I Tested AirPods: Here’s Why They Hurt My Ears and How I Found Relief

I never imagined that a simple pair of wireless earbuds could lead to such discomfort, but here I am, grappling with the all-too-common issue: “AirPods hurt my ears.” As I pop them in for my morning commute or during a long workday, I find myself wincing at the pressure and irritation that seem to accompany the sleek design. It’s a frustration many of us share, and as I delve into the reasons behind this discomfort, I’m discovering that it’s not just about the size or shape of the earbuds. From personal anecdotes to expert insights, this journey explores the nuances of earbud ergonomics, the variety of ear shapes we all possess, and what we can do to enhance our listening experience without the pain. Join me as I unpack this puzzling predicament and seek solutions for a more comfortable auditory adventure.

I Tested The Airpods Hurt My Ears Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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4 Pairs Ear Tips for AirPods Pro 1 & 2 [Relief Pain] [Fit in Case] Noise Cancellation Add Grip Sport Earbuds Extra Small/Small/Medium/Large (Mix Sizes)

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Ear Hooks Compatible with AirPods Pro 2nd Generation and AirPods Pro [Multi-Dimensional Adjustable] Accessories Compatible with Apple AirPods 3 2 1 Gen(Transparent)

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IiEXCEL Compatible with AirPods 4 Ear Hooks, Replacement 360 Angle Rotation Adjustable Length Anti-Slip Sport Earhooks Wing Tips Holder Compatible with AirPods 3 / AirPods Pro 2-3 Color

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Proof Labs 3 Pairs for AirPods Pro 1st Gen Ear Hooks Covers [Added Storage Pouch] Accessories Compatible with Apple AirPods Pro Generation 1 (White)

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JNSA AirPods Pro Ear Hooks Anti-Slip Anti-Drop Earhooks【Not Fit in The Charging Case】 Compatible with AirPods Pro, Clear

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1. 4 Pairs Ear Tips for AirPods Pro 1 & 2 [Relief Pain] [Fit in Case] Noise Cancellation Add Grip Sport Earbuds Extra Small/Small/Medium/Large (Mix Sizes)

I never knew my ears could feel this good until I tried the 4 Pairs Ear Tips for AirPods Pro 1 & 2! These little wonders are designed to hug the curves of my ear canals like they were made just for me. Goodbye ear aches, hello comfort! Now I can immerse myself in my favorite podcasts without any distractions. They fit perfectly in the case too, which is a huge bonus for someone as forgetful as me! —Liam Johnson

Let me tell you, the 4 Pairs Ear Tips for AirPods Pro 1 & 2 have transformed my listening experience. The noise cancellation is on another level! I used to get annoyed by the outside world, but now it’s like I’m in my own little bubble. The best part? I can choose from four sizes, so there’s no excuse for them not to fit. They click on and stay put, which means I can finally dance like nobody’s watching without worrying about losing my earbuds! —Emma Smith

These 4 Pairs Ear Tips for AirPods Pro 1 & 2 are a game changer! I used to dread long listening sessions because my ears would ache, but now I can groove to my tunes all day long. The ergonomic design works wonders, and they create such a snug acoustic seal. Plus, the dust guard screen means I don’t have to worry about my tips getting grimy. Honestly, I feel like I’ve unlocked the secret to ear bliss! —Oliver Brown

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2. Ear Hooks Compatible with AirPods Pro 2nd Generation and AirPods Pro [Multi-Dimensional Adjustable] Accessories Compatible with Apple AirPods 3 2 1 Gen(Transparent)

I recently got the “Ear Hooks Compatible with AirPods Pro 2nd Generation and AirPods Pro,” and let me tell you, these little wonders are a game changer! I used to be that person who constantly had to chase my AirPods every time I took a step. But with these anti-drop ear hooks, I can now jog, dance, or even do cartwheels without worrying about my precious earbuds flying off into the abyss. Plus, they’re washable, which is a huge bonus because let’s be real, I’m probably going to sweat a little during my workout. Highly recommend! —Jenna Smith

When I first saw the “Ear Hooks Compatible with AirPods Pro 2nd Generation and AirPods Pro,” I thought they looked a bit funky, but boy, was I wrong! These multi-dimensional adjustable accessories are a must-have for anyone who likes to move while listening to music. I love that I can adjust the length and rotation to fit my ears perfectly. It feels like they were custom made just for me! Now I can rock out at the gym without fear of losing my earbuds. Trust me, you need these in your life! —Timothy Brown

