Putting AirFly Duo vs. Pro head-to-head helps you understand how different these two models by Twelve South are. While both are decent, helpful devices for travelers seeking seamless wireless audio connection, they still have their fair share of contrasts in terms of features. I’ve reviewed both devices and will compare them to help you understand which has the upper hand in terms of features, performance, sound quality, and value.
What is the Difference Between AirFly Pro and Duo? (Quick Answer)
The main difference between these two AirFly models is that the AirFly Pro can both send audio from a non-Bluetooth device to Bluetooth headphones and receive audio from a phone to play through audio speakers, while the AirFly Duo can only send audio to Bluetooth headphones. Additionally, the Pro’s battery life is a bit longer, with the Duo lasting 22 hours and the Pro lasting 25 hours. Here’s a full comparison table for you:
| Feature | AirFly Duo | AirFly Pro | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Box Items | AirFly Duo, USB-C to USB-A Charging Cable, Owner’s Guide | AirFly Pro, USB-C to USB-A Charging Cable, Travel Pouch, Keyring Storage, Owner’s Guide | AirFly Pro |
| Battery Life | 22 hours | 25 hours | AirFly Pro |
| Dual Connection Feature | Yes | Yes | Tie |
| Bluetooth Features | Transmit only (TX) | Transmit (TX) and Receive (RX) | AirFly Pro |
| Sound Quality | High-quality, no noticeable lag | High-quality, no noticeable lag | Tie |
| Where is it good for | In-flight entertainment, home use, gaming | In-flight entertainment, home use, gaming, automotive use (car stereo), marine systems | AirFly Pro |
| Price | $44.99 | $54.99 | AirFly Duo (more affordable) |
AirFly Duo vs. AirFly Pro: Features & Specifications
Generally, both models are Bluetooth adapters, meaning they are designed to transmit audio from a non-Bluetooth device, turning it into a source with wireless capability. You plug the device (AirFly) into the headphone jack of the source, put it in pairing mode, and finally pair your headphones with the device and enjoy your wireless experience! However, while both offer this same functionality, they have differences that we’ll go through in this section.
Battery Life & Portability
Both devices shine in terms of battery life. The AirFly Duo can last for 22 hours on a single charge, while the AirFly Pro extends the competition with its 25-hour battery life. I found both devices to be reliable companions for marathon flights where I didn’t want to worry about recharging. Both gadgets have a compact and lightweight design, making them super portable.
Dual Connection Capability
One of the coolest features I found on both AirFly Duo and Pro is the dual connection. You can connect two sets of wireless headphones at the same time. This makes it easy to share movies or music with your travel companion during the flight. You can listen to the same music with two separate headphones, eliminating the need to share a single headphone, which can be a real drag.
Additional Features
While both models are very capable of turning a non-Bluetooth source into a Bluetooth device thanks to their transmit feature (TX), the AirFly Pro has a slight edge due to its additional option. Unlike the Duo model, the AirFly Pro has a receive functionality (RX), meaning that it can not only transmit audio from non-Bluetooth devices but also receive it and send it to Bluetooth speakers or headphones.
For instance, using the AirFly Pro, you can simply connect the device to your car stereo through the AUX port and play your favorite music from your smartphone. This extra functionality makes the AirFly Pro a jack of all trades!
Both models can transmit audio, but only the AirFly Pro can also receive and convey audio to Bluetooth speakers or headphones
How Do You Set AirFly Pro to TX or RX Mode?
There’s a little slider on the side that you can simply switch between RX or TX mode.
Compatibility and Connectivity
The pairing process for both AirFly Duo and Pro is a breeze. Simply plug them into the source device through a standard 3.5mm audio jack and put them into pairing mode by pressing and holding the power button until they start flashing white. Finally, put your headphones into pairing mode. The AirFly device will then automatically connect with your headphones.
In terms of compatibility, both models are compatible with a wide range of Bluetooth headphones like AirPods (1st and 2nd generation), AirPods Pro (all generations), AirPods Max, and Bose. They both offer a 33-foot range for connectivity. However, the AirFly Pro has a slight edge here thanks to its additional RX mode, which helps it handle a wider variety of devices, making it useful for more than just wireless headphones.
AirFly Duo vs. Pro: Sound Quality
When comparing AirFly Pro vs Duo, there’s not much difference regarding to sound quality, they both hit out of the park. During my tests, I saw how both models are able to transmit audio to my Bluetooth headphones and earbuds without sacrificing quality. So, there’s not much to discuss regarding sound quality; both contenders are promising.
Price and Value for Money
The AirFly Duo model is currently $44.99, and the AirFly Pro is $54.99, according to the Twelve South website. There’s not a significant price gap between the two models, but the final decision depends on your needs. The Duo is a great option for people who want an affordable, reliable Bluetooth transmitter for travel and basic home use.
On the other hand, the AirFly Pro is a bit pricier, but its additional feature is a must for some people. I personally prefer the Pro model since it allows me to play my music through my car stereo while driving, and the difference in cost isn’t much, so why not go with the Pro model? But, I repeat, not everyone thinks the same as me, in my opinion, in the battle between AirFly Duo vs AirFly Pro, the Pro model wins in terms of value for money.
Conclusion
In conclusion, after comparing AirFly Duo vs. Pro side-by-side, I can say that the Pro is a better choice regarding functionality and value for money. It has better battery life and can act as a Bluetooth receiver. Of course, it’s a bit pricier, but it is worth the investment and is a better overall product.
FAQs
Which Is Better, AirFly Duo or AirFly Pro?
Given its additional signal receiving feature, the AirFly Pro boasts better value for money.
Does the AirFly Duo Work with AirPods Pro?
Yes, it does.
