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These were historical Prime Day-era deals, not confirmed live discounts as of September 14, 2026. The promotion covered several Apple and Beats models, and the headline’s “up to 45% off” applied to selected products and listings—not every AirPod or Beats device. Some of the lowest prices involved open-box or refurbished stock.
Here’s what the deals reportedly cost, which products offered the best value, and how to avoid confusing older AirPods generations with Apple’s current lineup.
Deal status: treat the original prices as historical
The matching headline was indexed by Apple News in connection with Prime Day or July “Black Friday” shopping events. The original article is not accessible from the indexed page, so the exact product responsible for the 45% figure cannot be independently confirmed.
Deal coverage from 9to5Mac, later July coverage and Cult of Mac showed discounts on AirPods Pro 2, AirPods Max, Beats Studio Pro, Beats Solo 4, Beats Solo Buds and Powerbeats Pro 2. Retail prices can change after an event ends, and the cheapest color or condition may no longer be available.
#1 Best Overall
- WORLD’S BEST IN-EAR ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION — Removes up to 2x more unwanted noise than AirPods Pro 2* so you can stay fully immersed in the moment.*
- BREAKTHROUGH AUDIO PERFORMANCE — Experience breathtaking, three-dimensional audio with AirPods Pro 3. A new acoustic architecture delivers transformed bass, detailed clarity so you can hear every instrument, and stunningly vivid vocals.
- HEART RATE SENSING — Built-in heart rate sensing lets you track your heart rate and calories burned for up to 50 different workout types.* With iPhone, you will have access to the Move ring, step count, and the new Workout Buddy,* powered by Apple Intelligence.*
- LIVE TRANSLATION — Communicate across language barriers using Live Translation,* enabled by Apple Intelligence.*
- EXTENDED BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 8 hours of listening time with Active Noise Cancellation on a single charge. Or up to 10 hours in Transparency using the Hearing Aid feature.*
What the reported deals looked like
The table below separates list or comparison prices from the discounted prices reported in deal coverage. Percentage savings are approximate and should not be treated as a single Apple-wide discount.
| Product | List/comparison price | Reported deal price | Approx. saving | Condition or qualification | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AirPods Pro 2 | $249 | About $199.99 | About 20% | Reported as a new USB-C/MagSafe-case listing in deal coverage; other listings included refurbished units | iPhone users wanting compact ANC earbuds |
| AirPods Max 2 | $549 | About $399 to $449 | About 18% to 27% | New-product deal coverage; do not confuse with the original AirPods Max | Apple users who prefer over-ear headphones |
| Beats Studio Pro | $349.99 or retailer comparison prices as listed | About $132.50 to $150 in some coverage | Varied; roughly 57% to 62% against $349.99 | Price varied by seller, model and comparison price | Lower-cost over-ear listening |
| Beats Solo 4 | $199.99 | About $130 | About 35% | Color and retailer restrictions may apply | Lightweight on-ear headphones |
| Beats Solo Buds | About $70 | About $43 to $45 | About 36% | Reported Best Buy prices were open-box; not factory-sealed new stock | Lowest-cost wireless earbuds |
| Powerbeats Pro 2 | $249.99 | About $200 | About 20% | Reported as a retailer sale | Runners and gym users needing ear hooks |
Why the headline said “up to 45% off: the wording describes the maximum observed discount, not a standard discount across the range. Different coverage showed different sale prices and comparison values, and the largest percentage may have involved a particular color, seller, open-box unit or refurbished product. Without the original article or an archived product page, it would be misleading to assign the exact 45% saving to one model.
AirPods Pro 2: the discounted previous generation
AirPods Pro 2 were the most obvious choice for iPhone owners who wanted small earbuds with active noise cancellation, transparency mode and Apple-device integration at a lower price than the newest generation.
Deal coverage placed new USB-C-case units near $199.99. Best Buy’s indexed listings also showed a refurbished AirPods Pro 2 example at $138.99, while another set of listings showed new products around $234. Those prices are not equivalent: refurbished inventory may have different packaging, cosmetic condition, warranty terms and return rules.
Rank #2
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
Before buying, confirm that the listing includes the USB-C charging case rather than the older Lightning-case version. Also check that it is a complete retail pair—not a replacement earbud or case—and verify the seller’s warranty and return policy.
Apple’s current catalog lists AirPods Pro 3 at $249. That makes AirPods Pro 2 most compelling when the discount is substantial enough to compensate for buying the older generation. A small gap between Pro 2 and Pro 3 may not justify giving up the newer model.
