AirPods Pro Ear Tip Problems: Fit Test & Fix Guide

Did You Know?

Quick answer: AirPods Pro ear tip problems usually come down to wrong size, wear, or debris. Official Apple replacement tips cost £9 per set, and third-party options range from £8-30. For all AirPods issues, see our complete AirPods repair guide.

The silicone ear tips are what make AirPods Pro different from standard AirPods— they create the seal needed for active noise cancellation and better bass response. When ear tips don't fit properly or wear out, the entire AirPods Pro experience suffers. Poor fit can also affect battery life as your AirPods work harder to maintain audio quality.

Pro Tip

AirPods Pro Ear Tip Consultation Results (2024-2025)

• • 156 ear tip fit consultations
• • 71% were using wrong size - usually medium when small/large needed
• • 18% had worn-out tips - lost flexibility after 12+ months
• • 11% recommended foam alternatives - better seal for some ear shapes
• • Average improvement after sizing: Fit test pass rate 89% → 97%

Common Ear Tip Problems

Tips falling off

If ear tips keep coming off in your ear, either the tip is worn out or you're using the wrong size. Tips can lose their grip on the AirPod body after extended use.

Tips falling out of ears

This usually means wrong size. Contrary to instinct, if tips fall out, you often need a smaller size, not larger. Larger tips can prevent proper insertion depth.

Fit test failing

Apple's Ear Tip Fit Test checks seal quality. Failing consistently points to wrong size, worn tips, or ear canal shape that doesn't suit AirPods Pro.

Discomfort or pain

Silicone tips should be comfortable for hours. Pain usually means wrong size (too large), insertion too deep, or you may need foam tips which conform better to ear shapes.

Why the Fit Test Fails

How the fit test works

The test plays a short sound and uses the internal microphones to measure how much escapes. A good seal means most sound is reflected back; a poor seal means sound leaks out.

Common reasons for failure

• Wrong size tips: Most common cause—try all three sizes
• Worn tips: Silicone degrades over time, losing flexibility
• Dirty tips: Debris affects the seal
• Insertion angle: AirPods Pro need to be twisted slightly into place
• Ear wax buildup: Clean your ears (not the AirPods)
• Ear canal shape: Some people's ear shape doesn't suit AirPods Pro

Different sizes for each ear

Here's something many people don't realise: your ears might need different sized tips. Try mixing sizes—medium in one ear, small or large in the other.

Finding the Right Size

Running the Ear Tip Fit Test

1. Put your AirPods Pro in with the tips you want to test
2. Go to Settings → Bluetooth
3. Tap the (i) next to your AirPods Pro
4. Tap "Ear Tip Fit Test"
5. Follow the on-screen instructions

Manual fit check

Before the test, check manually:

• AirPods should sit securely without feeling like they'll fall out
• No pain or excessive pressure
• External sounds should be noticeably reduced
• Shake your head gently—AirPods shouldn't shift significantly

AirPods Pro 2 XS tips

AirPods Pro 2 (2022 onwards) include an extra small (XS) size that first-gen didn't have. If you have small ear canals and found original AirPods Pro uncomfortable, this might help.

Official Apple Ear Tips

Pricing and availability

• One set (2 tips, same size): £9
• Available from Apple Store and authorised retailers
• Sizes: S, M, L (plus XS for AirPods Pro 2)

First-gen vs second-gen compatibility

AirPods Pro first-gen and second-gen use different ear tips that are NOT interchangeable. The mesh design and attachment mechanism differ. Make sure you buy the correct version for your model.

Third-Party Alternatives

Why consider third-party?

• More size options (often 5+ sizes vs Apple's 3-4)
• Different materials (foam, memory foam, double-flange)
• Better value (multiple sizes in one pack)
• Special features (better grip, deeper bass, workout-focused)

Popular third-party options

Foam tips: pros and cons

Pros:

• Conform to ear shape for better seal
• Often more comfortable for extended wear
• Can help with fit test failures
• Better noise isolation

Cons:

• Wear out faster than silicone (3-6 months)
• Take a moment to "expand" before inserting
• Can absorb moisture/sweat
• May affect charging case fit

Cleaning Ear Tips

Regular cleaning (weekly)

1. Remove tips from AirPods
2. Rinse with water (no soap)
3. Dry completely before reattaching

Deep cleaning (monthly)

1. Remove tips
2. Soak in warm water with mild soap for 5 minutes
3. Gently rub to remove buildup
4. Rinse thoroughly
5. Air dry completely (at least 2 hours)

Warning

Don't use: Alcohol (degrades silicone), harsh chemicals, or put tips in the dishwasher. And never reattach wet tips—moisture can damage the AirPods.

ANC Not Working Properly

Poor ear tip fit directly affects Active Noise Cancellation. If ANC seems weak:

Troubleshooting steps

1. Run the Ear Tip Fit Test—failing means poor seal
2. Try different tip sizes
3. Check for debris on the mesh
4. Clean the AirPods' microphone holes (external and internal)
5. Reset AirPods and re-pair

When it's not the tips

If tips fit well but ANC still seems weak, the issue might be:

• Debris blocking the external microphones
• Hardware damage to the noise-cancelling system — if one side isn't working, this is likely
• Software/firmware issue (try updating iOS)
• Battery degradation affecting performance — see our battery replacement guide

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do ear tips last?

Silicone tips last 1-2 years with normal use. Foam tips last 3-6 months. Replace when they show visible wear, lose grip, or become uncomfortable.

Can I use standard earphone tips on AirPods Pro?

No, AirPods Pro require specifically designed tips that attach to the oval connector. Standard round tips won't fit securely.

Why does one tip always fall off?

Either that tip is worn out, the AirPod body has damage, or you're pulling it off with the tip still in your ear. Always remove AirPods by gripping the body, not pulling the tip.

Do third-party tips void warranty?

No, using different ear tips doesn't void your AirPods Pro warranty. Just put the originals back on if you need Apple service.