Apple Lowers AirPods 5 Price, Adds Volume Controls

Apple has unveiled a new iteration of its popular AirPods that, while visually indistinguishable from the previous generation, offers a more attractive price‑to‑performance ratio. The AirPods 5, sold with a wireless‑charging case for $149, are $30 less expensive than the AirPods 4 with active noise cancellation (ANC) that they effectively replace. In addition to the cost savings, the new model delivers marginally improved ANC and introduces volume controls on the stem—features that had previously been exclusive to the Pro line.

The company’s decision to price the AirPods 5 below its predecessor marks a departure from the trend of raising prices with each refresh. The base version of the AirPods 5, priced $20 lower than the wireless‑charging variant, lacks both the wireless‑charging case and the stem volume controls, rendering it a less compelling option for most consumers. Apple’s move underscores its strategy to broaden the appeal of its earbuds by offering more functionality at a lower price point.

Overall, the AirPods 5 represent a modest upgrade that balances cost, design, and new features. By trimming the price and adding practical controls, Apple has positioned the new earbuds as a competitive choice in the wireless‑earbud market, while the stripped‑down base model highlights the value proposition of the higher‑priced variant.