Flite Jet 1 vs. Flite Jet 2: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

Flite Jet 1 vs. Flite Jet 2: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
Fliteboard’s propulsion technology has come a long way, but how much of a difference does the latest upgrade really make? If you’re asking, “What’s the difference between Flite Jet 1 and Flite Jet 2?” or “Is Flite Jet 2 actually better, or just different?”, we’re here to take an objective look at how these systems compare in real-world conditions.

For riders in Florida’s Panhandle—Destin, Pensacola, Panama City Beach, and Fort Walton Beach—where conditions range from glassy bays to open Gulf swells, these upgrades can make a noticeable impact on performance, efficiency, and overall ride feel.

This isn’t about flashy marketing claims—we’re digging into how these propulsion systems perform where it matters most:

• “Is Flite Jet 2 actually faster, or just smoother?”
• “How does the new design affect efficiency and battery life?”
• “Does Flite Jet 2 improve carving and responsiveness in waves?”
• “Which option makes more sense for beginners, casual riders, or pros?”
• “Why do some riders still choose the propeller system over the jet?”

We’ll break down speed, power, ride feel, and efficiency with a level-headed perspective—because, at the end of the day, what matters isn’t just what’s new but how it actually rides in real conditions. Whether you’re looking for the most effortless cruising experience, maximum carving control, or just the best setup for your style, we’ll help you decide whether the upgrade is worth it for you.

Let’s dive in.

Flite Jet 1 vs. Flite Jet 2: What’s Actually Different?

“Is Flite Jet 2 just a refined version of Flite Jet 1, or does it actually change the way you ride?”

If you’ve been riding with Flite Jet 1, you already know what makes it different from a propeller system—it’s safe, enclosed, and delivers smooth acceleration without any exposed blades. But while Flite Jet 1 got the job done, it wasn’t perfect.

Fliteboard took everything riders liked (and didn’t like) about the original jet and rebuilt it with better hydrodynamics, improved power delivery, and less noise. But what does that actually mean when you’re out on the water? Let’s get analytical.

🔊 Noise Reduction: Does It Actually Make a Difference?

“Is Flite Jet 2 really quieter, or is that just marketing?”

Fliteboard claims Flite Jet 2 is 40% quieter than its predecessor, but let’s break that down:

• Flite Jet 1 had a noticeable hum, especially at higher speeds. It wasn’t bad, but it was always there.
• Flite Jet 2 significantly reduces noise, making the loudest thing you’ll hear your own thoughts.

Why does that matter? Because a quieter ride feels smoother, more refined, and more like true flight.

🏆 Verdict: Yes, Flite Jet 2 is noticeably quieter, and it makes the ride feel more premium.

⚡ Power & Throttle Response: Does Flite Jet 2 Feel Faster?

“Is Flite Jet 2 actually faster, or does it just feel smoother?”

Top speed hasn’t changed dramatically—both jets can hit around 30 mph (50 km/h), depending on your setup. But the big difference is in throttle response and torque delivery.

• Flite Jet 1 had a slight delay when you pulled the trigger. It wasn’t huge, but you felt it.
• Flite Jet 2 delivers power more immediately, making it better for carving, wave riding, and quick adjustments.

🏆 Verdict: Flite Jet 2 doesn’t just “feel” faster—it reacts quicker, which makes everything feel more dialed in.

🌊 Hydrodynamics & Efficiency: How Does It Impact Battery Life?

“Does Flite Jet 2 really increase ride time?”

A more streamlined, hydrodynamic design means less resistance in the water, which translates to:
✅ More efficient battery usage (10-15% improvement)
✅ Less energy wasted fighting drag
✅ Smoother overall feel when cruising

🏆 Verdict: Flite Jet 2 rides longer on the same battery—if you’re pushing long sessions, this matters.

🎯 Final Takeaway: What’s Actually Different?

Flite Jet 2 isn’t just a minor tweak—it’s a noticeable improvement in noise, efficiency, and ride feel. If you value a smoother, quieter, more intuitive experience, it’s a real upgrade.

🚀 Performance Breakdown: Speed, Efficiency, and Ride Feel

“How much better is Flite Jet 2 in real-world conditions?”

