns green (it can also charge an iPhone). It’s a small convenience, but I think it's easily worth the extra $20 to get the model with the wireless charging case.

Whichever model you choose, you’ll get features like spatial audio and Apple’s live translation. AirPods 5 can also automatically switch between transparency mode and noise cancellation mode, depending on what’s going on with the background noise.

As I mentioned above, I own a pair of AirPods Pro, and I use them daily and love them dearly. I actually lost my first pair, and I immediately ran out to buy a second pair because I couldn’t live without them. If you don’t like the silicone tips on the AirPods Pro, or you want a cheaper alternative, AirPods 5 look like an excellent choice – and they're out just next week.

In other news, you can also preorder other newly announced Apple products , including Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4. Preorders are coming soon for the iPhone Duo, as well as iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max.

Chris Reed is a senior commerce editor and deals expert for IGN. He also runs IGN's LEGO coverage and maintains the upcoming release dates articles for video games , LEGO sets , and 4K Blu-rays . You can follow him on Bluesky .