Key Facts
- ✓ The AirPods 4 were introduced at the end of 2024, featuring two variations: a standard $129 model and a $179 noise-canceling version.
- ✓ Apple's Voice Isolation technology, included in the AirPods 4, focuses microphones on the user's voice for clearer calls in noisy environments.
- ✓ The AirPods Pro 3 include a built-in heart rate sensor that syncs with the iPhone Fitness app to track pulse and calories across over 50 workout types.
- ✓ A new XXS ear tip size is included with the AirPods Pro 3, joining four other sizes to ensure a more secure and comfortable fit.
- ✓ The updated AirPods Max feature USB-C charging and were released with new color options toward the end of 2024.
- ✓ During Black Friday 2025, the standard AirPods 4 dropped to a record low of $74, though current prices are higher.
January Audio Savings
While major shopping events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday have passed, January 2026 continues to offer compelling discounts on Apple's popular AirPods lineup. From the standard wireless earbuds to the premium over-ear models, savvy shoppers can still find significant savings across the entire range.
Whether you're looking for the latest noise-canceling technology, fitness tracking features, or simply a comfortable pair of earbuds for daily use, current deals make it an excellent time to upgrade your audio experience. Major retailers including Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy have marked down prices on multiple models.
AirPods 4: Two Tiers of Value
Introduced at the end of 2024, the AirPods 4 represent a significant upgrade over the third-generation models, featuring a more comfortable design and improved audio performance. Apple offers these wireless earbuds in two distinct variations: a standard model and a version with Active Noise Cancellation.
Both iterations benefit from Apple's Voice Isolation feature, which enhances call clarity by focusing the microphones on your voice, making them particularly effective in noisy environments. The standard model is currently available for $111.90 at Amazon and Walmart, representing an $18 discount from its $129 list price.
The AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation provide several Pro-level features at a more accessible price point. These include a surprisingly effective noise-canceling mode, a helpful transparency mode, wireless charging, and a case with a built-in speaker for easy tracking via the Find My app. They are currently priced at $148.99 at Amazon and Walmart, a solid $30 savings from their $179 MSRP.
AirPods Pro 3: Advanced Features
Apple's AirPods Pro 3, unveiled during the company's "Awe Dropping" event in September, bring a host of new capabilities. Beyond enhanced noise cancellation and superior sound quality, these earbuds introduce a built-in heart rate sensor that syncs directly with the iPhone Fitness app, allowing users to track their pulse and calories burned across more than 50 workout types.
Comfort and durability have also been improved. The Pro 3 feature a redesigned, angled fit and come with five ear tip sizes, including a new XXS option for a more secure seal. They carry a more robust IP57 rating and support Apple's new live translation feature, which conveys the gist of conversations effectively, though it cannot yet replace a human interpreter.
Despite their recent launch, these earbuds have seen frequent discounts. While prices dropped to as low as $199 in late 2025, current availability is limited to $239.95 at Amazon and Walmart, offering a modest $9 savings off the $249 list price.
AirPods Max: Premium Over-Ear
For those who prefer over-ear headphones, the AirPods Max offer a luxurious listening experience. Constructed from aluminum, steel, and mesh fabric, they are designed for comfort during extended sessions. These headphones feature excellent noise cancellation, Apple's spatial audio, and expansive, balanced sound, though they may lag slightly behind competitors in bass response.
At the end of 2024, Apple updated the AirPods Max to include USB-C charging and new color options. While the sticker price is high, they remain a top choice for iPhone users seeking premium Bluetooth headphones. The current sale price of $449.99 at Amazon and Best Buy represents a $100 discount and is one of the better prices seen to date.
They're large and luxurious, comprised of aluminum, steel, and mesh fabric that remains comfortable during extended listening sessions.
Key Takeaways
January 2026 presents a solid opportunity to purchase Apple's audio gear, with discounts available on nearly every model in the current lineup. While the deepest discounts from Black Friday have passed, the available savings still offer good value, particularly for the recently released AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 3.
Shoppers should note that availability is currently concentrated at specific retailers, with Amazon and Walmart offering the most consistent deals across the board. For those seeking the highest-end over-ear experience, the AirPods Max with USB-C charging are available at a significant markdown, making it a compelling time to invest in premium sound.
