PowerBug vs ButterFly SE: Which Travel Charger Wins?
By Twelve South - Luxury tech accessories designed for your ... | Published: 2026-10-13
Category: Comparisons
Compare the PowerBug and ButterFly SE 25W on portability, charging speed, and hands-free use to pick the right Twelve South travel charger.
Quick answer
Choose the ButterFly SE 25W if you want one compact plug that charges an iPhone and an Apple Watch or AirPods at the same time, and can double as a hands-free stand. Choose the PowerBug if you mainly charge a single phone at home or on a desk and want a minimal stand that keeps the screen visible. The PowerBug is not a folding travel charger.
What each charger actually does
The ButterFly SE 25W is a 2-in-1 Qi2.2 charger that powers an iPhone and an Apple Watch or AirPods from one outlet, folds for travel, and works as a hands-free viewing stand. The PowerBug is a single-phone wireless charger with a built-in USB-C port for a second device, designed to keep a MagSafe or Qi2-compatible phone visible in StandBy mode, FaceTime, or streaming.
Portability and travel reality
For a carry-on or weekender, the ButterFly SE 25W is the more practical pick because it folds and replaces two charging bricks and cables. The PowerBug stays put on a nightstand, kitchen counter, or vanity; it is a stand, not a folding travel charger, so packing it means packing a separate charging setup for your watch.
Speed and device count
The ButterFly SE 25W tops out at 25W on its Qi2.2 charging surface, while the PowerBug's wireless charging rate is not listed in the supplied specifications. If you need the fastest possible top-up for a single phone, the ButterFly SE 25W gives you a stated 25W figure to compare; if you only need overnight charging for one phone, either works.
Hands-free viewing
Both double as stands, but for different moments. The ButterFly SE 25W props up an iPhone or Apple Watch while charging, which is handy on a hotel desk. The PowerBug is built for keeping your phone visible and in use at home, so it suits StandBy mode, FaceTime, or streaming on a counter or nightstand.
Trade-offs to weigh
- Travel footprint: ButterFly SE 25W folds and charges two devices from one outlet, so it replaces more gear in a bag. PowerBug does not fold and is not positioned as a travel charger. If packing light is the priority, start with the ButterFly SE 25W.
- Stated charging speed: ButterFly SE 25W lists Qi2.2 wireless charging at up to 25W. PowerBug's wireless charging wattage is not specified in the supplied catalog facts. When a specific wattage matters to you, the ButterFly SE 25W gives you a number to compare.
- Second device support: ButterFly SE 25W charges an iPhone plus an Apple Watch or AirPods at once. PowerBug charges one phone wirelessly and can power a second device through its USB-C port. For watch charging without extra cables, the ButterFly SE 25W is the simpler match.
Product facts
- ButterFly SE 25W: ButterFly SE 25W is an ultra compact, 2-in-1 Qi2.2 charger that charges your iPhone and Apple Watch or AirPods at the same time from just one outlet, and doubles as a hands-free viewing stand. One outlet and one accessory replace separate phone and watch chargers, which simplifies packing for trips.
- PowerBug: PowerBug wirelessly charges your iPhone while keeping it visible and in use, with a built-in USB-C port to power a second device. It is a desk or nightstand stand first, so it suits hands-free use at home rather than folding into a travel pouch.
Which should you choose?
Best for
- Travelers who want one folding charger for an iPhone and an Apple Watch or AirPods
- Anyone who wants a compact wireless charger that doubles as a hands-free stand on a hotel desk
- Buyers who want a stated 25W Qi2.2 charging figure
Not for
- People who only charge one phone at home and prefer a fixed stand
- Anyone who needs a charger that stays permanently on a nightstand or kitchen counter