Specs are one thing—but how do these propulsion systems actually perform when you’re on the water? The real difference between Flite Jet 1 and Flite Jet 2 comes down to efficiency, responsiveness, and overall ride feel.

If you’re wondering, “Will Flite Jet 2 make my board faster?”, the short answer is: not necessarily in top speed, but definitely in how you get there.

⚡ Speed & Acceleration: Does Flite Jet 2 Feel Faster?

“Is Flite Jet 2 actually faster, or just smoother?”

While both systems can push speeds of 30 mph (50 km/h), the difference is in how that speed is achieved and controlled.

• Flite Jet 1: Good acceleration, but with a slight delay when throttling up.
• Flite Jet 2: More immediate power delivery, meaning quicker acceleration, better mid-range control, and less “lag” when adjusting speed.

Think of it like this:
🚗 Flite Jet 1 = A smooth highway cruiser. Good power, but it takes a moment to get going.
🏎️ Flite Jet 2 = A tuned sports car. Instant throttle response, making it more fun and reactive.

🏆 Verdict: Flite Jet 2 feels faster, even if top speed is about the same.

🔊 Noise: Is Flite Jet 2 Actually Quieter?

“Does a quieter eFoil really change the ride experience?”

If you’ve ever ridden an eFoil at full throttle, you know that noise affects immersion. A constant whine can remind you that you’re riding a motorized board, while a quieter system lets you focus on the feeling of gliding over water.

Here’s the difference:
🔹 Flite Jet 1: Noticeable whine, especially at full speed.
🔹 Flite Jet 2: 40% quieter, meaning the loudest thing you’ll hear is your own stoke.

🏆 Verdict: If you love the feeling of pure, uninterrupted flow, Flite Jet 2 is a huge step up.

🔋 Efficiency & Battery Life: Will Flite Jet 2 Let You Ride Longer?

“Does Flite Jet 2 really improve range and battery life?”

🔹 Flite Jet 2’s new hydrodynamic design reduces drag, which means the motor doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain speed.
🔹 This results in a 10-15% increase in efficiency, which translates to longer ride times.

How much longer?

• If you’re used to 60 minutes of ride time on Flite Jet 1, expect to get 66-70 minutes on Flite Jet 2 with the same conditions and battery setup.

🏆 Verdict: It won’t double your ride time, but it will let you ride longer on the same battery.

🌊 Ride Feel & Carving: Does Flite Jet 2 Improve Handling?

“Does Flite Jet 2 feel more natural in turns?”

If you’re the kind of rider who loves to carve deep turns, play in small waves, or just feel connected to the board, this is where Flite Jet 2 really shines.

• Flite Jet 1: Great stability, but edge transitions felt a little stiff.
• Flite Jet 2: More fluid movement from edge to edge, making carves feel smoother and more intuitive.

🏆 Verdict: If carving and responsiveness matter to you, Flite Jet 2 is a clear win.

🎯 Final Takeaway: Performance That Feels Like an Upgrade

If you care about faster response time, quieter operation, longer battery life, and a smoother ride, Flite Jet 2 is a noticeable improvement over the original.

But does that mean Flite Jet 1 is outdated? Not necessarily. Next up, let’s talk about who should upgrade—and why some riders might still prefer a propeller system.

Who Should Upgrade to Flite Jet 2?

“Is Flite Jet 2 worth upgrading to?”

If you’re asking this, you probably already own a Flite Jet 1 setup—or you’re trying to decide which one to buy. Here’s who will see the biggest benefits from Flite Jet 2.

✅ Riders who value a quiet, immersive ride

• The noise reduction isn’t just marketing—it’s real, and it makes the entire riding experience feel more premium.
• If you love that feeling of flying effortlessly over water, Flite Jet 2 makes that sensation even stronger.

✅ Carving & wave riders who need better responsiveness

• If you love surf-style riding, deep carves, and smooth turns, Flite Jet 2’s better throttle response and fluid weight transfers make a real difference.
• It feels more natural when transitioning edge to edge—something that Flite Jet 1 never quite nailed.

✅ Riders who want longer battery life

• If you’re riding long-distance routes or pushing for extended sessions, Flite Jet 2’s efficiency boost (10-15% longer ride times) will keep you on the water longer.

