Looking for the best place to sell your AirPods? Buyback platforms price AirPods very differently, and the same pair can fetch $35 on one site and $45 on another.
That gap adds up fast, especially on higher-value models like the AirPods Max, where the difference between platforms can reach up to $55.
To find out where your AirPods are worth the most, I pulled live quotes from three major buyback platforms (The Whiz Cells, ItsWorthMore, and BuyBackWorld) across six AirPods models, then compared their payment speed and payout options. Here’s what I found.
An Overview of Each Platform
The Whiz Cells is a veteran in the buyback industry, known for swift processing time and high payout rate. The Whiz Cells buys smartphones, tablets, audio devices, and smartwatches.
ItsWorthMore is another popular option, following the same playbook as The Whiz Cells: quote, ship, and get paid. ItsWorthMore buys more than the average electronic gadget. It dabbles in tech like gaming consoles, cameras, drones, VR headsets, monitors, and desktops. ItsWorthMore’s inspection takes 4 to 7 business days, and payment is processed 24 to 48 hours after that. An expedited option (PayPal or Zelle only) shortens inspection to 1 business day.
BuyBackWorld is another top contender that has been around since 2009. It has a broad catalog that accepts non-cellular electronics such as laptops and cameras. BuyBackWorld’s inspection takes 2 to 3 business days, and payment is issued within 2 business days after that.
These platforms have great similarities in structure but the difference becomes visible in the payout value and payment speed.
Before You Sell Your AirPods
A few quick steps protect your quote and keep the sale moving:
- Remove them from Find My: AirPods linked to your Apple ID can’t be used by the next owner, which can hold up your sale.
- Reset them: Follow Apple’s reset instructions for your specific model so they’re ready for a new owner.
- Include the charging case: The quotes above assume the original case is included, and missing it will lower your payout.
Payout Comparison: Who Pays More for AirPods?
| Device Category & Model | The Whiz Cells | BuyBackWorld | ItsWorthMore |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple AirPods Max | $175 | $120 | $165 |
| Apple AirPods Pro 3 | $70 | $85 | $50 |
| Apple AirPods Pro 2 | $46 | $35 | $40 |
| Apple AirPods 4th Gen (ANC) | $45 | $25 | $35 |
| Apple AirPods 4th Gen | $32 | $20 | $20 |
| Apple AirPods 3rd Gen | $18 | $10 | $15 |
Quotes were pulled directly from each platform on September 19th, 2026. Using excellent condition and available charging case for all devices.
Key Insights From The Data
The Whiz Cells Pays +34% More on Average
Across the six AirPods models, The Whiz Cells pays +34% more on average than the other two platforms. Broken down by competitor, that’s +47% more than BuyBackWorld and +28% more than ItsWorthMore.
The Whiz Cells Wins 5 out of 6 AirPods Models
The Whiz Cells offers the highest quote on five of the six models. The one exception is the AirPods Pro 3, where BuyBackWorld quotes $85 against $70 at The Whiz Cells.
The Biggest Percentage Gaps Are on Cheaper Models
The Whiz Cells’ lead is largest on standard AirPods. It pays +80% more than BuyBackWorld for both the AirPods 4th Gen (ANC) and the AirPods 3rd Gen, and +60% more than both competitors for the AirPods 4th Gen. The dollar amounts are smaller, but proportionally, choosing the wrong platform costs you the most on these models.
Noise Cancellation Adds Real Value
The ANC version of the AirPods 4th Gen consistently outsells the standard version. At The Whiz Cells, it fetches $45 versus $32, a +41% premium. If you’re unsure which version you own, check before getting a quote.
Lower Quotes on Standard AirPods
The three standard models (AirPods 4th Gen with ANC, AirPods 4th Gen, and AirPods 3rd Gen) carry relatively low quotes compared to the Pro models. The lowest-paying model, the 3rd Gen, fetches $10 at BuyBackWorld and $18 at The Whiz Cells.
Payment Speed and Options
The Whiz Cells is the fastest of the three. Payment is issued within 24 hours of receiving the device, often the same day.
BuyBackWorld inspects within 2 to 3 business days, then issues payment within 2 business days. ItsWorthMore takes longer, with inspection running 4 to 7 business days before the same 24 to 48 hour payment window.
All three platforms offer flexible payout options. The Whiz Cells pays via PayPal, bank transfer, Visa card, gift card, or check, while ItsWorthMore and BuyBackWorld offer similar options, including PayPal and check.
Final Verdict
The numbers speak for themselves, and The Whiz Cells stands out as the best place to sell your AirPods for top dollar. Not only that, The Whiz Cells pays much faster than most buybacks out there (within 24 hours of receiving the AirPods).
ItsWorthMore and BuyBackWorld are worth checking out if you need to sell tech gadgets outside AirPods, smartphones, tablets, and watches. Keep in mind, you may have to wait several business days after your device arrives before receiving payment.
Ready to sell? Head over to The Whiz Cells, choose your AirPods model, enter the device details, get your quote, ship, and get paid.
Frequently Asked Questions On Selling AirPods
Frequently Asked Questions On Selling AirPodsDoes The Whiz Cells accept AirPods?
Yes, The Whiz Cells recently added audio devices to its catalog, including AirPods.
How can I sell my AirPods for cash?
The easiest way is through a buyback platform like The Whiz Cells. Choose your AirPods model, enter its condition, and get an instant quote. Once you accept, ship your AirPods using the free shipping label, and payment is issued within 24 hours of The Whiz Cells receiving them, often the same day.
Where’s the best place to sell my AirPods?
Based on our comparison, The Whiz Cells is the best place to sell AirPods. It paid the most on five of the six models we compared and offered +34% more on average than ItsWorthMore and BuyBackWorld. It’s also the fastest to pay, issuing payment within 24 hours of receiving your device.
How much will I get if I sell my AirPods?
It depends on the model and condition. Based on quotes from September 2026, AirPods Max in excellent condition fetch up to $175, AirPods Pro 3 up to $85, and AirPods Pro 2 up to $46. Standard models sell for less, ranging from $10 to $45. Missing charging cases, physical damage, or weak batteries can lower your quote.
Can I sell my AirPods to Apple?
No. Apple Trade In doesn’t offer cash or credit for AirPods, but it will recycle them for free. If you want money for your AirPods, a buyback platform like The Whiz Cells is the better option.
Where can I sell my AirPods for cash?
You can sell AirPods for cash on buyback platforms like The Whiz Cells, ItsWorthMore, and BuyBackWorld, or through marketplaces like eBay and Facebook Marketplace. Buyback platforms are the simpler route, with instant quotes, free shipping, and no dealing with buyers. Among the three we compared, The Whiz Cells pays the most on most models.
Can I get money back for old AirPods?
Yes. Even older models like the AirPods 3rd Gen still have resale value, fetching up to $18 at The Whiz Cells. As long as your AirPods power on and aren’t water damaged, you can get a quote in minutes and get paid within 24 hours of The Whiz Cells receiving them.
