Bugaboo Butterfly vs Joolz Aer: Which premium stroller is better?

These are the two most popular premium compact strollers at the moment. Both travel strollers look super stylish, and its owners clearly have good taste 🙂 Can’t decide? Let’s compare the Bugaboo Butterfly vs the Joolz Aer+ across 10 dimensions to see which one is best for you.

TLDR: The Joolz Aer+ is lighter and more compact, but the Bugaboo Butterfly packs in more features you would normally find in a larger stroller.

Category	Joolz Aer+	Bugaboo Butterfly
Open Size (L x W x H)	32.7″ x 17.7″ x 41.5″	✅36.4″ x 17.7″ x 40.3″
Folded Size (L x W x H)	✅21″ x 17.7″ x 8.5″	21.3″ x 17.7″ x 9.1″
Weight	✅13.2 lbs	16.1 lbs
Seat Weight Limit	✅50 lbs	48.5 lbs
Basket Weight Limit	11 lbs	✅17.6 lbs
Recline Range	Standard recline, with zip	✅One hand recline to 145°
Canopy	Extra large 3 panel extendable sun hood with smaller ventilation panel	✅Extra large 4-panel extendable canopy with ventilation panel
Included Accessories	Travel bag, carry strap	✅Leg rest, seat inlay, integrated carry strap

Let’s dive into the details!

Open and Folded Size

Joolz Aer+:

• Unfolded: 32.7″ L x 17.7″ W x 41.5″ H
• Folded: 21″ L x 17.7″ W x 8.5″ H

Bugaboo Butterfly:

• Unfolded: 36.42″ L x 17.72″ W x 40.31″ H
• Folded: 21.26″ L x 17.72″ W x 9.06″ H

Verdict: The Joolz Aer+ is smaller than the Bugaboo when folded by less than 1″ in each dimension, which can make a big difference overall. However, the Bugaboo Butterfly’s folded dimensions are also airline overhead bin compatible.

Stroller Weight

Joolz Aer+: 13.2 lbs

Bugaboo Butterfly: 16.09 lbs (includes leg rest, carry strap & seat inlay) ​

Verdict: The Joolz Aer+ is lighter by nearly 3 lbs, which can make a difference when carrying it through airports or lifting it into overhead compartments.​

Seat and Basket Weight Limits

Joolz Aer+:

• Seat Capacity: Up to 50 lbs
• Basket Capacity: Up to 11 lbs

Bugaboo Butterfly:

• Seat Capacity: Up to 48.5 lbs
• Basket Capacity: Up to 17.64 lbs

Verdict: While both strollers accommodate children up to approximately 4 years old, the Bugaboo Butterfly offers a more generous basket capacity, which is beneficial for carrying additional items during outings.​

Price

HOT TIP: Brands will lower the price of existing models if they are about to release a new one. The newest models aren’t always better or significantly different. This is how I was able to snag brand new strollers for 45% off full price!

Check both on Amazon using the buttons below, and on the manufacturer’s website. I recommend buying on Amazon for no-hassle returns and quick delivery.

Verdict: Both strollers have prices that vary around $400-$449 – you should check the current prices on multiple platforms before buying.

Ease of Use

Joolz Aer+:

• Folding: One-handed fold in one second
• Drive: Highly maneuverable with smooth steering; however, it may not perform as well on rough terrain

Bugaboo Butterfly:

• Folding: One-second fold without adjusting anything
• Drive: Sturdy and easy to maneuver, suitable for various terrains

Verdict: Both strollers offer quick and easy folding mechanisms. The Bugaboo Butterfly may have a slight edge in handling diverse terrains.​

Comfort and Recline

Joolz Aer+:

• Recline: Reclines to 33°. However, unlike most strollers, the recline releases via a zip. The exact position can then be adjusted using a strap on one side.
• Seat: Ergonomic, patented seat supporting back and neck

Bugaboo Butterfly:

• Recline: One-hand recline from 111° to 145°
• Seat: Large, adjustable seat with extra padded cushioning

Verdict: The Bugaboo Butterfly offers a deeper recline range, providing more flexibility for naps and relaxation.​

Canopy Size

Joolz Aer+: Features a large, 3 panel extendable sun hood that can cover the whole torso. The ventilation / peekaboo window is the size of half of one panel.

Bugaboo Butterfly: Large, extendable 4-panel sun canopy with one whole panel as a ventilation / peekaboo window.

Verdict: Both strollers provide ample sun protection, but the Bugaboo Butterfly‘s extra large ventilation window is more aesthetic and convenient.

Braking System

Verdict: Both have a convenient single pedal footbrake

Handlebar

Joolz Aer+: Fixed handlebar height

Bugaboo Butterfly: Fixed handlebar height at 40.31 inches

Verdict:
Both strollers have fixed-height handlebars, which may not be ideal for parents who prefer adjustable options. The Bugaboo Butterfly handlebar stands at 40.31 inches, which is slightly taller than many ultra-compact strollers and could be more comfortable for taller parents. Most users report that the Joolz Aer+ feels slightly lower than the Butterfly.

Accessories

Joolz Aer+ Included Accessories:

• Travel bag
• Carry strap
• Rain cover (sometimes included depending on retailer)

Bugaboo Butterfly Included Accessories:

• Integrated carry strap
• Seat inlay
• Leg rest

Verdict:
The Joolz Aer+ includes a travel bag, which is a nice touch if you’re frequently flying, and indicates the kind of families they are targeting. On the other hand, the Bugaboo Butterfly includes a leg rest and seat inlay, adding to the comfort without needing extra purchases. A leg rest is invaluable for naps, and the one on the bugaboo doubles as a carry handle, so I’d say the Bugaboo Butterfly wins this one. Both brands sell a wide range of accessories to customize your stroller setup.

Final Thoughts: Bugaboo Butterfly vs Joolz Aer+

Choosing between the Bugaboo Butterfly vs Joolz Aer+, it really comes down to which particular feature matters most to you.

Choose the Joolz Aer+ if you want:

• A lighter stroller that’s easier to carry
• A sleeker, more compact fold
• A stroller that comes with a travel bag

Choose the Bugaboo Butterfly if you want:

• A roomier seat with deeper recline
• A larger basket for carrying more stuff
• Included leg rest and cushioned seat inlay

Both are top-tier travel strollers that can handle daily use and global adventures. No matter which one you pick, you’ll be investing in a stylish, smartly-designed stroller that’s built to move with your family.

See how the Joolz Aer+ stacks up against the UPPAbaby Minu V3 and Babyzen YOYO here.

If you’ve tried either of these strollers (or both!), let me know in the comments — I’d love to hear how they’ve worked for your family!