✅ Anyone who felt the “lag” in Flite Jet 1’s throttle response

• If you ever noticed a slight delay when accelerating, Flite Jet 2 fixes that with more instant torque delivery.

🏆 Best for: Riders who want the smoothest, most refined eFoiling experience with longer ride times and better handling.

💭 Who Might Stick with Flite Jet 1?

“Is Flite Jet 1 still good enough?”

While Flite Jet 2 is a clear upgrade, not every rider will feel the need to switch. Here’s why some might stick with the original:

❌ If you mainly cruise at lower speeds

• If you’re just casually riding on flat water and aren’t pushing for max performance, Flite Jet 1 is still a great system.
• The improvements in Flite Jet 2 are noticeable but not game-changing for slow-speed cruising.

❌ If you don’t mind a bit of extra noise

• Flite Jet 1 does have more motor noise, but if that doesn’t bother you, it’s not a dealbreaker.
• Some riders don’t care as much about immersion—they just want a solid ride.

❌ If you don’t need the extra battery efficiency

• If you’re already happy with your ride times, the 10-15% efficiency boost in Flite Jet 2 might not be enough to justify the switch.

🏆 Best for: Riders who are already happy with Flite Jet 1’s performance and don’t feel the need to squeeze out extra efficiency or smoothness.

🌊 The Verdict: Does Flite Jet 2 Make a Noticeable Difference?

If you’re the kind of rider who values smoothness, control, and efficiency, Flite Jet 2 is 100% worth the upgrade.

But if you’re happy cruising on flat water and don’t feel like you’re missing anything, Flite Jet 1 is still a great propulsion system.

That said, there’s one more factor we need to talk about—the propeller system. Because for some riders, neither jet is the best option.

🚀 Next up: Why Some Riders Still Prefer a Propeller Over a Jet System.

The Case for Flite Prop: Why Some Riders Still Prefer a Propeller Over a Jet

“Is Flite Jet really better than a propeller, or is there still a case for the classic setup?”

With all the talk about jet propulsion, it’s easy to assume that Flite Jet 2 is the best option for every rider. But that’s not entirely true. While the jet system offers safety, smoothness, and quiet performance, Fliteboard still sells the classic propeller-driven setup (Flite Prop)—and for good reason.

So, let’s break it down: when does a propeller actually outperform a jet, and why do some riders still prefer it?

🔍 Prop vs. Jet: What’s the Key Difference?

At its core, the choice between Flite Jet and Flite Prop comes down to efficiency, control, and riding style.

🌊 Why Some Riders Still Prefer Flite Prop

❇️ It’s More Efficient (Longer Ride Times)

• Even though Flite Jet 2 is more efficient than its predecessor, Flite Prop is still the most energy-efficient option.
• Removing the prop guard improves efficiency even further, allowing more water to flow through the system with less resistance.

❇️ More Direct Power Delivery

• A propeller reacts instantly to throttle inputs, while a jet system slightly dampens the power delivery.
• This makes the prop feel more responsive, especially for riders who want immediate acceleration.

❇️ Better for Surf-Style Riding & Wave Gliding

• Riders who love using ocean waves for energy prefer the True Glide Prop, which lets them turn the motor off and ride waves naturally.
• A jet system always has some drag, which means it’s harder to fully disengage from the power and truly surf the wave.

❓ So, Who Should Stick with the Propeller?

If any of the following sound like you, Flite Prop might be the better choice:

✅ You want the most efficient setup possible (longest ride times).
✅ You prioritize power transfer and direct acceleration.
✅ You ride in the ocean and want to glide waves without motor resistance.
✅ You’re comfortable with an open propeller system and don’t mind the extra safety consideration.

🚀 In short: If you’re a performance-driven rider or wave chaser, a propeller might still be the best option.

🏁 The Final Verdict: Flite Jet 2 vs. Flite Prop—Which One is Right for You?

At the end of the day, both propulsion systems have their place. It all depends on what you value most in your ride.

Go with Flite Jet 2 if you want:

✅ The smoothest, quietest, most refined ride.
✅ A fully enclosed system with no exposed propeller.
✅ A setup that’s ideal for cruising, carving, and progression.

