Choosing Your First Device

Overview

Choosing your first Meshtastic device can be overwhelming. This guide breaks down the options and helps you pick the right one for your needs.

Quick Recommendations

Just want an answer? Here’s what we recommend: (prices may be out-of-date)

Use Case	Recommendation	Price
First device, general use	Heltec V3	~$20-25
GPS tracking important	LilyGo T-Beam	~$35-45
Maximum portability	Heltec V3	~$20-25
Solar/permanent install	RAK WisBlock	~$50-80
Premium experience	Station G2	~$80-100

Key Considerations

1. Built-in GPS

Some devices have GPS built in, others don’t:

• With GPS: LilyGo T-Beam, RAK WisBlock (with GPS module), Station G2
• Without GPS: Heltec V3, most basic boards

If you want to share your location or track assets, get a device with GPS. If you just want messaging from a fixed location, you can skip it.

2. Screen

Having a screen lets you:

• See messages without your phone
• Check battery status
• View node information

Most popular devices (Heltec, T-Beam) include small OLED screens.

3. Battery

• Heltec V3: Small internal battery holder, limited capacity
• T-Beam: 18650 battery slot - easy to swap, high capacity
• Station G2: Built-in battery with USB-C charging

For portable use, the T-Beam’s swappable 18650 batteries are convenient.

4. Case/Enclosure

Consider whether you want:

• A bare board (cheapest, most hackable)
• A basic case (protects the device)
• A weatherproof enclosure (for outdoor installation)

Popular Devices Compared

Heltec LoRa 32 V3

Best for: Budget-conscious beginners, portable use

Pros:

• Inexpensive (~$20)
• Compact size
• Built-in screen
• USB-C charging
• Good community support

Cons:

• No GPS
• Small battery capacity
• Needs external antenna for best range

LilyGo T-Beam

Best for: GPS tracking, longer battery life

Pros:

• Built-in GPS
• 18650 battery (swappable, high capacity)
• Built-in screen
• Well-documented

Cons:

• Larger form factor
• Micro USB (not USB-C on older versions)
• Slightly more expensive

RAK WisBlock

Best for: Custom builds, solar installations

Pros:

• Modular design
• Low power consumption
• Great for solar projects
• Industrial quality

Cons:

• More complex assembly
• Higher cost for full kit
• Steeper learning curve

Station G2

Best for: Premium experience, ease of use

Pros:

• Ready to use out of box
• Built-in GPS and battery
• Professional enclosure
• USB-C

Cons:

• Higher price
• Less hackable
• Proprietary enclosure

Where to Buy

Amazon (Fast Shipping)

• Heltec V3
• LilyGo T-Beam
• Various accessories

AliExpress (Budget Option)

• All devices cheaper
• 2-4 week shipping
• Direct from manufacturer

Specialty Retailers

• Rokland (US-based, antenna specialists)
• Neil Hao’s store (T-Beam accessories)
• RAK Store (WisBlock ecosystem)

Our Charleston Recommendation

For Charleston specifically, we recommend the Heltec V3 or T-Beam because:

1. Flat terrain - We don’t need extreme range; mesh density matters more
2. Hurricane prep - Swappable batteries (T-Beam) or USB power banks work great
3. Community support - Most local members use these devices, so help is available

What Else You’ll Need

Regardless of device, plan to get:

1. Better antenna - The included antennas are often mediocre. A $10-15 upgrade makes a big difference.
2. Case (if not included) - 3D printed or purchased
3. Power solution - USB power bank, battery, or wall adapter

Next Steps

Once you’ve chosen your device:

1. Order it (Amazon for speed, AliExpress for savings)
2. While waiting, join our Discord and introduce yourself
3. Read the Flashing Firmware guide
4. Come to a meetup - we can help with initial setup!