How do you recognize fake AirPods? and are they worth it?

Due to the popularity of AirPods, there are more and more fake products on the market. You can now find out how you can ensure that your AirPods are genuine originals? in this article. 

We also explain here whether buying fake AirPods can actually be worthwhile or whether you should stay away from them. If you want to jump directly to this part of the post, click here. 

How can I spot fake AirPods? 

There are a number of characteristics when buying AirPods that indicate that they could probably be a counterfeit. Now let's take a closer look at these features: 

1. Misspelling or Chinese characters

Counterfeit AirPods can be easily identified by Chinese characters on the packaging. Another clear sign of fake AirPods are spelling errors on the packaging. 

2. Incorrectly welded

Genuine Apple AirPods are always flawlessly sealed. A clear sign of a counterfeit is therefore the presence of air between the plastic film and the packaging. 

3. Check the serial number

Every Apple product, be it an iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch or AirPods, is provided with a unique serial number. The serial number is usually located on the back or bottom of the device. 

Alternatively, you can also find it in the device settings. After you get the serial number, you can check the authenticity and status of your device on the official Apple website: https://checkcoverage.apple.com/. 

Enter the serial number there if you want to make sure you have a legitimate Apple product.

4. Check AirPods case

The back of the AirPods case usually contains the note "Designed by Apple in California" or, for newer models, "Assembled in China" or "Assembled in Vietnam". 

Exact reproduction of this information is extremely difficult and therefore close attention should be paid to the quality of the writing. Also examine aspects such as coloring, alignment and poorer font quality.

5. Check AirPods for weight 

Fake AirPods are often significantly lighter than the originals. You can find the weights of all models on the Apple website. Of course, you can only check the weight if you have already purchased the AirPods. 

By the way: It is also possible that fake AirPods have LEDs that the real AirPods do not have. Or that fake AirPods have a button to switch on or off that the real ones don't have. 

6. Detect fake AirPods based on missing functions

Apple products have specific functions such as voice control, noise cancellation and location. Test these features to ensure they work properly. Missing or inferior features could indicate counterfeiting.

The following functions are usually not available on fake AirPods / AirPods Pro:

• Transparency
• Location
• Active noise cancellation

You can also carry out the following tests: 

1. With ear detection enabled, the music should pause when you take out either AirPod
   
   
2. For AirPods Pro or AirPods 3rd generation, you can hold down the stick to switch between transparency mode and active noise cancellation
   
   
3. While you're listening on your AirPods, you can double-click the stem of your AirPods to turn Siri on or off, skip to the next song, or skip back to the previous song (depending on your settings)

7. No smooth connection

Genuine Apple AirPods connect seamlessly to the paired device as soon as they are removed from the charging case. 

Fakes, on the other hand, may have difficulty connecting automatically or may require manual steps. 

If the AirPods do not connect smoothly and automatically to the device, this could be an indication that they are fake products.

Are fake AirPods or AirPods Pro worth it?

Now you know how to identify fake AirPods. But maybe you're even looking for fake AirPods and wondering whether they might be worth it for you. 

The decision to buy fake AirPods or AirPods Pro depends on various factors, including your personal preferences, budget, and priorities when it comes to audio quality and features. 

Here are some considerations before buying fake AirPods: 

1. Sound quality and features of Fake AirPods 

Real AirPods and AirPods Pro are known for their good sound quality and advanced features like active noise cancellation (on the Pro models). If high-quality audio performance and advanced technologies are important to you, then real AirPods are the better choice for you. 

2. Price of fake AirPods

Fake AirPods are of course much cheaper than the original products. If price is a deciding factor and you're willing to potentially compromise on quality and features, fake AirPods might be right for you. You can sometimes get fake AirPods for as little as €30. 

3. Quality and durability of fake AirPods

Fake AirPods are often of inferior quality and usually break more quickly. Real AirPods, on the other hand, are made with high-quality materials and have good workmanship, which has a positive effect on their longevity. 

4. Warranty and support of Fake AirPods

Genuine AirPods come with Apple warranty and customer support. In case of problems, you can contact official Apple support. Of course, with counterfeit products there is no guarantee or support from the manufacturer. 

