How to Change the Earbuds on Airpod Pros: How to Change the…

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Hey there! Got your AirPods Pro and ready to roll, but those ear tips just aren’t clicking? Don’t worry, it’s a common issue! Finding the right fit is crucial for both comfort and sound quality. This guide will walk you through, step-by-step, how to change the earbuds on your AirPods Pro.

We’ll cover everything from removing the existing ear tips to selecting the perfect size for your ears. Whether you’re upgrading to the latest generation AirPods Pro or simply need a refresher, this is your go-to resource. A good fit means better sound, and a comfortable fit means you can enjoy your music, podcasts, or calls for longer. Let’s get started!

Understanding Your Airpods Pro Ear Tips

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s get acquainted with the ear tips themselves. The AirPods Pro come with a set of silicone ear tips, usually in three sizes: small, medium, and large. Some models may include an extra-small size. These tips are designed to create a seal in your ear canal, which is essential for noise cancellation and optimal sound performance. The ear tips are also designed to be easily removable and replaceable.

The ear tips are crucial for the AirPods Pro’s functionality. They not only provide a snug fit but also play a critical role in the active noise cancellation (ANC) feature. A proper seal blocks out external noise, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your audio. Without a good fit, the ANC won’t be as effective, and you might experience a loss of bass and overall sound quality.

Why Changing Ear Tips Matters

Why bother changing the ear tips? Several reasons! First and foremost, **comfort**. The default size might not fit everyone perfectly. Ill-fitting ear tips can cause discomfort, ear fatigue, or even make your ears sore after extended use. Secondly, **sound quality**. A proper seal is paramount for the best audio experience, especially when using noise cancellation. Finally, **hygiene**. Over time, ear tips can accumulate earwax and debris. Replacing them ensures you’re maintaining a clean and hygienic listening experience.

Identifying Your Current Ear Tip Size

Before you start swapping, figure out what size you’re currently using. Apple usually includes a size test within the AirPods Pro settings. Here’s how to check:

Connect your AirPods Pro to your iPhone or iPad. Make sure they’re in your ears and connected via Bluetooth.
Go to Settings. Tap on your AirPods Pro in the list of devices.
Tap ‘Ear Tip Fit Test’. Follow the on-screen instructions. The test will play a short sound and analyze the seal in your ears.
Review the results. The test will tell you if the fit is good or if you should try a different size.

If the test recommends a different size, or if you’re experiencing discomfort, it’s time to change the ear tips.

How to Remove the Existing Ear Tips

Removing the ear tips is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it safely and effectively:

Grip the ear tip firmly. Hold the AirPod Pro stem in one hand and the ear tip in the other.
Gently pull the ear tip. Twist and pull the ear tip away from the AirPod Pro. The ear tip is held in place by a small, secure clip, so a little bit of force is needed, but be gentle to avoid damaging the AirPod Pro.
Repeat for the other AirPod Pro. Do the same for the other earbud.

It’s that simple! Keep the removed ear tips in a safe place if you want to reuse them later. If you’re replacing the tips, you can discard the old ones. It’s often a good idea to clean the AirPods Pro themselves with a soft, lint-free cloth before attaching the new ear tips.

Attaching New Ear Tips to Your Airpods Pro

Now for the other half of the process – attaching the new ear tips. Here’s what you need to do:

Align the ear tip. Look closely at the new ear tip and the AirPod Pro. You’ll notice a small oval-shaped opening on the AirPod Pro that the ear tip needs to align with.
Push the ear tip onto the AirPod Pro. Align the new ear tip with the oval opening on the AirPod Pro and firmly push the ear tip onto the AirPod Pro. You should hear a slight click or feel a secure connection.
Test the fit. Gently tug on the ear tip to ensure it’s securely attached. Repeat the process for the other AirPod Pro.

Make sure the ear tips are properly seated. If they’re not fully attached, they might come loose while in use, or the noise cancellation might not work effectively. Take your time during this step to ensure a good connection.

Choosing the Right Ear Tip Size

Finding the perfect fit is key. Here’s how to determine the right size for you:

Use the Ear Tip Fit Test. As mentioned earlier, the Ear Tip Fit Test in the AirPods Pro settings is a great starting point.
Try different sizes. If the fit test suggests a different size, try it! Wear the AirPods Pro with the new ear tips for a while to see how they feel.
Pay attention to comfort. The ear tips should feel snug but not too tight. They shouldn’t cause any pressure or discomfort.
Consider external noise. If you’re still hearing a lot of external noise, the ear tips might not be creating a proper seal.

Experimentation is key. Don’t be afraid to try different sizes until you find the perfect fit. Some people may even find that they need different sizes for each ear!

Understanding Ear Tip Materials

Apple’s original ear tips are made of silicone, a common material for in-ear headphones because it’s soft, flexible, and generally hypoallergenic. However, there are also aftermarket ear tips available in various materials. Let’s delve into different materials:

Silicone: The standard material. Silicone ear tips are durable, easy to clean, and provide a good seal. They’re also usually the most affordable option.
Memory Foam: Memory foam ear tips expand to fill your ear canal, creating a more personalized fit and enhancing noise isolation. They can provide a more comfortable fit for some users, especially for extended listening sessions. However, they may need more frequent replacement as they degrade faster than silicone. They also require more regular cleaning.
Foam: Similar to memory foam, foam ear tips offer excellent noise isolation and comfort. They’re often made of a more porous material than memory foam.
Hybrid: Some ear tips combine different materials, such as a silicone core with a memory foam exterior, to offer the benefits of both.

