We're often asked about how our products compare to wireless screen sharing devices offered by other brands, and the Airtame 2 is no exception. In an earlier comparison, we covered the similarities and differences with the KLIK Boks PLUS. This time, let's see how Airtame 2 compares to the KLIKStik.
The Basics
Airtame 2 is the improved version of the original Airtame wireless screen sharing device that was recently discontinued. Whereas the original Airtame was housed in a small HDMI “dongle”, the new model uses a round housing with an external HDMI cable for connection to the display. Likewise, where the older Airtame was supplied with a USB cable and could draw its power from the display, this new model requires an external power supply, drawing considerably more power. The new Airtame 2 is also $200 more expensive than the old model, now offered at $499. Airtame 2 comes with a 1-year warranty (US).
KLIKStik is the smallest and most affordable wireless screen sharing system from KLIK, and comes in at just $149. The Stik shares a similar form factor to the original Airtame, with an HDMI connector on one end, that plugs directly into a screen or projector. The Stik is also supplied with a short HDMI extension cable, to make it easier to install when the screen's connector is in an awkward location. It also comes with a combination USB cable, that connects to the screen's USB port, powering the device. In the case of Airtame 2, the device cannot be powered by USB and must be connected to the supplied power adapter.
The combination USB cable not only powers the KLIK Stik, it also enables two signature features of the device; Media Player and Wireless USB. KLIK Stik can play back Audio, Video and Images, through its built-in Media Player. Simply plug in a thumb drive and use your phone as the remote control. In addition, the USB port can be used to connect a wireless presenter, so it can be shared by any PC that's making a presentation. The KLIK Stik comes with a 3-year warranty.
Integration
Prior to use, both Airtame 2 and KLIKStik must be connected to the display, a power source and to the local area network.
Since neither device has an Ethernet connector, the network connection must be made using Wi-Fi. For a total cost of $528 the Airtame may be paired with an optional Ethernet adapter, while in the case of KLIK Stik, one would have to move up to the KLIKBoks PLUS, at $249 to get that feature (see our comparison here).
Once connected to the display screen, both devices need to be paired to the local Wi-Fi, and further set up with optional features and settings. Both products come with a curated setup process, by downloading an application from their respective websites.
Native Streaming
One of the most attractive features of any wireless screen sharing device is the ability for users to stream from their devices, without being forced to install an app. Native streaming is built into devices powered by Windows, Mac OSX, iOS and Android, under a variety of different names.
Airtame 2 supports screen mirroring from iOS devices using AirPlay Beta, which needs to be enabled manually before first use. According to the company, “AirPlay works both when streaming from OSX and iOS devices, but development efforts are focused on iOS devices.” Since the feature is still in beta, the company lists over a dozen known issues with AirPlay. Aside from AirPlay Beta for iOS, Airtame 2 does not support any other native streaming protocol.
KLIK Stik supports screen mirroring from Mac OSX, iOS, Windows and Android devices, natively. KLIK’s implementation of AirPlay compatibility works with iOS devices, allowing for full screen mirroring with any content, including YouTube video when played from a web page. AirPlay on Mac allows for screen mirroring or extended desktop mode, supporting presenter mode in PowerPoint and Keynote. Windows (8.1+) users can stream to KLIK using the native Miracast utility that’s built in, with the ability to mirror or extend the desktop. KLIK also supports Android devices with full screen mirroring, since they also use the Miracast protocol.
Access Control
A wireless screen sharing solution is a welcome addition to any collaboration space, but there are applications where access restrictions need to be placed on the device. For example, where adjacent meeting rooms could lead users to accidentally connect to the wrong room, or schools where a higher degree of access control is needed.
Airtame 2 can be set up to require a “PIN code” that users must enter before starting a streaming session. The PIN code is randomly generated and ensures that only users who are physically in the same room can connect and stream to the Airtame 2. The feature needs to be enabled through the Advanced settings option.
KLIK Stik comes with password-restricted access enabled by default. Like Airtame, users must enter the 4-digit password to connect with KLIK and start a streaming session. The feature can be disabled easily from the KLIK app or the KLIKWizard.
In addition, KLIK Stik offers moderated control that allows one person to assume the role of moderator, with exclusive control over the start of any streaming session. The function can be controlled by use of the KLIK app, which also allows the moderator to preview the users’ screen before starting a streaming session.
Additional Features
Airtame 2 offers wireless screen sharing as its core competency, then adds a central management console to allow system administrators to configure and maintain the devices remotely. The management console is web-based and requires that the Airtame device be connected to the Internet. In addition, Airtame 2 offers a basic digital signage interface with various apps that are free to use during the beta period.
KLIK Stik offers wireless screen sharing, and comes with a remote configuration and management application that runs on a local computer. The KLIKWizard app does not require the KLIK Stik to be connected to the Internet, which can be a security concern for many organizations (Education, HIPPA, etc.).
KLIK does not offer digital signage, but it does include a media player capable of playing back video, music and images from a USB drive or from the network. The software remote control provides direct access to the media player as well as many other system features and settings.
KLIK also offers a remote viewing capability not supported by Airtame 2. The KLIKStream feature allows users to view a presentation in real time, right on their own device. KLIKStream is browser-based, so no additional software is required, and allows users to make screen captures of the content for later review.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to add wireless screen sharing to your collaboration space(s), both Airtame 2 and KLIK Stik are capable solutions. While both devices allow password-restricted access, if you have a large number of presenters that you need to cycle through (as in a classroom or committee meeting), then KLIKStik, with its moderator mode, may be a better choice.
Since both devices come without an Ethernet connection for wired network connectivity, you'll need to ensure that you have adequate Wi-Fi coverage, and little interference from other networks. On the other hand, if you expect that a wired network option is best for stability and performance, you could choose to pay an additional $20 for the Airtame network adapter, or upgrade to the KLIKBoks PLUS at $249.
All feature comparisons are based on published specifications obtained from the Airtame website, on the date of publication of this article. We welcome clarifications and corrections and the legal beagles want us to tell you that Errors & Omissions are Excepted, all trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners, and that this content is Copyright 2019, KLIK Communications Inc, all rights reserved.