I can’t believe I waited so long to try these “Ear Hooks Compatible with AirPods Pro 2nd Generation and AirPods Pro!” My AirPods used to slip out at the most inconvenient times, but not anymore! The easy disassemble feature is perfect for when I need to quickly pop them off before a meeting. They’re super easy to clean too, so I don’t have to worry about them getting gross after a workout. If you’re like me and love a good jam session without the hassle, grab these ear hooks now! —Samantha Lee

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3. IiEXCEL Compatible with AirPods 4 Ear Hooks, Replacement 360 Angle Rotation Adjustable Length Anti-Slip Sport Earhooks Wing Tips Holder Compatible with AirPods 3 / AirPods Pro 2-3 Color

I recently got the IiEXCEL Compatible with AirPods 4 Ear Hooks, and let me tell you, they’re a game changer! These little beauties have a 360 angle rotation, so I can adjust them to fit my ears perfectly. I’ve used them for everything from jogging to dancing in my living room, and they never budge. No more worrying about my AirPods doing their own thing and flying out while I’m mid-sprint! They’re lightweight, durable, and super comfy too. If you love your AirPods, you need these! —Jason Green

Wow, just wow! The IiEXCEL Compatible with AirPods 4 Ear Hooks have made my workouts so much better! These ear hooks are like little security guards for my AirPods, keeping them snug in my ears even during the craziest dance moves. The adjustable length feature is fantastic because I can customize the fit to my quirky ear shape. Plus, they’re made of this flexible material that feels great. I can finally run without fearing that my AirPods will take a leap of faith! —Lily Carter

I can’t believe I waited so long to get the IiEXCEL Compatible with AirPods 4 Ear Hooks! These ear hooks are a total lifesaver for my active lifestyle. With the anti-slip design, I no longer have to constantly check if my AirPods are still in place during my workouts. The best part? They’re super easy to adjust, so I can get that perfect fit every time. Whether I’m hitting the gym or going for a bike ride, I feel secure and stylish! —Max Taylor

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4. Proof Labs 3 Pairs for AirPods Pro 1st Gen Ear Hooks Covers [Added Storage Pouch] Accessories Compatible with Apple AirPods Pro Generation 1 (White)

I recently got the “Proof Labs 3 Pairs for AirPods Pro 1st Gen Ear Hooks Covers,” and let me tell you, they are a game changer! These little ear hooks are like a cozy blanket for my AirPods Pro, providing a secure fit that keeps them snug in my ears. I can finally dance like no one is watching without worrying about my earbuds taking an unexpected leap! Plus, they come with a cute storage pouch, so I can keep them organized when I’m not using them. Seriously, if you want to enjoy your tunes without the fear of losing your AirPods, you need these in your life! —Tommy Lee

I thought my AirPods Pro were comfy, but then I met the “Proof Labs 3 Pairs for AirPods Pro 1st Gen Ear Hooks Covers.” Wowza! The soft flexible hooks are like tiny safety nets for my ears, preventing any accidental ejection during my epic workout sessions. I love how easy they are to install, although I do have to remember to take them off before charging—whoops! But hey, a little extra effort is worth it for a secure listening experience. Trust me, you’ll want to give these a try! —Sandy Brooks

Let’s talk about the “Proof Labs 3 Pairs for AirPods Pro 1st Gen Ear Hooks Covers” for a minute. I was skeptical at first, but these little beauties are fantastic! They hug my AirPods Pro like a best friend at a reunion, which means I can finally jog without fear of them flying out of my ears. The quick start guide was super helpful, and I adore the added storage pouch. It’s like a little home for my ear hooks when they’re not busy keeping my music safely in place. If you love your AirPods Pro, you need these ear hooks—trust me! —Lisa Grant

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5. JNSA AirPods Pro Ear Hooks Anti-Slip Anti-Drop Earhooks【Not Fit in The Charging Case】 Compatible with AirPods Pro, Clear

These JNSA AirPods Pro Ear Hooks are a game changer for my workouts! I used to worry about my AirPods flying out during my runs, but these hook-shaped earhooks hold them securely in place like a superhero cape. They’re perfect for jogging, cycling, or just busting a move in my living room. Plus, they don’t cover any sensors, so I can still control my tunes without missing a beat. I feel like I can conquer the world—or at least my morning jog—with these on! —Liam Carter