Stick with Flite Prop if you want:

✅ The longest ride times and most efficient propulsion system.
✅ A more reactive, instant throttle response.
✅ The ability to fully disengage and ride waves naturally.

🚀 Final Thoughts: Is Flite Jet 2 the Future of eFoiling?

Fliteboard has clearly put a ton of R&D into refining jet propulsion, making Flite Jet 2 a serious upgrade for most riders. But the fact that they still offer a propeller option shows that there’s no “one-size-fits-all” solution for eFoil propulsion.

Whether you choose Flite Jet 2 for its smoothness and safety or Flite Prop for its efficiency and wave-riding capabilities, one thing is clear: Fliteboard continues to lead the industry in pushing eFoil technology forward.

🔥 What’s your setup? Let us know which propulsion system you ride—and why.

 Final Thoughts: Why Flite Jet 2 is a Big Step Forward—But Why the Prop is Still King for Some Riders

Flite Jet 2 is a huge step forward in jet propulsion—it’s quieter, more efficient, and delivers a noticeably smoother ride. But does that mean it’s the best option for every rider? Not necessarily.

For eFoilers in Florida’s Panhandle—Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, Panama City Beach, Fort Walton Beach, and Pensacola—where riders encounter everything from calm bay waters to open Gulf surf, the best propulsion system depends on their riding style and priorities.

At Emerald Wake, we’ve spent countless hours testing both propulsion setups, and while Flite Jet 2 is impressive, we still love the prop system—and for good reason.

🌊 Why the Flite Prop is Still the Gold Standard for Some Riders

It’s More Efficient Than Any Jet System
Flite Jet 2 has improved efficiency, but the prop system is still the most battery-efficient option.
If you want the longest ride times per charge, nothing beats a well-tuned prop setup—especially when you remove the prop guard for even less drag.

It’s More Direct and Responsive
While Flite Jet 2 is smooth, it still softens the throttle response a bit.
A propeller delivers instant power—when you pull the trigger, you feel it immediately.

It’s the Best Choice for Surf-Style Riding
For riders who love using waves for energy—especially along Pensacola Beach or Panama City Beach—the True Glide Prop is unmatched.

• A jet system always has a bit of drag, which makes it harder to fully disengage from the motor and glide naturally.
• With Flite Prop, you can turn off the motor completely and ride a wave just like traditional foiling.

It’s Proven and Versatile
The prop setup has been refined over years of testing and remains the go-to for hardcore riders.
Whether you’re cruising smooth waters in Destin, carving in Fort Walton Beach, or chasing waves near Pensacola’s Gulf Coast, Flite Prop gives you ultimate control.

The Bottom Line: Which System is Right for You?

At the end of the day, both propulsion systems have their place. It all depends on your riding style and priorities.

 If you want smooth, quiet, and effortless riding → Flite Jet 2 is the best choice.
If you want maximum efficiency and instant power delivery → Flite Prop is still the king.

Want to test both and see which one fits your ride? Book a Flite Jet 2 vs. Prop comparison session with Emerald Wake in Pensacola, Destin, or Panama City Beach and experience the difference for yourself.

Check out EmeraldWake.com and book your ride today!

🏆 So, Which One is Best?

At Emerald Wake, we see Flite Jet 2 as an incredible refinement of jet propulsion—for riders who want smooth, quiet, and effortless eFoiling, it’s the best option yet.

But if you ask our core riders, many still swear by the prop system for its:

• Pure efficiency (longest rides)
• More reactive throttle response
• Best-in-class surf performance

If you’re looking for the ultimate riding experience with zero compromises, Flite Prop is still amazing. We love both, but still feel that the prop without the guard is the highest performer. 

🚀 The Final Verdict: Fliteboard Gives You Options—And That’s What Matters

At the end of the day, Fliteboard isn’t forcing riders into one system—they’re giving you the freedom to choose.

If you want smooth, seamless riding, go for Flite Jet 2.
If you want pure efficiency and power, stick with the Flite Prop system.

If you have any questions, call (850) 400-8500 or email us at [email protected] for a personalized recommendation. We offer eFoil lessons, guided eFoil tours, eFoil demos, Flitecell battery rental, wing rental, storage and delivery options for your eFoils, and more.