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Apple AirPods 2 flash sale: $129, today only (Update: Sold out)

That's a solid discount on the popular true-wireless earphones, meaning they may sell out quickly.

Rick Broida Senior Editor
Rick Broida is the author of numerous books and thousands of reviews, features and blog posts. He writes CNET's popular Cheapskate blog and co-hosts Protocol 1: A Travelers Podcast (about the TV show Travelers). He lives in Michigan, where he previously owned two escape rooms (chronicled in the ebook "I Was a Middle-Aged Zombie").
Rick Broida
2 min read
13-airpods-2nd-generation

They're still too expensive, but at least you can save a few bucks on Apple's AirPods.

Sarah Tew/CNET

Don't get me started on Apple AirPods pricing, okay? Let's just agree they're annoyingly expensive and leave it at that. But when there's a deal to be had, even a modest one, I'm going to share it -- because saving a few bucks is better than saving no bucks.

Today only, and while supplies last, Macy's has the 2nd-generation Apple AirPods for $129 shipped. Price pretty much everywhere else: $159. Amazon has been selling the AirPods 2 for $109.99, but often price-matches other stores. I'll update the post if and when I see that happen.

It's worth noting, however, Amazon continues to offer the Apple AirPods with Wireless Charging Case for $199.99.

If I'm being totally honest, the AirPods are just about my all-time favorite earphones (for running). They fit my ears perfectly, they're a pleasure to use and they don't totally block ambient sound (meaning I can still hear when cars or cyclists approach). Being even more honest, I wish I'd sprung for the wireless charging case -- though I have to charge them so infrequently, it's hardly an issue.

That said, there are so many great inexpensive alternatives to AirPods. But maybe steer clear of outright imitations, because the $35 AirPod knockoffs I tested were pretty poor overall.

Originally published on July 1.
Update, July 8: Lower price from different seller.

AirPods (second generation) from all angles

See all photos
Watch this: AirPods 2nd-generation: Not really 2.0, but definitely enhanced

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