Best emergency radio devices 2025
Compare the 5 best LoRa radio devices for MeshCore mesh network in the Netherlands. From budget to premium – find the perfect emergency radio device for your situation.
Important warning: only buy 868 MHz devices!
For use in Europe (and the Netherlands) you must buy a device that supports the 868 MHz frequency band. There are also 915 MHz devices, but those are only for the USA and may not be used in Europe. Always check this before purchasing!
Which emergency radio device suits you?
Want to be prepared for emergencies without internet in the Netherlands? Then you need a reliable LoRa radio device for the MeshCore mesh network. But which device should you choose? There are dozens of models available, from budget options to premium devices with extra features.
In this comprehensive guide, we compare the 5 best emergency radio devices of 2025 that work perfectly with MeshCore. We look at range, battery life, ease of use, price and reliability. Whether you have a budget of €50 or are willing to invest €150 – there's something for everyone.
All mentioned devices are tested by the Dutch LocalMesh community and work reliably in the growing mesh network in the Netherlands. Note: LocalMesh does not sell devices itself, but helps you make the right choice.
Top 5 emergency radio devices 2025
These devices have been tested and recommended by the community for use with MeshCore in the Netherlands. Note: only buy devices for 868 MHz (Europe) – not 915 MHz (USA)!
LilyGo T-Deck Plus
The LilyGo T-Deck Plus is the perfect device for absolute beginners. It works out-of-the-box with built-in screen and keyboard. You don't need to use a smartphone – everything works standalone. Connect it and start communicating immediately!
Specifications
- LoRa 868 MHz + built-in keyboard
- Color screen + WiFi + Bluetooth
- 3-5 days battery life (standard use)
Advantages
Works out-of-the-box, no smartphone needed, very user-friendly, perfect for beginners without technical knowledge
Price: €80-110 (Aliexpress)
Heltec LoRa 32 V3 or V4
The Heltec V3 or V4 are excellent choices if you understand computers and wifi setup. Good performance and value for money. The V4 is newer but not widely available yet, the V3 is proven and easier to find. Note: buy the complete kit with antenna, case and battery – not just the board!
Specifications
- LoRa SX1262 868 MHz chip (up to 10+ km range)
- OLED screen + WiFi + Bluetooth
- 3-7 days battery life (standard use)
Advantages
Good value for money, active community support, regular firmware updates, V3 on Amazon and Aliexpress, V4 mainly Aliexpress
Price: €50-70 (V3 on Amazon/Aliexpress, V4 on Aliexpress)
LilyGO T-Beam Supreme
The T-Beam Supreme is the most complete device with built-in GPS. Perfect for those who find location sharing important for emergency communication. Slightly more expensive, but you get premium features.
Specifications
- LoRa SX1262 868 MHz + GPS module
- OLED screen + 18650 battery
- 4-10 days battery life (depending on GPS use)
Advantages
GPS tracking, robust case option, large battery, very suitable as repeater
Price: €75-90 (Aliexpress)
RAK WisBlock Meshtastic Starter Kit
The RAK WisBlock is modular: you can choose which sensors and features to add yourself. Suitable for advanced users who want a custom setup.
Specifications
- LoRa SX1262 + modular sensors
- E-ink screen option + expandable
- 5-20 days battery life (depending on configuration)
Advantages
Fully customizable, professional quality, suitable for sensors (temperature, humidity)
Price: €90-130 (RAK Wireless)
Heltec Wireless Stick Lite V3
The most affordable option without a screen. Perfect if you only want to communicate via smartphone or if you want to set up a budget repeater.
Specifications
- LoRa SX1262 (no screen)
- WiFi + Bluetooth
- 2-5 days battery life (smaller battery)
Advantages
Cheapest option, light and compact, ideal for repeaters, works fine with smartphone
Price: €35-45 (Aliexpress)
What to look for when buying?
There are five important factors that determine which emergency radio device suits you best:
1. Frequency: 868 MHz for Europe!
Note: only buy devices for 868 MHz (Europe)! American devices work on 915 MHz and are not allowed in Europe. All devices above use the SX1262 LoRa chip, the newest and most powerful version. Older models use SX1276 (less range, more power consumption). For the Netherlands, SX1262 is recommended. Expect ~1km range in the city, 10+ km in open field.
