Silicone ear tips: which size fits you?

The silicone ear tips of your Pro earbuds determine comfort, sound quality and noise cancelling. The right size makes a world of difference. In this article you'll learn how to find the perfect fit.

Why are the right ear tips so important?

AirPods Pro use active noise cancellation that only works with a good seal. Tips that are too small cause sound leaks, tips that are too large are uncomfortable. The right size ensures optimal bass, effective noise cancelling and long-lasting wearing comfort.

Which sizes are there?

Apple supplies AirPods Pro with three sizes of silicone ear tips:

Small (S)

For smaller ear canals. Recognisable by the small ring inside.

Medium (M)

Standard size, pre-installed on delivery. Fits most people.

Large (L)

For larger ear canals. Provides more seal but can feel tight for some.

AirPods Pro 2 also added an Extra Small (XS) size for people with a very small ear canal.

Using the Ear Tip Fit Test

  1. Put both AirPods Pro in your ears with the standard tips.
  2. Open Settings on your iPhone.
  3. Go to Bluetooth and tap the (i) next to your AirPods Pro.
  4. Choose 'Ear Tip Fit Test'.
  5. Tap 'Continue' and stay quiet during the test.
  6. After a few seconds your iPhone shows whether the fit is 'Good'.

Getting 'Adjust' as a result? Then try a different size. It's normal for left and right to need different sizes.

How do you replace the ear tips?

  1. Grip the silicone tip firmly at the base.
  2. Pull the tip straight off the AirPod (don't twist).
  3. Align the new tip with the oval opening.
  4. Press the tip on until you hear or feel a click.
  5. Check that the tip is firmly attached by pulling on it lightly.

The tips click into place. If the tip doesn't click, it isn't properly attached.

When should you replace ear tips?

Ear tips wear out over time. Replace them when you notice:

  • Reduced noise cancelling effectiveness
  • The tips become loose or fall out
  • Visible tears or deformation in the silicone
  • Discolouration that can no longer be cleaned
  • Uncomfortable wearing feel after prolonged use

Check out our AirPods Pro silicone ear tips for replacement.

Third-party ear tips

Many alternative ear tips are available, including memory foam variants. These can offer a different fit and sound experience.

Please note: Apple's Ear Tip Fit Test only works reliably with original Apple ear tips. With third-party tips you have to judge the fit yourself.

Cleaning ear tips

  1. Remove the tips from your AirPods Pro.
  2. Rinse with clean water (no soap).
  3. Pat dry with a lint-free cloth.
  4. Let them dry completely before putting them back.
  5. Also clean the speaker opening of the AirPods.

Clean your ear tips weekly for optimal hygiene and sound quality.

Compatibility per model

Please note: AirPods Pro 1 and AirPods Pro 2 use different ear tips. They are not interchangeable.

Not sure which AirPods Pro you have? Check our model identification guide

Frequently asked questions

Can I use different sizes for left and right?

Yes, many people have a slightly different ear canal on each side. It's completely normal to use, for example, Medium on the left and Small on the right.

Do AirPods Pro 1 tips fit AirPods Pro 2?

No, the ear tips are not interchangeable between generations. They have a different shape and attachment.

Why do my ear tips keep falling out?

This can be due to worn tips, the wrong size, or ear tips that aren't clicked on properly. Try a different size or new tips.

Does noise cancelling work better with larger tips?

Not necessarily. You get the best noise cancelling with tips that seal well. That's usually the size that fits best, not the largest.

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