Twelve South AirFly SE Review: The Ultimate Bluetooth Audio Adapter for Travel
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Quick verdict on the Twelve South AirFly SE Review: The Ultimate Bluetooth Audio Adapter for Travel
Quick summary
Introduction If you’re someone who loves traveling or simply enjoys wireless audio freedom, the Twelve South AirFly SE might just be the gadget you never knew you needed. This Bluetooth wireless audio transmitter adapter is designed to transform any 3.5mm aux jack into a wireless audio source, perfect for use on airplanes, TVs, gym equipment, and more. It’s especially handy for AirPods and other Bluetooth headphones, offering a sleek way…
👍 What we liked
- Over 20 hours of battery life for extended use
- Easy pairing with AirPods and most Bluetooth headphones
- Compact, lightweight, and travel-friendly design
- Works with a wide variety of devices featuring 3.5mm aux jacks
⚠️ Where it falls short
- Price is higher than basic Bluetooth transmitters
- No support for aptX Low Latency codec (may impact audio sync for some users)
- Limited to audio transmission only (no microphone support)
Introduction
If you’re someone who loves traveling or simply enjoys wireless audio freedom, the Twelve South AirFly SE might just be the gadget you never knew you needed. This Bluetooth wireless audio transmitter adapter is designed to transform any 3.5mm aux jack into a wireless audio source, perfect for use on airplanes, TVs, gym equipment, and more. It’s especially handy for AirPods and other Bluetooth headphones, offering a sleek way to cut the cord without sacrificing audio quality or battery life.
Key Features & Specs
- Bluetooth Wireless Transmitter: Connects your AirPods or other Bluetooth headphones to any device with a 3.5mm aux jack.
- Long Battery Life: Offers over 20 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, making it perfect for long flights or extended use.
- Universal Compatibility: Works seamlessly with airplanes, gym machines, TVs, and other devices that have a headphone jack.
- Compact & Portable: Small and lightweight, easy to carry in your travel bag or pocket.
- Simple Setup: Easy pairing with Bluetooth headphones and quick connection to your audio source.
Design & Build
The Twelve South AirFly SE sports a clean, minimalistic design that fits well with modern tech aesthetics. Its compact size means it won’t weigh down your gear or take up too much space. The build quality feels solid and durable, with a matte finish that resists fingerprints and scratches. The controls are straightforward—just a few buttons for power, pairing, and volume control—making it user-friendly even for those new to Bluetooth audio devices.
Performance & Real-World Use
When it comes to performance, the Twelve South AirFly SE delivers consistent, low-latency audio streaming that pairs quickly with AirPods and other Bluetooth headphones. In airplane mode or on gym equipment, it maintains a strong connection without dropouts, which can often plague similar transmitters. The sound quality is clear and full, with no noticeable lag or distortion during video playback or music listening.
Battery life is impressive, lasting more than 20 hours, which means you can easily get through long-haul flights or multiple workout sessions without recharging. Charging is straightforward via USB-C, and the compact charger cable is easy to pack along.
Pricing & Value
The Twelve South AirFly SE is positioned in the mid-to-high price range for Bluetooth transmitters but justifies its cost with premium build quality, exceptional battery life, and reliable performance. If you frequently travel and want a hassle-free way to connect your wireless headphones to in-flight entertainment systems or other legacy audio devices, this adapter is a worthy investment.
Casual users who only need occasional wireless connection may find cheaper alternatives, but for those who prioritize simplicity, durability, and long battery life, the AirFly SE stands out as a best-in-class option.
Pros
- Over 20 hours of battery life for extended use
- Easy pairing with AirPods and most Bluetooth headphones
- Compact, lightweight, and travel-friendly design
- Works with a wide variety of devices featuring 3.5mm aux jacks
- Strong and stable Bluetooth connection with minimal latency
- Simple controls and quick setup
Cons
- Price is higher than basic Bluetooth transmitters
- No support for aptX Low Latency codec (may impact audio sync for some users)
- Limited to audio transmission only (no microphone support)
Final Verdict
The Twelve South AirFly SE is an excellent choice for travelers and audio enthusiasts who want to enjoy wireless headphone freedom without replacing older audio equipment. Its impressive battery life, reliable connection, and compact design make it a standout Bluetooth transmitter adapter. However, if you’re on a tight budget or need advanced audio codec support, you might want to explore other options.
Overall, I recommend the AirFly SE to frequent flyers, gym-goers, and anyone who regularly uses devices with a 3.5mm jack but prefers wireless listening. Skip it if you rarely use wired audio sources or if you need microphone functionality or ultra-low latency codecs.
FAQ
What devices are compatible with the Twelve South AirFly SE?
The AirFly SE works with any device that has a 3.5mm aux jack, including airplanes, TVs, and gym equipment.
How long does the battery last?
It has a battery life of over 20 hours, allowing for extended use without frequent recharging.
Can I use it with my AirPods?
Yes, the AirFly SE is designed to connect seamlessly with AirPods and other Bluetooth headphones.
Is it easy to set up?
Yes, the setup process is straightforward, making it user-friendly for anyone.
Does it support noise-cancelling headphones?
Yes, it is compatible with noise-cancelling headphones, enhancing your listening experience.
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