If you want a dedicated adapter that transforms any airplane seat into a Bluetooth hub while blocking engine hum, choose Avantree Relay; if you need versatile, sport-ready earbuds with advanced touch controls and all-day battery life for the commute, choose RAOPINGX Earbuds ANC ENC.
• Avantree Relay: Its superpower is universal compatibility with legacy AUX inputs on planes and gym equipment via its dual 3.5mm adapters, but it is strictly an audio transmitter/receiver combo rather than standalone earbuds. This pick is for travelers who already own great headphones or need to bridge old inflight systems.
• RAOPINGX Earbuds ANC ENC: It offers a complete in-ear solution with IPX5 water resistance and a modern circular design, though it lacks the specific airline jack adaptability of the Relay. This pick is for commuters, gym-goers, and runners who want a self-contained wireless experience.
The Avantree Relay occupies a very specific niche in the audio world that most standard earbuds simply cannot fill. It is not just a pair of earphones; it is a premium Bluetooth 5.3 adapter designed to solve the "no Bluetooth" problem found on older airplanes, hotel TVs, and gym cardio machines. If you have ever sat on a flight only to realize the seatback entertainment system uses those clunky dual-prong jacks, this device changes everything. The inclusion of dual 3.5mm adapters means it works with virtually any legacy connector type without needing dongles or complicated setups.
For the frequent flyer, this is arguably the best headset for flights because it acts as a bridge. You can connect your existing high-end headphones—whether they are over-ear models or other true wireless buds—to the plane's audio system wirelessly. Once connected, the Relay utilizes aptX-Adaptive codec support to transmit high-quality audio with low latency, ensuring that what you hear matches the video on the screen perfectly. The hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) blocks up to 24dB of environmental noise, which is significant when you are trying to sleep through the roar of jet engines.
However, this product is not for everyone. If you do not already own a pair of headphones or earbuds, buying the Relay alone leaves you with nothing to listen through. It is a component, not a final destination. Furthermore, while the case displays battery levels clearly, you must remember that the Relay itself is a transmitter. It is perfect for the traveler who values the ability to switch from their favorite personal audio gear to the inflight entertainment system seamlessly, but it offers no value to someone looking for a standalone pair of earbuds for running or casual listening around the house.
We compare products from their published specs and features; the verdicts below are our independent editorial opinions.
Updated: 2026-10-30 · 6 min read · Independent comparison
The RAOPINGX Earbuds ANC ENC are built for the person who wants a complete, standalone audio experience without carrying extra cables or adapters. These in-ear buds feature an all-new circular design that balances a minimalist aesthetic with a snug fit designed to conform to the ear canal. This physical design does more than look good; it helps block out external noise passively while the electronic hybrid noise cancellation system actively identifies and reduces ambient sound. Whether you are listening to powerful rock tracks or delicate classical melodies, the dynamic drivers deliver a frequency range from 20Hz to 20,000Hz, aiming to provide a live concert feel wherever you are.
What sets these apart for the active user is the multifunctional touchscreen interface. Instead of fumbling with tiny buttons or voice commands, you control volume, track changes, and calls with simple swipes and taps directly on the earbud surface. This level of responsiveness is particularly useful when you are moving fast or dealing with wind noise during outdoor runs. The Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity ensures a stable link up to 33 feet away, allowing you to leave your phone in your pocket while working out. Additionally, the IPX5 water resistance rating means you don't have to worry about sweat or light rain ruining your music session.
This product is ideal for the daily commuter or fitness enthusiast who needs durability and convenience. The 5-hour average battery life combined with a quick 1-hour charge time fits well into a busy schedule. However, the lack of a specialized airplane adapter means you will still need the traditional headphone jack plug-in method if you are on a flight that doesn't support Bluetooth streaming directly. If your primary use case is staying connected while walking, running, or commuting through a noisy city, these earbuds are a robust choice. But if your main goal is specifically to bypass old inflight entertainment systems, you will find yourself missing the specific hardware features of the Relay.
• Best for connecting to old airplanes → Avantree Relay. The dual 3.5mm adapters allow it to physically plug into any legacy inflight jack, a feature the RAOPINGX lacks entirely.
• Best for workouts and sweating → RAOPINGX Earbuds ANC ENC. The IPX5 water resistance rating makes them safe for heavy sweat and rain, whereas the Relay is an adapter, not a workout bud.
• Best for call clarity in noisy streets → RAOPINGX Earbuds ANC ENC. The Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) is specifically tuned for vocal transmission in bustling environments.
• Best for users with existing premium headphones → Avantree Relay. It turns your current high-quality cans into a wireless receiver for any AUX source.
• Best for seamless multi-device switching → RAOPINGX Earbuds ANC ENC. The touchscreen supports pairing with smartphones, tablets, and laptops simultaneously for easy switching.
• Best for modern wireless longevity → RAOPINGX Earbuds ANC ENC. It utilizes the latest Bluetooth 5.4 standard, offering slightly improved efficiency and range compared to the Relay's Bluetooth 5.3.
• Best for passive noise isolation during sports → RAOPINGX Earbuds ANC ENC. The in-ear bud shape creates a tight seal that naturally dampens wind and road noise better than a loose-fitting adapter setup.
• Best for visual feedback on power → Avantree Relay. The case features a dedicated display to monitor battery levels and charging status instantly.
After weighing the specifications and intended use cases, I would personally choose the RAOPINGX Earbuds ANC ENC for my daily life. While the Avantree Relay is a brilliant tool for specific travel scenarios, the RAOPINGX offers a more versatile, all-encompassing solution. I recommend the RAOPINGX for anyone who wants a single device that handles music, calls, and workouts without needing extra accessories. Its combination of Bluetooth 5.4, water resistance, and intuitive touch controls makes it the superior choice for general living, including long-haul travel where comfort and ease of use matter most. That said, if your primary pain point is an airplane seat with no Bluetooth, the Relay remains the undisputed champion for that specific task.
Both options offer Active Noise Cancellation to help block engine noise. The RAOPINGX in-ear design provides better passive isolation for lying down, while the Avantree Relay requires you to wear your own headphones, which might be less comfortable depending on your head size and pillow preference.
Yes, the RAOPINGX Earbuds feature an IPX5 water resistance rating, meaning they are protected against sweat and light rain, making them suitable for outdoor sports in various weather conditions.
The Avantree Relay includes dual 3.5mm adapters specifically designed to connect to any device that outputs audio via AUX, covering both standard and older dual-prong airplane connectors without needing additional converters.
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