Many companies in different parts of the world invest time and money into creating cloned Apple devices for cheaper prices. This explains why fake gadgets are everywhere and people keep falling victim to these counterfeits.
Fake AirPods Pro are carefully designed that it is nearly impossible to differentiate them from the real ones. So, you can buy a fake AirPods Pro Max or any other gadget, thinking it’s the original product.
Thankfully, you can confirm the authenticity of your AirPods Pro right from the box. In this article, we will be discussing the differences between an original and a fake AirPods Pro. With these tips, you can easily identify if it’s fake just by looking at the box.
- Inspect the Font and Printing Quality
Fake AirPods are built to replicate the features of the original version. For instance, a fake AirPods Pro Max might offer active noise cancellation, spatial audio with dynamic head tracking, long battery life, and much more.
So, the first way to spot the difference between an original or fake AirPods Pro Max is to compare the boxes. The quality of printing looks more natural on the original AirPods than on the fake ones. The name and logo appear thinner and darker on the fake product. Other things you can see on a fake AirPods Pro box are:
- Spelling errors
- Odd spacing
- Wrong font style or size
- Blurred or fuzzy printing

- Examine the Entire Box Packaging
It is advisable to thoroughly examine the AirPods Pro box to confirm its originality. Check the seal, instructions, and pull tabs. The AirPods image and Apple logo on the box are slightly raised and feel premium. Many fake products skip this or get the texture wrong.
Confirm if the seal is poorly applied and if the instructions aren’t neatly printed out. In the original AirPods, you should be able to read the instructions smoothly and use Apple’s signature pull tabs to open the device. Once the device doesn’t meet any of these criteria, you might be holding a fake AirPods. Remember, Apple is all about perfection and even the box shows it.

- Verify the Serial Number
Every Apple product has a unique serial number that you can use to confirm its authenticity. Simply flip the box to find the serial number or check your phone to find it — you can go through your Bluetooth settings.
Visit the Apple Check coverage website to confirm the serial number. When you enter the number, the site provides information about the AirPods Pro Max, including its registration and warranty. However, if the site doesn’t reveal more info about the device, it could be a fake.

- Inspect the AirPods’ Build
Despite the AirPods’ similar appearance to that of the real product, you can still tell if it’s fake by holding it carefully. Fake AirPods Pro Max cases tend to feel lighter and less sturdy. The original box feels sturdy and slightly heavier due to high-quality cardboard.
You can also tell by looking at the Airpods. Original AirPods are built to withstand pressure, slight falls, and more. You need to examine the quality; if it feels like cheap plastic, it is definitely a fake. Also, confirm if its charging point is installed correctly and functions well.

- The AirPods’ Color Must Be Consistent
Every Apple AirPods is white; it doesn’t matter if it’s the first generation or fourth generation. Once the AirPods you purchased are any other color aside from white, just know it is a fake product.
Simply open the case to confirm the color before purchasing them. You can then use the opportunity to check for Missing Accessories or Incorrect Icons. A fake box might leave out certain elements or include extras that don’t belong.

- Check for LED Lights and Mic Performance
Original AirPods Pro Max do not have blinking LED lights on the earbuds. The AirPods case displays two lights; you should see a red light that indicates when it is low or charging, and a green light that indicates when it is charged. Most fake AirPods Pro Max have lights on the earbuds.
Additionally, Apple built AirPods to ensure convenience and flexibility. You should be able to speak to anyone on a call without holding your phone. A fake AirPods Pro would most likely have a weak microphone and poor sound quality.

Conclusion
Buying Apple products should always be a safe and satisfying experience. If you’re purchasing AirPods Pro from a third-party seller or marketplace, take the time to inspect the box before making payment.
Thankfully, we have enlightened you on how to spot fake and original AirPods Pro. All you have to do is confirm a few things on the box, including the printing quality, seal, and serial number. You can also inspect the case and earbuds by looking out for the weight, unnecessary lights, poor sound quality, missing features, etc. Suppose you want to go even further. Don’t hesitate to verify the authenticity of the AirPods Pro with Apple.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a Fake AirPods Case Work with Original Airpods?
Original AirPods might fit in a fake AirPods case. However, it doesn’t mean they will work properly. Apple’s AirPods cases are specifically designed to work with AirPods, and fake AirPods won’t charge when inserted in the original AirPods case.
Do Fake AirPods Pro Work with iPhone?
Fake Airpods Pro might connect with your iPhone if you are lucky, but not as well as original ones. Fake AirPods Pro won’t have all the features that the genuine ones offer.
Will a Fake AirPods Pro Max Have Noise Cancellation?
Some fake AirPods Pro Max are equipped with the active noise cancellation feature. It’s just that it won’t be as strong as the original. As such, the noise cancellation feature isn’t enough proof to determine whether the device is original or fake.