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Recommended Hardware

There are tons of options for hardware when it comes to Meshtastic. From prebuilt setups for the beginners all the way to DIY setups for custom deployments in cars, routers or base stations. We’ll try our best to account for as many levels of users that visit the site and want to get into Meshtastic.

For the user who wants to just get involved or not wanting to assemble anything there are some easy solutions to invest in. Heltec ESP32 V3 Heltec V3 Node Kit comes with a case already that takes minimal assembly and an easy barrier to entry with a low cost to get started. The ESP versions are good but given that it’s based on ESP32 battery life becomes the concern. The ESP modules tend to use the battery quicker than a something based on NRF style chip. The base option here doesn’t not have GPS and would need to be added separately. Since it doesn’t have the GPIO headers it would require customer work. Here is another good option for an Heltec v3 providing you all the hardware you need to get started: Pacific North Heltec Kit

The T114 kit from Muzi Works Muzi Works T114 Kit is another option for low entry into Meshtastic. While it is a little more in price you are getting a complete kit including the T114, Battery, GPS Module, Antenna and case. The T114 is based on the NRF processors which are super-efficient on battery life.

Another great NRF build is from Rokland. They have released their WisMesh Pocket Rokland WishMesh Pocket which is a small version of the Rak Wireless board, screen, battery, GPS Module. Given that this is based on an NRF module you can expect to get great battery life out of it as well as functionality with the screen.

Check back as we will add new options as they come out. Check out the blog posts as well for options that will have some 3d printing involved, but still low cost to entry. The rest of the links here will help you choose for more custom builds and other options to consider when building a Meshtastic node

Please note we are not affiliated with any of these links. We do not get any kick back, these are not affiliated likes just recommendations we believe is a good place to start

1 - Antennas

Whether you’re building a portable mobile node or a fixed base station, selecting the right antenna for your application is essential to ensure optimal performance. The recommendations provided here are sourced from community insights and practical experiences. Keep in mind that results may vary depending on your specific use case. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to reach out to us on Discord or via email

1.1 - TE Connectivity Linx 915MHz Antenna

Amazon

TE Antenna

$21.99

Series ½-wave center-fed dipole antennas are designed for outdoor and indoor use. They deliver outstanding performance in a rugged and cosmetically attractive package. The antenna contains a helical element and internal counterpoise which eliminates external ground plane dependence and maximizes performance.

It’s great low cost option for starting out. Does not require a ground plane.

1.2 - ALFA Network AOA-915-5ACM 5 dbi Omni Antenna

Amazon

Alfa Network 5dbi Antenna

$16.97

Compact, 7 inch height. Great for mobile or base station builds

5 dbi omni antenna with Male N connector to attach directly to a bulkhead connector.

1.3 - Generic Amazon Mobile Antenna

Amazon

Generic Lora Antenna

$9.99 (Two Pack of Antennas)

Compact, 3dbi, Great for Mobile that would be carried with the user

1.4 - Raigen 5.8dbi Antenna

Amazon

Generic Lora Antenna

$31.95

Another Great use case for a base station or higher up location. Can also be used for a client or potentially a router. Good build quality and ready for deployment

1.5 - Rockland 6dbi Antenna Kit

Rokland Lora Antenna

Rockland 6dbi Antenna Kit

$29.97

Great Antenna for Router or higher up node. Potentially great for a base station Node as well

1.6 - Rockland 8dbi Antenna Kit

Rokland Lora Antenna

Rockland 8dbi Antenna Kit

$34.97

Great Antenna for Router or higher up node. Potentially great for a base station Node as well

2 - Radios

There are dozens of options for radio, including kits that you could build yourself (some cases with 3d printing) and others that are all in one solutions. We will try to break down those options here.

Simple Options like the RAK Wireless WisMesh v2 will give you a turn key option to start using Meshtastic!

Rak WisMesh V2

Another good option for a built-in node would be the LilyGo T-Echo. Also put together, it brings a low entry barrier to use and get started with Meshtastic.

LilyGo T-Echo

2.1 - Heltec Devices

2.2 - LilyGo Devices

2.3 - Rak Devices

2.4 -