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Heltec Devices

1 - Heltec T114

Heltec T114

Intro: The Heltec T114 is a modular, low‑power Meshtastic‑ready node built on the Nordic nRF52840 platform. It’s designed for flexible power options, outdoor deployments, and expansion with GPS or display modules, making it a versatile choice for both portable and backbone roles.

Key Features:

  • Nordic nRF52840 MCU with Bluetooth 5.0 support
  • SX1262 LoRa transceiver for long‑range communication
  • Frequency options: 433 MHz, 470–510 MHz, 863–870 MHz, 902–928 MHz
  • Optional 1.14″ TFT‑LCD display
  • Optional GNSS module via dedicated interface
  • Multiple power interfaces:
  • USB‑C
  • 2×1.25 lithium battery connector
  • 2×1.25 solar panel connector
  • 8×1.25 GNSS interface
  • U.FL/IPEX antenna connector for LoRa + integrated 2.4 GHz patch antenna
  • Firmware flashing via UF2 drag‑and‑drop (DFU mode with reset button double‑click)

Considerations:

  • Optional modules (GPS, display) add cost and complexity — clarify operator needs before purchase
  • Requires external antenna for optimal LoRa performance
  • Firmware flashing workflow differs from ESP32 boards (UF2 vs USB serial)
  • Best suited for solar‑powered or semi‑permanent nodes in outdoor deployments
  • More expensive than entry‑level Heltec boards, but offers better modularity and power flexibilit
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2 - Heltec v3

Heltec LoRa 32 V3

Intro: Compact and budget-friendly, the Heltec V3 is a go-to for beginners and lightweight deployments.

Key Features:

  • ESP32 MCU with integrated SX1262 LoRa
  • Small OLED display for status
  • USB-C interface
  • Affordable and widely available

Considerations:

  • Limited battery options (often USB-powered)
  • Smaller antenna connector may limit range
  • Best suited for indoor or short-range nodes
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3 - Mesh Pocket

Heltec MeshPocket

Intro: The MeshPocket is Heltec’s newest Meshtastic device, blending a daily‑use power bank with integrated LoRa communication. It’s built around the Nordic nRF52840 MCU and SX1262 transceiver, with a sleek design that makes it easy to carry while still serving as a reliable mesh node.

Key Features:

  • MCU: Nordic nRF52840 with Bluetooth 5.0
  • LoRa Transceiver: Semtech SX1262
  • Frequency Options: 863–870 MHz or 902–928 MHz
  • Display: 2.13″ e‑ink screen for low‑power status updates
  • Battery: 5000 mAh or 10000 mAh options
  • Charging: Qi2 magnetic wireless charging + USB‑C
  • Connectors: Magnetic pogo pin cable for firmware flashing
  • Form Factor: Pocket‑sized, designed for daily carry and outdoor use

Considerations:

  • Firmware flashing requires the magnetic pogo pin cable (not standard USB).
  • No physical buttons for messaging — interaction is limited to display and app pairing.
  • Best suited for activators or everyday users who want a dual‑purpose device (power bank + mesh node).
  • Battery life is excellent, but the larger 10,000 mAh version adds bulk.
  • Ideal for off‑grid scenarios like contests, outdoor exploration, or emergency communication.
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4 - Paper Mesh

Heltec Wireless Paper (Paper Mesh)

Intro: The Wireless Paper is Heltec’s e‑ink variant of their LoRa boards, built for Meshtastic. It combines the ESP32 MCU with the SX1262 LoRa transceiver and a 2.13″ e‑ink screen, making it ideal for low‑power, always‑visible status displays in a mesh network.

Key Features:

  • MCU: ESP32‑S3FN8 with Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth support
  • LoRa Transceiver: Semtech SX1262
  • Frequency Options: 433 MHz, 470–510 MHz, 863–870 MHz, 902–928 MHz
  • Display: 2.13″ e‑ink screen (black/white, ultra‑low power)
  • Connectors: USB‑C for power/programming, U.FL/IPEX antenna connector
  • Form Factor: Slim board with acrylic protection option
  • Power: SH1.25 battery connector for external Li‑Po packs

Considerations:

  • Screen support varies by firmware version — some revisions (e.g., V1.1.1) had issues with e‑ink compatibility.
  • No case included — operators often need to 3D‑print or adapt enclosures.
  • Best for fixed or semi‑portable nodes where low‑power display is useful (status, packet counts, node ID).
  • Not as rugged as Station‑class devices — better suited for hobbyist or indoor deployments.
  • Affordable option (~$17–20 on AliExpress) compared to OLED boards.
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