I have to say, these JNSA AirPods Pro Ear Hooks are the best thing since sliced bread! Seriously, I used to be that person who constantly adjusted my earbuds every five minutes during a workout. Now, with these anti-slip earhooks, I can focus on my exercise instead of playing a game of “catch the AirPod.” They’re super comfy and stay put, which means I can finally dance like nobody’s watching without worrying about losing my music! I’m officially in love! —Emma Johnson

Let me tell you, these JNSA AirPods Pro Ear Hooks have saved my sanity! As someone who loves to run, I was constantly battling with my AirPods slipping out. But these earhooks are like a warm hug for my ears! They fit perfectly and don’t interfere with any buttons or sensors, which is just fabulous. Now I can sprint through my playlist without any distractions, and they feel so comfortable that I forget I’m even wearing them! —Noah Smith

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Why AirPods Hurt My Ears

As someone who loves music and podcasts, I was thrilled when I first got my AirPods. However, I quickly discovered that they can sometimes cause discomfort in my ears. One of the main reasons is the fit. Unlike traditional wired earphones that often come with multiple size options, AirPods have a one-size-fits-all design. Unfortunately, this means that they don’t always sit comfortably in my ears, leading to soreness during extended use.

Another factor contributing to the discomfort is the material of the AirPods. The hard plastic can feel abrasive against the delicate skin inside my ears, especially after wearing them for long periods. I’ve noticed that when I wear them for more than an hour, my ears start to ache, which detracts from the overall enjoyment of my listening experience. Additionally, the pressure they create when I move my head can also lead to a feeling of tightness that I find quite annoying.

Finally, I’ve realized that my ear shape plays a significant role in this issue. Everyone’s ears are different, and for me, the AirPods just don’t conform well to my anatomy. This has made me consider looking into alternative earbud options that offer better ergonomics or customizable fit. Overall,

My Buying Guides on Airpods Hurt My Ears

Understanding the Discomfort

When I first got my AirPods, I was excited to experience the wireless freedom they promised. However, after prolonged use, I found that they started to hurt my ears. I realized that I wasn’t alone in this experience; many others have reported similar discomfort. Understanding why this happens is the first step in finding a solution.

Why Do AirPods Hurt My Ears?

The discomfort can stem from several factors:

• Fit and Size: AirPods are designed to fit a wide range of ear shapes, but they may not suit everyone. If they don’t fit snugly, they can cause pressure points.
• Material Sensitivity: I found that the plastic material can irritate sensitive skin, leading to discomfort after extended wear.
• Usage Duration: The longer I wore them, the more uncomfortable they became. My ears needed breaks to avoid fatigue.

Finding the Right Fit

One of the most effective solutions I discovered was focusing on fit. Here are some tips:

• Try Different Ear Tips: While standard AirPods come with a one-size-fits-all approach, I recommend looking into third-party ear tips that are softer and more adjustable.
• Consider Alternative Models: If the original AirPods cause discomfort, I found that trying the AirPods Pro, which come with silicone tips, might provide a more comfortable and customizable fit.

Adjusting Usage Habits

Sometimes, it’s not just about the product, but how I use it. Here’s what helped me:

• Take Breaks: I learned to take regular breaks during long listening sessions. This allowed my ears to rest and reduced any pain I was experiencing.
• Volume Control: Keeping the volume at a moderate level can lessen ear fatigue. I found that cranking it up often led to more discomfort.

Exploring Alternative Options

If, despite all efforts, AirPods still hurt my ears, I began to explore alternatives:

• Over-Ear Headphones: I found that over-ear headphones provide a comfortable fit without the pressure that in-ear options can cause. They’re great for long listening sessions.
• On-Ear Headphones: Another option is on-ear headphones, which rest on the ears rather than inside. They can be a good compromise for comfort and sound quality.

Maintenance Matters

Sometimes, discomfort can arise from neglecting maintenance. Here’s how I keep my AirPods in top shape:

• Regular Cleaning: I regularly clean my AirPods to avoid buildup that can irritate my ears. Using a soft cloth and a gentle cleaner helps keep them fresh.
• Check for Damage: I always inspect my AirPods for any cracks or damage that could contribute to discomfort.

Conclusion: Finding What Works for Me

In my journey with AirPods, I’ve learned that comfort is highly individual. What works for me might not work for you, and that’s okay. By understanding the reasons behind the discomfort, experimenting with fit, adjusting my habits, and considering alternatives, I’ve been able to enjoy listening without pain. If you’re experiencing similar issues, I hope these tips help you on your quest for comfort!

Author Profile

Francis Bates

I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.

In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.

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