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Air Video HD Review & Alternative Option

Kirk McElhearn
Kirk McElhearn
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Watching movies across your Apple devices shouldn't be complicated. While Air Video HD lets you stream from Mac to iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV with minimal setup, it's not always the most practical choice—especially if you want offline access or simpler file transfers.

Air Video HD serves its purpose as a streaming video player solution, but comes with significant limitations that might not suit everyone's needs. If you prefer watching content without depending on your computer or maintaining constant Wi-Fi connections, direct file transfer often works better.

Why Air Video HD Falls Short for Many Users

Apple device owners frequently want to share media files across their ecosystem. You might store movies on your Mac but prefer watching them on your iPad during commutes or travel.

Apple offers iCloud and iTunes sync as built-in options, but both have drawbacks. iCloud provides limited storage and lacks convenience, while iTunes feels slow and struggles with format compatibility.

Air Video HD addresses some issues by allowing streaming without iTunes involvement, and it doesn't consume device storage. However, three major limitations make this alternative to air video hd impractical for portable viewing.

Your Computer Must Stay Powered On

Air Video HD requires your Mac to remain on and actively running the server application while streaming—an issue if you're traveling or want offline access.

Air Video HD requires your Mac to stay powered on and actively running the server application while streaming. This means leaving your computer on even when you're not using it directly.

Most people choose iPads for portable entertainment during subway rides, flights, or trips. This requirement defeats the purpose since you can't stream when away from home.

Air Video Alternative Interface

Internet Connection Required

Both devices need a strong Wi-Fi connection for streaming to work. This eliminates offline viewing, which is often the main reason people want content on mobile devices.

WALTR PRO sidesteps this entirely by transferring files directly to your device, allowing you to download movies on iPad and download MP3 to iPhone for playback without needing the internet.

Complex Setup Process

Air Video HD requires downloading both the main app and Air Video Server HD, then configuring preferences and understanding how the system operates.

If you decide to use Air Video HD, close the server application when not streaming to prevent unnecessary background processes from consuming system resources.

Air Video Alternative Interface Settings

A Better Alternative: WALTR PRO

These limitations make Air Video HD less practical for on-the-go use. If you're looking for a simpler, offline solution, WALTR PRO offers a compelling alternative.

Waltr Pro General Image 1

Feature

Air Video HD

WALTR PRO

Offline Access

No

Yes

Needs Mac On?

Yes

No

Format Compatibility

Limited

Broad (MKV, FLAC)

Wi-Fi Required

Yes

Optional

Uses Native Apps

No

Yes

WALTR PRO takes a different approach by transferring music and movies in any format directly to Apple devices. The application uses a simple interface and sends audio and video files straight to your stock Apple apps—movies land in the TV app, while music goes to Apple Music.

This integration means you use Apple's native video player and audio apps, which provide better performance and battery life than third-party alternatives.

Check how WALTR PRO works!

Key WALTR PRO Advantages

  • Fast Upload Speeds: Transfer files quickly without waiting.

  • Offline Access: Watch content anywhere, regardless of whether your computer is on.

  • Format Support: Handle formats like MKV, AVI, APE, and FLAC automatically.

  • Multiple File Types: Support for audio, ringtones, PDFs, and ePub files.

  • Files consume device storage, but you gain complete freedom to watch content anywhere without connectivity requirements.

  • Wireless Transfer: Move files using Wi-Fi—no cables required.

Using Wi-Fi transfer eliminates the need to keep multiple cable types on hand and reduces wear on your device's charging port.

How to Use WALTR PRO

Step 1: Download and Open WALTR PRO

The interface consists of a simple drop-zone. Connect your iPhone, and WALTR PRO recognizes it immediately. You'll need to activate a free 24-hour trial using a code sent to your email.

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WALTR PRO

Convert & Push Any File into Any Apple Device

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Step 2: Add Your Files

Drag audio and video files into the drop-zone. WALTR PRO syncs content within seconds, converting to compatible formats when needed.

Waltr Pro 2

(Optional) Step 3. Customize Your Download

Once you've selected your media, you have the option to personalize it before downloading. Here's how: hold the Ctrl (Windows) or ⌥ (Mac) key to modify metadata, such as title, year, or genre, hold the Alt (Windows) or ⌘ (Mac) to choose a different application or destination for your download.

Waltr Pro 3 2

Use WALTR PRO's AI feature to automatically fetch and fill in the metadata, saving time and ensuring accuracy.

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Step 3: Enjoy Your Content

Your movies appear in the native app, ready for playback anytime. The conversion happens quickly, and you can AirPlay content to Apple TV for big-screen viewing.

Additional WALTR PRO Features

Beyond basic file transfer, WALTR PRO handles various media tasks:

The Verdict

Air Video HD works for streaming when you're at home with both devices connected to Wi-Fi. However, if you value offline access, broad file support, and native integration with Apple apps, WALTR PRO is likely the better choice for most users.

WALTR PRO eliminates the need to keep your Mac running, works without internet connections, and supports virtually any media format—making it a comprehensive file management solution for Apple devices.

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FAQ

What is Air Video HD used for?

Air Video HD lets you stream movies from your Mac to Apple devices like iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV. It allows you to watch your media on different devices without transferring files.

Can I use Air Video HD without an internet connection?

No, Air Video HD requires both your Mac and Apple device to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network for streaming. It won’t work without an internet connection.

What is a good alternative to Air Video HD?

WALTR PRO is a great alternative to Air Video HD. Instead of streaming, WALTR PRO transfers videos directly to your iPhone or iPad, allowing you to watch them offline using the native Videos/TV app.

How do I transfer videos to my iPhone without iTunes?

You can use WALTR PRO to transfer videos to your iPhone without iTunes. Simply drag your movie files into the app, and it will quickly sync them to your device for offline playback.

Does WALTR PRO support MKV and AVI formats?

Yes, WALTR PRO supports a wide range of formats, including MKV, AVI, APE, and FLAC. It automatically converts these formats so they can be played on your Apple devices.

Kirk McElhearn
Kirk McElhearn
Contributing Writer at Softorino
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WALTR PRO

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Drag. Drop. Play. Effortlessly convert & transfer almost any music, video, book, photo, document or file and have it on your iPhone or iPad.

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