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LilyGo Devices
- 1: LoRa T3-S3
- 2: T-Beam
- 3: T-Beam Supreme
- 4: T-Deck
- 5: T-Echo
1 - LoRa T3-S3
LILYGO LoRa T3-S3
Intro: The T3-S3 is a modern ESP32-S3-based board with LoRa, offering stability and performance for fixed or semi-permanent nodes.
Key Features:
- ESP32-S3 MCU with SX1262 LoRa
- USB-C interface for easy power and programming
- Larger antenna connector for improved range
- Designed for continuous backbone operation
Considerations:
- Larger footprint compared to handheld nodes
- Requires external antenna for optimal performance
- Best for club field stations or backbone nodes supporting wide coverag
2 - T-Beam
LILYGO TTGO T-Beam
Intro: The T-Beam is one of the most widely used Meshtastic nodes, combining ESP32 power with GPS and LoRa. It’s versatile for both portable and fixed deployments.
Key Features:
- ESP32 MCU with Wi-Fi/Bluetooth support
- SX1262 LoRa transceiver
- Built-in GPS module
- USB-C charging and battery support
Considerations:
- Larger form factor compared to Heltec boards
- Requires external antenna for best range
- Battery life depends on configuration and duty cycl
3 - T-Beam Supreme
The LilyGO T-Beam Supreme is a standout device for Meshtastic enthusiasts, offering a feature-rich platform that balances performance, versatility, and ease of use. Here’s why it’s a great choice for your mesh networking projects:
Key Features
- Powerful Hardware: The T-Beam Supreme is equipped with the ESP32 microcontroller and the SX1262 LoRa transceiver, providing excellent range and reliability for mesh communication. The SX1262 chip offers improved sensitivity and transmission power compared to older models.
- Integrated GPS: With a built-in GPS module, the T-Beam Supreme is perfect for location-based applications within Meshtastic networks, such as tracking and navigation.
- Battery Support: The device includes a slot for an 18650 lithium-ion battery, making it ideal for portable or off-grid use. It also supports USB-C charging, a modern and convenient feature.
- OLED Display: The integrated OLED screen allows users to monitor key information, such as GPS coordinates and network status, without needing additional peripherals.
- Enhanced Antenna Design: The T-Beam Supreme features an SMA connector for external antennas, enabling users to optimize signal strength and range.
Considerations While the T-Beam Supreme is a robust device, its power consumption may be higher than some alternatives, especially during GPS usage. This makes it less ideal for long-term battery-powered applications without additional power-saving measures.
The LilyGO T-Beam Supreme is a powerful and versatile device that excels in Meshtastic networks. Its combination of advanced features, ease of use, and strong community support makes it a top choice for anyone looking to explore or expand their mesh networking capabilities.
5 - T-Echo
LILYGO T-Echo
Intro: The T-Echo is a handheld Meshtastic device with a screen and buttons, designed for direct messaging in the field.
Key Features:
- ESP32 MCU with SX1262 LoRa
- Built-in screen and navigation buttons
- Compact, handheld design
- Rechargeable battery
Considerations:
- Higher cost than T-Beam/Heltec
- Smaller screen limits message readability
- Best for activators and portable use cases