Networking · The Digital Hub · 2004
AirPort Express
AirPort Express was a little wall-plug router that could also send iTunes audio to speakers, quietly inventing a lot of AirPlay habits.
Tiny travel router with AirTunes audio streaming.
AirPort Time Capsule (2008)
AirPort Express: key facts
When was the AirPort Express released?
The AirPort Express arrived in June 2004. Apple discontinued it in April 2018.
How much did the AirPort Express cost?
The AirPort Express launched at $129 in 2004, about $219 in today’s money (approximate, US CPI).
What specs stand out?
Key specs: Ethernet, USB, audio out.
Why does the AirPort Express matter?
Tiny travel router with AirTunes audio streaming.
Full specifications
| CPU | — |
|---|---|
| Cores | — |
| Memory (RAM) | — |
| Storage | — |
| Display | — |
| GPU | — |
| Ports | Ethernet, USB, audio out |
| Weight | Varies by model |
| Dimensions | Compact Wi-Fi base station |
| Operating system | Driver/firmware support |
| Released | June 2004 |
| Discontinued | April 2018 |
| Launch price | $129 |
How the AirPort Express compares to today
Launched at $129 in 2004, about $219 in today’s money (approx., US CPI).
Method note: clock comparisons use frequency only; price conversions use US CPI.
Sources
Specs checked against Apple technical specifications archive, EveryMac, Mactracker, Wikimedia Commons image credits.
Related Networking models
Open the AirPort Express in the interactive archive →
Last updated: 2026-08-11