AirFly Pro 2 vs. AirFly SE: Which Bluetooth Transmitter Is Right for Your Flights?

Quick Answer

For most travelers, the AirFly SE offers the best balance of price and performance, providing a reliable way to use AirPods on planes. However, if you frequently travel with multiple devices or need extended battery life, the AirFly Pro 2's enhanced features justify the higher cost. Choose based on your typical travel habits and device ecosystem.

If you’ve ever struggled with the tangled wires of airline headphones or wished you could use your AirPods with the seatback screen, you’ve likely considered a Bluetooth transmitter. Twelve South’s AirFly series has become a go-to for travelers, but with multiple models available, deciding between the AirFly Pro 2 and AirFly SE can be tricky.

We’ll break down the key differences, based on the official specs, to help you pick the right one for your flights. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional vacationer, this comparison will clarify which transmitter fits your needs.

Understanding the AirFly Lineup

Twelve South’s AirFly transmitters are designed to solve a simple problem: connecting your wireless headphones to audio sources that lack Bluetooth, such as in-flight entertainment systems, gym equipment, and older audio jacks. They pair with your AirPods or other Bluetooth headphones, then plug into the 3.5mm jack of the device you want to listen to, transmitting the audio wirelessly to your ears.

The AirFly SE is positioned as a budget-friendly option that delivers core functionality, while the AirFly Pro 2 adds premium features like multipoint connectivity and a longer battery life. Understanding these differences is crucial to making the right choice for your travel style.

• Check if your airline’s seatback screen still has a 3.5mm headphone jack – most do, but some newer planes may require an adapter.
• Ensure your earbuds are in pairing mode before connecting to the AirFly transmitter.

Key Differences at a Glance

While both devices serve the same primary function, their feature sets diverge significantly. The AirFly Pro 2 supports multipoint pairing, allowing you to connect two sets of headphones simultaneously – perfect for watching a movie with a companion. It also offers a longer battery life, making it suitable for long-haul flights. The AirFly SE, on the other hand, is more compact and affordable, focusing on simplicity and ease of use.

Battery life is a major factor for frequent flyers. The AirFly Pro 2 provides up to 20 hours of use, while the AirFly SE offers around 16 hours. Both are sufficient for most flights, but the Pro 2’s extra capacity can be a lifesaver on extended journeys or when you forget to charge between flights.

• Consider how often you’ll be away from a charging port – if you’re on back-to-back long flights, the AirFly Pro 2’s longer battery life is a clear advantage.

Tradeoffs to Consider

• Battery Life: AirFly Pro 2 offers longer battery life (up to 20 hours) compared to AirFly SE (up to 16 hours). If you take long-haul flights or forget to charge often, the Pro 2 provides more peace of mind. Choose Pro 2 for longer trips; SE is fine for shorter flights.
• Multipoint Connectivity: The AirFly Pro 2 allows you to connect two sets of headphones simultaneously, making it easy to share a movie with a travel companion. The AirFly SE does not have this feature. If you often travel with a partner, the Pro 2 is worth the extra cost.
• Price and Portability: The AirFly SE is more affordable and slightly more compact, making it a budget-friendly choice for solo travelers who just need basic functionality. The Pro 2 costs more but adds premium features. Solo travelers on a budget can save money with SE; those needing extra features should invest in Pro 2.

Product Facts

• AirFly: AirFly by Twelve South lets you enjoy your favorite audio wirelessly with devices that don't have Bluetooth built in. Designed for travel and everyday use, this compact accessory keeps your entertainment simple and convenient. This confirms that the AirFly series is purpose-built for travel, so you can trust it to work with in-flight entertainment systems and other audio jacks.
• AirFly: Connects wireless headphones or earbuds to in-flight entertainment systems, gym equipment, and other audio jacks. Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry in your pocket or bag. The compact design ensures it won’t add bulk to your carry-on, and its compatibility with various audio sources makes it a versatile travel companion.

Which AirFly Should You Choose?

Best for

• Frequent long-haul travelers who need maximum battery life and the ability to share audio with a companion – choose AirFly Pro 2.
• Travelers who want a compact, budget-friendly solution for occasional flights – choose AirFly SE.

Not for

• If you never use in-flight entertainment or don’t own wireless headphones, an AirFly transmitter isn’t necessary.
• If you need to connect more than two headphones at once, neither model supports that – consider a different solution.

Ultimately, the decision between the AirFly Pro 2 and AirFly SE comes down to your travel habits and budget. For most people, the AirFly SE offers excellent value and reliable performance. But if you’re a frequent flyer who values longer battery life and the ability to share audio, the AirFly Pro 2 is a worthy upgrade. Whichever you choose, you’ll never have to deal with those uncomfortable airline headphones again.