When selecting aftermarket ear tips, consider the material, the fit, and the noise isolation performance. Read reviews and compare different options to find the best fit for your needs.

Cleaning and Maintaining Your Ear Tips

Regular cleaning is essential for hygiene and to maintain the performance of your AirPods Pro. Here’s how:

Remove the ear tips. Detach the ear tips from your AirPods Pro.
Clean the ear tips. Gently wipe the ear tips with a soft, slightly damp, lint-free cloth. You can use a mild soap solution if necessary, but make sure to rinse them thoroughly and let them dry completely before reattaching them.
Clean the AirPods Pro. Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to clean the AirPods Pro themselves. Avoid getting any moisture into the charging case or the AirPod Pro’s speaker.
Dry thoroughly. Ensure both the ear tips and the AirPods Pro are completely dry before reassembling.

Cleaning your ear tips regularly will prevent the build-up of earwax and debris, and it will help to maintain the longevity of your AirPods Pro.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go perfectly. Here’s how to troubleshoot common issues:

Ear tips won’t stay on: Make sure you’re aligning the ear tip correctly with the oval opening on the AirPod Pro. Push firmly until you feel a click. If the issue persists, the ear tip might be damaged or not compatible.
Poor noise cancellation: Check the fit. Ensure the ear tips are creating a good seal. Try a different size. Also, make sure that the noise cancellation feature is enabled in your settings.
Discomfort: Experiment with different sizes and materials. If the discomfort persists, you might need to try a different brand or style of ear tips.
Sound quality issues: Check that the ear tips are clean and properly attached. A poor seal will affect bass and overall sound quality.

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and are still experiencing issues, consider contacting Apple Support or visiting an Apple Store.

Aftermarket Ear Tips: Exploring Your Options

While Apple’s included ear tips are good, there are many aftermarket options available. These can offer different materials, improved comfort, or enhanced noise isolation. Here are some popular brands and types:

Comply Foam Tips: Known for their memory foam construction, Comply ear tips conform to your ear canal for a secure fit and excellent noise isolation. They’re a popular choice for improving sound quality and comfort.
SpinFit CP360: SpinFit ear tips feature a unique design that allows the ear tip to swivel, providing a more comfortable and secure fit. They’re known for their durability and improved sound performance.
Dekoni Audio: Dekoni Audio offers a range of high-quality foam ear tips designed to enhance the audio experience and provide superior noise isolation.
Other Brands: Many other brands offer various ear tip options, including silicone, foam, and hybrid designs.

When choosing aftermarket ear tips, consider the material, the fit, and the noise isolation performance. Read reviews and compare different options to find the best fit for your needs. Always ensure the ear tips are compatible with your specific AirPods Pro model.

Comparing Ear Tip Materials: A Quick Guide

Material	Pros	Cons	Best For
Silicone	Durable, easy to clean, affordable	May not fit all ears perfectly, can slip	General use, everyday listening
Memory Foam	Excellent noise isolation, comfortable fit	Requires more frequent replacement, can trap heat	Improved noise cancellation, extended listening sessions
Foam	Excellent noise isolation, good comfort	Can degrade quickly, may require more frequent cleaning	Enhanced noise isolation, critical listening
Hybrid	Combines benefits of different materials	Can be more expensive, may not fit all ears	Users seeking a balance of comfort and performance

Consider your priorities when choosing ear tips. If comfort is your primary concern, memory foam or foam might be a good choice. If durability and ease of cleaning are more important, silicone might be better. Experiment to find the best fit for your ears.

Tips for a Perfect Fit

Here are some additional tips for achieving the perfect fit:

Try different sizes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with all the sizes included with your AirPods Pro, and consider trying different sizes in each ear.
Pay attention to pressure. The ear tips should create a seal without causing excessive pressure. If you feel pressure, try a smaller size.
Consider your activity. If you’re using your AirPods Pro while exercising, you might need a more secure fit.
Clean your ears regularly. Remove any earwax buildup to ensure a good seal.
Consult reviews. Read reviews of different ear tips to get insights from other users.

Finding the right ear tip size is an ongoing process. You might find that your preferred size changes over time. Be patient, experiment, and enjoy the improved sound and comfort!

Verdict

Changing the ear tips on your AirPods Pro is a simple but important process that significantly impacts your listening experience. By understanding the different ear tip sizes and materials, and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a comfortable fit, optimize noise cancellation, and enjoy the best possible sound quality. Remember to prioritize comfort and experiment with different options to find the perfect fit for your ears.

Regularly cleaning and maintaining your ear tips will extend their lifespan and ensure a hygienic listening experience. Don’t hesitate to explore aftermarket options to further enhance your audio experience. With the right ear tips, your AirPods Pro will sound and feel better than ever.

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