Yes, you can use the Pixel Buds Pro 2 case with the Pixel Buds 2a – and vice versa

Damien Wilde | Oct 14 2025 - 6:00 am PT

One of the weird things about testing devices is learning things that aren’t ever mentioned in a press release or spec sheet. Namely, you can use the Pixel Buds Pro 2 case with the Pixel Buds 2a and also the smaller case with the previous generation.

Yes, you’re reading that correctly, the Pixel Buds 2a fit perfectly and charge inside the Pixel Buds Pro 2 case, and the Pixel Buds Pro 2 earbuds can also squeeze into the smaller Pixel Buds 2a case. Having played around with both pairs of buds, I decided to experiment, given that the new A-series earbud design is, after all, based on the Pro 2 shape, size, and style. As it turns out, my earbuds charged with no issues, and my Pixel 10 even recognized the switched case as the original.

You may remember that the 2020 Pixel Buds and the previous A-series buds did not have compatible cases due to minor chassis changes. Don’t just take our word for it, though. You can see just how it works in the video below:

This unexpected case compatibility opens up some efficient advantages for users of both Pixel Buds Pro 2 and Pixel Buds 2a models. At least in theory, if you damage or lose the case for either pair of earbuds, you can get a cheap—or potentially expensive—replacement to keep using your Bluetooth earbuds. Some might want the smaller case for convenience, and some might want the bigger premium case for extended battery life.

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However, you might lose out on the ability to use some features, like the case speaker on the Pixel Buds Pro 2, if paired with the new 2a model.

It’s worth reiterating that Google’s support pages do not mention or suggest that you should do this. Given that the company is insistent on improving sustainability pledges, cross-compatible cases for the Pixel Buds series would be a huge selling point.