My AirPods were killing my ears. These $14 tips changed everything

My AirPods were killing my ears. These $14 tips changed everything

When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.

Ashley Biancuzzo

Associate Editor, PCWorld

I wear my AirPods every day, and these $14 silicone tips completely changed how comfortable they are.

View on Amazon

Captivating side view of a young woman wearing wireless earbuds, caught in motion.
Photo: Darina Belonogova / Pexels

I’m something of a fiend when it comes to music. Kate Bush. Genesis. The Beatles. It’s the fuel I need to keep going. Not only does it help me generate new ideas for articles, but it also helps keep me in a more relaxed state throughout the day (I’m a naturally anxious, high-energy person). 

AdvertisementDon't Outlive Your Benefits — Long-Term Care insurance with unlimited LTC funds for as long as you live. Call 1-800-317-0625

That’s why I use my AirPods on a daily basis. Whether I’m sitting down to write or puttering around the house tidying up, I pop them in. While I love how convenient AirPods are (no cords!), I wear them for hours at a time, which causes quite a bit of ear pain. 

AdvertisementDon't Outlive Your Benefits — Long-Term Care insurance with unlimited LTC funds for as long as you live. Call 1-800-317-0625

It’s always my right ear canal that gives me trouble, and I have no idea why. It disrupts my whole routine and really kills the vibe I’ve set for the day.

So I decided to try these $14 silicone tips on a whim, and boy, did they make a difference. Not only do they slip onto the AirPods easily (no stretching or molding them to fit), they also don’t add any noticeable bulk. The soft silicone makes the AirPods much more comfortable to wear.

A neatly arranged desk with a laptop, iPad, smartwatch, AirPods, and candle.
Photo: Melike B / Pexels

After just a few days with those silicone tips, my ear pain went away. I no longer had to constantly adjust the AirPods or take breaks due to discomfort. I could just get on with my work without the pain.

AdvertisementDon't Outlive Your Benefits — Long-Term Care insurance with unlimited LTC funds for as long as you live. Call 1-800-317-0625

Just one thing to keep in mind, though. The silicone tips don’t fit inside the AirPods case. It’s not a big deal because they slip on so easily (like slippers!), but it’s still worth noting.

AdvertisementDon't Outlive Your Benefits — Long-Term Care insurance with unlimited LTC funds for as long as you live. Call 1-800-317-0625

If your AirPods are making your ears sore, these are definitely worth a try. They come in black, white, and blue, and now I can lose myself for hours in my extensive playlist without ever thinking about my ears.

Read More

Join the conversation

Your email address will not be published. Be respectful — keep it constructive.

AdvertisementDon't Outlive Your Benefits — Long-Term Care insurance with unlimited LTC funds for as long as you live. Call 1-800-317-0625
AdvertisementDon't Outlive Your Benefits — Long-Term Care insurance with unlimited LTC funds for as long as you live. Call 1-800-317-0625