Which fake AirPods have the best sound? 

It is difficult to recommend specific brands or models of fake AirPods as quality can vary greatly and also depends on individual preferences. 

Fake AirPods are produced by various manufacturers, and their sound quality can range from substandard to surprisingly good. 

If you are looking for fake AirPods with better sound quality, you could search reviews and experiences from other buyers online. 

However, note that the quality of these products is often not comparable to that of authentic AirPods because the manufacturers of counterfeit products do not have the same resources and technology.

How much do fake AirPods cost?

Prices for counterfeit AirPods in euros may vary depending on quality, place of sale and region. As a rule, the cost of fake AirPods is between around 20 euros and 100 euros or even more. 

Where can I find cheap original AirPods?

There are several ways you can get cheaper original AirPods. Let's look at these now: 

1. Discount campaigns and special offers

Look out for seasonal sales, holiday sales, or special offers where you can purchase original AirPods at a discounted price. You can find these at official Apple retailers, in trusted electronics stores or on major e-commerce platforms such as Amazon. 

2. Used goods dealer

Check used electronics platforms. Sometimes people sell their used but in good condition AirPods for a cheaper price. 

3. Student discounts

If you're a student, it might be worth looking for student discounts. Apple often offers special educational prices for students. 

4. Individual AirPods 

In some cases it also makes sense to buy individual AirPods. For example, if you lost a single AirPod or if only one of your AirPods is broken. Individual AirPods are of course cheaper than a complete set. 

Apple does not sell individual AirPods, but in our Online Shop you can purchase left or right AirPods. 

Of course these are originals and come with a guarantee. How it works? We buy complete sets from the manufacturer and then sell the individual parts. This way, users who only need one AirPod can save money and still get high-quality originals.  

Summary: How can I check whether a Apple product is original?

1. Check serial number: The serial number of the Apple product can be found on the original packaging, the back of the charging case, under the flap or on the inside of the charging case lid. It can also be checked in the device settings under Settings > General > About > AirPods if the AirPods are already connected to an iOS device. 

2. Spelling errors or Chinese characters: Counterfeits can be identified by spelling errors on the packaging or Chinese characters. Packaging Condition: Real Apple AirPods are flawlessly sealed, while counterfeits may have air between the plastic wrap and the packaging. 
   
   
3. Checking the AirPods case information: The information on the back of the AirPods case, such as "Designed by Apple in California" or place of manufacture, should be carefully checked for font quality, coloring and orientation. 

4. Weight comparison: Real AirPods have a specific weight, which can be looked up on the Apple website. Fake AirPods could be lighter. 

5. Functional tests: Check specific functions such as transparency, tracking and active noise cancellation to confirm authenticity. Counterfeits may not have such features or may be of inferior quality.

6. Automatic connection: Real Apple AirPods connect seamlessly and automatically to the paired device when removed from the charging case. Fake AirPods may show difficulty in automatically connecting or require manual steps, which may be a sign of counterfeit.

Frequently asked questions

How much does an AirPod Pro 2 weigh?

A single AirPod Pro 2 weighs 5.3g. An AirPods Pro 2 bundle, consisting of 2 AirPods, weighs 10.6 g. The charging case weighs 50.8g. 

Where can I find the serial number for AirPods?

You can usually find the serial number of your AirPods on the original packaging, on the back of the charging case, under the flap, or on the inside of the charging case lid. If the AirPods are already connected to an iOS device, you can also find the serial number via your device's settings under "Settings" > "General" > "About" > "AirPods".

In which country are AirPods manufactured? 

Apple produces its products in different countries, and the manufacturing locations may change over time. The exact origin of the AirPods depends on the specific model and time of production. You can usually find information about where it was made on the packaging or in the product information on the Apple website.

Are AirPods Pro Made in China? 

In general, many Apple products, including the AirPods Pro, are made in China. However, it is important to note that information about the place of manufacture may vary depending on the time of production and the specific model. For the most accurate information, we recommend consulting the product packaging or the official Apple website.