AirPods Max: check the generation before comparing prices
AirPods Max are over-ear headphones, not a larger version of AirPods Pro. They suit buyers who prefer not to wear earbuds and who value premium Apple-device integration, but they are less compact and typically more expensive than the earbud options.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDeal reports cited AirPods Max 2 at about $399 during one Prime Day promotion and about $449 during a later July event, against Apple’s $549 list price. Retail listings can also use the shorter name “AirPods Max,” so check whether the product is the original model, a USB-C version, or the newer Max 2 before treating two prices as comparable.
Rank #3
- Active Noise Cancellation reduces unwanted background noise
- Adaptive Transparency lets outside sounds in while reducing loud environmental noise
- Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking places sound all around you
- Multiple ear tips (XS, S, M, L)
- Touch control lets you swipe to adjust volume, press to direct media playback, answer or end calls, and press and hold to switch between listening modes
Even at $399, this is a high-dollar purchase. A lower percentage discount on Max 2 can represent more cash savings than a larger percentage discount on a cheaper pair of earbuds. Buyers should also account for bulk, portability and personal comfort rather than comparing the headphones solely by sale percentage.
The Beats deals
Beats Studio Pro: the over-ear value pick
Beats Studio Pro was the strongest over-ear value candidate when the reported sale prices were available. Deal coverage cited prices as low as approximately $132.50 to $150 in some cases, well below Apple’s indexed $349.99 price.
Studio Pro makes more sense than AirPods Max for shoppers who want over-ear headphones without paying for Apple’s premium model. Beats is also a practical choice for households that regularly switch between iPhone and Android devices. However, it should not be presented as offering every AirPods ecosystem feature, and retailer comparison prices varied by model and seller.
Recommended Free Tools
Beats Solo 4: a lightweight on-ear option
Beats Solo 4 was reported at about $130 versus Apple’s $199.99 list price. It is aimed at buyers who want lightweight on-ear headphones and Beats branding, not a direct substitute for AirPods Max.
Rank #4
- REBUILT FOR COMFORT — AirPods 4 have been redesigned for exceptional all-day comfort and greater stability. With a refined contour, shorter stem, and quick-press controls for music or calls.
- PERSONALIZED SPATIAL AUDIO — Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking places sound all around you, creating a theater-like listening experience for music, TV shows, movies, games, and more.*
- IMPROVED SOUND AND CALL QUALITY — AirPods 4 feature the Apple-designed H2 chip. Voice Isolation improves the quality of phone calls in loud conditions. Using advanced computational audio, it reduces background noise while isolating and clarifying the sound of your voice for whomever you’re speaking to.*
- MAGICAL EXPERIENCE — Just say “Siri” or “Hey Siri” to play a song, make a call, or check your schedule.* And with Siri Interactions, now you can respond to Siri by simply nodding your head yes or shaking your head no.* Pair AirPods 4 by simply placing them near your device and tapping Connect on your screen.* Easily share a song or show between two sets of AirPods.* An optical in-ear sensor knows to play audio only when you’re wearing AirPods and pauses when you take them off. And you can track down your AirPods and Charging Case with the Find My app.*
- LONG BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 5 hours of listening time on a single charge. And get up to 30 hours of total listening time using the case.*
On-ear headphones sit against the ears rather than around them, which some people find less comfortable for long listening sessions. Confirm the color, condition and return terms because sale pricing can be limited to particular inventory.
Beats Solo Buds: the cheapest option, with compromises
Beats Solo Buds appeared around $43 to $45 in indexed Best Buy listings, but those examples were identified as open-box. That is materially different from a new pair. Deal coverage also placed the product closer to $70 depending on retailer and condition.
Solo Buds are suited to buyers who prioritize portability and a low upfront price. They are not the right choice for someone seeking premium noise cancellation, extensive accessories or the broadest AirPods-specific feature set. The deal coverage also noted that the package does not include a charging cable, so factor that omission into the effective cost.
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Powerbeats Pro 2 were reported at about $200 against Apple’s $249.99 list price. Their defining buying case is a secure, sport-oriented fit with ear hooks, making them more suitable for runners and gym users than the Solo line.
Best Value
- REBUILT FOR COMFORT — AirPods 4 have been redesigned for exceptional all-day comfort and greater stability. With a refined contour, shorter stem, and quick-press controls for music or calls.
- ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION — AirPods 4 with Active Noise Cancellation help reduce outside noise before it reaches your ears, so you can immerse yourself in what you’re listening to.*
- HEAR THE WORLD AROUND YOU — The powerful H2 chip comes to AirPods 4. Adaptive Audio seamlessly blends ANC and Transparency mode — which lets you comfortably hear and interact with the world around you exactly as it sounds — to provide the best listening experience in any environment.* And when you’re speaking with someone nearby, Conversation Awareness automatically lowers the volume of what’s playing.*
- IMPROVED SOUND AND CALL QUALITY — Voice Isolation improves the quality of calls in loud conditions. Using advanced computational audio, it reduces background noise while isolating and clarifying the sound of your voice for whomever you’re speaking to.*
- MAGICAL EXPERIENCE — Just say “Siri” or “Hey Siri” to play a song, make a call, or check your schedule.* And with Siri Interactions, now you can respond to Siri by simply nodding your head yes or shaking your head no.* Pair AirPods 4 by simply placing them near your device and tapping Connect on your screen.* Easily share a song or show between two sets of AirPods.* An optical in-ear sensor knows to play audio only when you’re wearing AirPods and pauses when you take them off. And you can track down your AirPods and Charging Case with the Find My app.*
The premium over Solo Buds is easier to justify when stability during exercise matters. Conversely, buyers who want the smallest, cheapest earbuds may not need the extra sport-focused design.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which deal was best?
- Best discounted Apple earbuds: AirPods Pro 2, provided the listing is the USB-C version, factory-new or clearly covered refurbished stock, and meaningfully cheaper than AirPods Pro 3.
- Best current Apple earbuds: AirPods Pro 3, which Apple’s indexed catalog lists at $249. The newer model may be preferable if the Pro 2 discount is modest.
- Best over-ear bargain: Beats Studio Pro when a verified new unit is near the lower reported sale prices.
- Best Apple over-ear option: AirPods Max 2 for buyers who specifically want Apple’s premium over-ear design and accept the size and price.
- Best workout option: Powerbeats Pro 2 for buyers who need ear hooks and are comfortable paying more than entry-level Beats earbuds.
- Cheapest legitimate option: Beats Solo Buds, but only after confirming whether the listing is new or open-box and accepting the limited accessories and features.
- Best for mixed iPhone/Android households: Beats models generally deserve closer consideration, although compatibility and available features vary by product.
What to check before paying
- Confirm the generation. Separate AirPods Pro 2 from AirPods Pro 3 and the original AirPods Max from AirPods Max 2.
- Check the connector and case. For AirPods Pro 2, verify USB-C versus Lightning and confirm that the charging case is included.
- Read the condition label. “Open-box,” “refurbished,” “renewed” and “new” describe different purchases. Best Buy’s indexed results included all of these categories across similar products.
- Identify the seller. Marketplace sellers may have different return policies and warranty support from Apple or an authorized retailer.
- Review the return window and warranty. This is especially important for refurbished and open-box audio products.
- Check color and stock restrictions. The lowest price may apply to one color or disappear when inventory changes.
- Compare dollar savings. Calculate
list price − sale priceas well as(list price − sale price) ÷ list price × 100. A larger percentage is not automatically the better purchase. - Be skeptical of unusually low prices. Verify the seller, serial number, return terms and warranty to reduce the risk of counterfeit or misrepresented earbuds.
Apple’s lineup has changed
Important: the original deal story focused on older product names, while Apple’s indexed 2026 catalog lists newer generations.
- AirPods Pro 2: previous-generation earbuds; Apple lists AirPods Pro 3 at $249.
- AirPods Max: identify whether a listing is the original model or the newer AirPods Max 2.
- AirPods Max 2: Apple’s indexed list price is $549.
- Beats Studio Pro: Apple’s indexed list price is $349.99.
- Powerbeats Pro 2: Apple’s indexed list price is $249.99.
- Beats Solo 4: Apple’s indexed list price is $199.99.
These are Apple list prices, not guarantees that every retailer currently charges the same amount. Check the Apple catalog and retailer listing immediately before purchase.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchDo promotional trials count as a discount?
Some eligible AirPods and Beats purchases may qualify for promotional Apple Music or Apple News+ trials. Those offers are separate from a cash price reduction and should not be added to the headline discount. Apple’s Apple Music terms and Apple News+ terms state that subscriptions renew unless canceled, subject to the offer’s eligibility and terms.
Bottom line
The reported Prime Day promotion was real, but it should be read as a historical deal roundup rather than a guaranteed live sale. The best value depended on the exact product, generation, seller and condition: AirPods Pro 2 made sense for iPhone users at a deep discount, Beats Studio Pro was the strongest reported over-ear bargain, Powerbeats Pro 2 suited workouts, and Solo Buds offered the lowest entry price only when open-box compromises were acceptable. For a purchase today, compare those older-model prices with Apple’s current AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Max 2 before deciding that the larger percentage discount is the better financial choice.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
