Skip To Main Content

Every product is carefully selected by our editors and experts. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
For more information on how we test products, click here.

Black Apple Airpods and case

Black Apple AirPods & AirPods Pros


Way back in early 2019, rumours were circulating that Apple would either launch black AirPods or the second generation of the popular wireless buds would be available in matte black. Instead, Apple went ahead and unveiled the AirPods Pro, upgraded with noise-cancelling, silicone ear tips and sweat and water-resistant build. While undeniably great, portable wireless buds, the AirPods Pro were only available in gloss white, as has been the case with every incarnation of AirPods and AirPods Pro since (i.e. AirPods 3rd Generation and AirPods Pro 2nd Generation).

With iPhones and Apple Watches having long been available in a wide range of colours, it makes sense for Apple to launch black AirPods, yet it hasn’t happened yet, and since the first Pro version launched, rumours of black options have subsided. The good news is you don’t have to settle for gloss white if you don’t want to. Here’s where you can find custom black AirPods and AirPods Pro:

Colorware Apple AirPods and case
Colorware Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) | Image: Colorware

Buy Black AirPods (3rd Generation)

For twenty years, Colorware has been offering unique customisation options for a wide variety of tech products. From PlayStation to Xbox, iPhones to MacBook, Colorware custom skins, paint jobs and branding can personalise your favourite products to suit your style. And yes, this includes the option of authentic black AirPods and AirPods Pro.

To score those elusive black buds, head over to the Colorware webpage via the link below, select Airpods, a wireless charging case or standard, then find gloss black or matte black on the colour palate.

Of course, the colours are not limited to black. You can select between basically every gloss and matte colour you can think of and can even select different colours for each bud and charging case if you desire. Whatever you choose, you’ll end up with a unique pair of buds.

Colorware Apple AirPods Pro and case
Colorware Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) | Image: Colorware

Buy Black AirPods Pro (2nd Generation)

Alternatively, Colorware also has authentic Apple AirPods Pro in black – matte or gloss – your choice, and other colours too. The upgraded version are the only in-ear headphones with active noise cancellation. This listening experience can be customised with three different sized tips to form an exceptional seal in your ear (these will remain white, but will be invisible during wear). This also raises the bar for the comfort and listening experience, as it’s no longer one size fits all. The compact, magnetic charging case which quickly charges the buds giving them a 24-hour battery life.

You’ll also like:
Apple Unveils $899 AirPods Max Over-Ear Headphones
12 Best Apple TV Apps For a Next Level Viewing Experience
Inside Apple’s Insane $5 Billion ‘Apple Park’ Headquarters

The Original Black AirPods Rumours

Leading up to the reveal of AirPods Pro, which were being referred to as AirPods 2, tech website MySmartPrice claimed a trusted source had tipped Apple to release AirPods 2 in 2019 with improved health monitors, wireless charging and a less slippery coating. Plus, the options of black and white colourways. Several of these new features proved to be correct. Others, like the black option, did not.

Beats Powerbeats Pro
Beats Powerbeats Pro. | Image: Beats by Dre

If you’re still looking for an official Apple-made alternative to Black AirPods, Apple Beat’s new wire-free Powerbeats Pro come with exactly the same technology as AirPods and are available in Black, Ivory, Navy and Moss without third-party intervention.

Buy them here

Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro
Samsung Galaxy Buds2 Pro. | Image: Samsung

Will Apple Release Matte Black AirPods?

We were initially blown away by Apple’s AirPods, which injected serious power and intelligence into an impressively compact design. Wireless earbuds continue to improve and have become wildly popular among listeners, young and old, and that’s in no small part thanks to the popularity of Apple’s buds – you’ll see Apple’s AirPods being worn by dozens of people on any average major city commute using public transport. Indeed, what was once deemed a controversial move is now an everyday thing, so much so that any negative association with “jack-less” phones has all but disappeared.

It’s a given that a fourth generation of AirPods and a third of AirPods Pro will release before too long. As to when and if black buds will be available… your guess is as good as ours. But you can be sure that we will let you know if and when they do. For now, Colorware is your best option.

Who Else is Making Black Earbuds Like Airpods?

Just because Apple isn’t making wireless earbuds in black doesn’t mean others brands aren’t championing the dark tone. Samsung’s impressive Galaxy Buds2 and Galaxy Buds2 Pro are available in a range of shades, including a handsome Graphite shade, which is near enough to black really. Then there’s Jabra, Bose, Klipsch, Sony and Amazon to name a few who have all launched wireless earbuds in black. So if the colour is a priority, shop around.

General FAQ

When will the next generation of Apple AirPods launch?

Apple is notoriously secretive, and as such has not given any hints regarding the next generation of AirPods or AirPods Pro or when they might be released. However, according to industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, the most likely scenario is for Apple’s next generation of AirPods (whatever form they might take) to ship in late 2024 or early 2025.

Are AirPods Pro worth the extra AUD$110 investment over standard AirPods?

For those that can afford the extra expense, the AirPods Pro are definitely worth the upgrade, delivering greater immersion, comfort, durability, and sound quality. The AUD$399 AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) offer a range of features the AUD$289 AirPods (3rd Generation) do not, such as Active Noise Cancellation, Adaptive Audio, Dust Resistance, and interchangeable Silicone Ear Tips for a more precise fit.

You’ll also like:
Apple Unveils $899 AirPods Max Over-Ear Headphones
12 Best Apple TV Apps For a Next Level Viewing Experience
Inside Apple’s Insane $5 Billion ‘Apple Park’ Headquarters