What are the differences between the Profoto remotes? Connect Pro VS Connect VS Air Remote

A transmitter is an essential tool that allows you to trigger your flash remotely. Often referred to as “flash triggers“, these devices play a central role in your lighting setup. With your transmitter, you can not only wirelessly trigger your flashes but also control all their settings remotely, providing maximum flexibility in your shooting.

Profoto offers three different transmitters in its lineup: the Profoto Air Remote, the Profoto Connect and the Profoto Connect Pro. Each of these models provides specific features, allowing photographers to choose the one that best suits their shooting style and control needs.

In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these three Profoto remotes to help you make the best choice based on your requirements and working style. Discover the unique features of each model and find the one that will optimize your photoshoots, whether in the studio or on location.

Quick guide to transmitter-related terms

Before comparing the Air Remote, the Connect, and the Connect Pro, here’s a brief Q&A to clarify any remaining questions you may have about the terms related to the remotes.

Discover the Profoto remotes

All Profoto remotes connect seamlessly to your camera and Profoto flashes, ensuring a smooth and reliable workflow.

Whether you choose the Profoto Air Remote, the Profoto Connect or the Profoto Connect Pro, each offers an impressive operating range of up to 100 meters.

These remotes allow you to adjust flash power in precise increments, as fine as a tenth of an f-stop, or in full f-stop steps for any selected group of flashes, giving you full control over your lighting.

What are the differences between the Profoto remotes?

The differences between Profoto transmitters mainly come down to the presence or absence of TTL and HSS modes. Some models are compatible with the Profoto Control App, while others are not.

There are also differences in the number of groups and channels available, as well as battery life.

Design is another factor, some transmitters include a display screen, while others do not.

Below, you’ll find a description of each transmitter, Air Remote, Connect, and Connect Pro, as well as a comparison table highlighting their key technical differences.

Profoto Air Remote

The Profoto Air Remote is one of the older models in the Profoto lineup, but it remains a favorite among many photographers.

This universal remote is compatible with most cameras that have a sync system. You can simply mount it on your camera’s hot shoe or connect it via the sync port for older systems using a PC sync cable.

Like all Profoto remotes, the Air Remote allows you to select different channels and groups. It can also be set to receive mode, enabling you to trigger your camera remotely using another Air Remote.

Profoto Connect

The Profoto Connect is a small, simple, and powerful button-free trigger compatible with all Profoto AirTTL lights.

It features just two intuitive modes: Auto mode, which provides a full TTL experience by automatically adjusting flash power based on your camera settings, and Manual mode, which gives you full control over power levels.

A useful feature is that when switching from Auto to Manual, the Connect retains the last TTL power setting, making it easy to fine-tune your lighting.

The Connect can be fully controlled via the Profoto Control App, allowing you to manage channels and groups, adjust power output, and even update firmware directly from your device.

Profoto Connect Pro

If you’re looking for the power and modern features of the Profoto Connect combined with the advanced control of the Air Remote, then the Profoto Connect Pro is the ultimate solution.

In both TTL and Manual modes, you can control your flash power directly from the top of your camera. With the introduction of absolute power, you can now view the exact power settings of your AirX-enabled flashes right from the remote.

The automatic version also supports TTL and High-Speed Sync (HSS) with compatible cameras, allowing you to exceed traditional shutter speed limits.

Like the Profoto Connect, the Profoto Connect Pro can be fully controlled via the Profoto Control App, letting you manage groups, channels, power output, and firmware updates wirelessly.

It supports 100 channels, each with 6 groups, enabling seamless integration across the Profoto system while displaying all settings as absolute values on its clear, easy-to-read screen.

The Profoto Connect Pro is also available in a Non-TTL version, making it compatible with virtually all camera models. While this version does not support TTL or HSS, it still offers full manual control of flash power, channels, and groups, ideal for photographers who prefer a consistent, fully manual workflow.

Technical comparison of the Profoto remotes

Profoto Connect Pro VS Connect VS Air Remote: Which one should you choose?

Choosing the right Profoto transmitter depends entirely on your shooting style, the level of control you need, and your camera system.

If you’re after maximum control, advanced features, and full system integration, the Profoto Connect Pro is the most complete option. It’s ideal for professionals who want precise control, absolute power display, and seamless app connectivity, whether in TTL or full manual mode.

If you prefer something minimalistic and easy to use, the Profoto Connect is perfect. It’s compact, intuitive, and great for photographers who want quick TTL support and mobile control without buttons or complexity.

For those who value simplicity and reliability, especially in manual setups, the Air Remote remains a solid and trusted choice, especially if you don’t need TTL or app support but still want to control groups and channels.

Each transmitter has its own strengths. By understanding your workflow and control preferences, you’ll be able to pick the model that best enhances your creative process and helps you get the most out of your Profoto lights.