2. Screen: yes or no?
A built-in screen (OLED or e-ink) is useful for reading messages without a smartphone. During emergencies, your phone might not work anymore or the battery might be dead. A device with a screen gives you independence. E-ink screens (T-Echo) are power-efficient and readable in sunlight.
3. Battery life and charging options
During prolonged crisis situations, battery life is crucial. E-ink devices last the longest (7-14 days). OLED screens consume more power (3-7 days). Devices with 18650 batteries (T-Beam) are easily replaceable. Also check if the device has USB-C for charging via powerbank or solar panel.
4. GPS and location sharing
Some devices have GPS built-in (T-Beam, T-Echo). This allows you to share your location with others in the network – useful during evacuations or if you're lost. GPS does consume extra battery. For use as a repeater at home, GPS is not needed.
5. Budget and usage
For absolute beginners without technical knowledge we recommend the LilyGo T-Deck Plus (€80-110): works out-of-the-box with keyboard and screen. Do you understand computers a bit? Then the Heltec V3 or V4 (€50-70) is an excellent choice. For a budget repeater, the Wireless Stick Lite (€35-45) is perfect.
Why a LoRa emergency radio device?
Works without internet
LoRa radio technology works completely without internet, WiFi, mobile networks or central infrastructure. Perfect for emergency situations.
Long battery life
LoRa devices last days to weeks on a single battery. Much more efficient than smartphones or other communication devices.
No subscription
One-time purchase from €35. No monthly costs, no provider, no extra subscriptions. Completely free to use.
Growing network
The MeshCore network is growing fast in the Netherlands. In The Hague, Amsterdam, Rotterdam and other cities there are active communities and repeaters.
Encrypted and private
Private messages are end-to-end encrypted. Only you and the receiver can read them. No one else can intercept messages.
Easy to use
Connect via Bluetooth to your smartphone. Sending messages is as simple as WhatsApp. Also suitable for people without technical knowledge.
Comparison at a glance
| Device | Range | Battery Life | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| LilyGo T-Deck Plus | ~1km city, 10+ km open | 3-5 days | Price: €80-110 (Aliexpress) |
| Heltec LoRa 32 V3 or V4 | ~1km city, 10+ km open | 3-7 days | Price: €50-70 (V3 on Amazon/Aliexpress, V4 on Aliexpress) |
| LilyGO T-Beam Supreme | ~1km city, 10+ km open | 4-10 days (GPS off: longer) | Price: €75-90 (Aliexpress) |
| RAK WisBlock Meshtastic Starter Kit | ~1km city, 10+ km open | 5-20 days (configurable) | Price: €90-130 (RAK Wireless) |
| Heltec Wireless Stick Lite V3 | ~1km city, 10+ km open | 2-5 days (small battery) | Price: €35-45 (Aliexpress) |
Frequently asked questions
Note: 868 MHz or 915 MHz?
Very important: For use in the Netherlands and Europe you must buy a device that works on 868 MHz. American devices work on 915 MHz and may not be used in Europe. Always check this with your order – on Aliexpress and Amazon both versions are often offered!
Where can I buy these emergency radio devices?
LocalMesh does not sell devices itself. Most devices are available via Aliexpress. Some devices like the Heltec V3 can also be found on Amazon, but newer models like the Heltec V4 are usually only available via Aliexpress. Check the community for current purchasing tips and possible group purchases with discounts.
Which device is best for beginners?
For absolute beginners we recommend the LilyGo T-Deck Plus. It works out-of-the-box with built-in screen and keyboard. Do you understand computers and wifi a bit? Then the Heltec V3 or V4 are excellent choices with more options. The V4 is newer, but the V3 is proven and easier to find.
Can I use older models (SX1276 chip)?
Yes, older devices with SX1276 LoRa chip also work, but have less range and use more battery. For new purchases we recommend SX1262 – it's more powerful, more efficient and future-proof.
Do I need a smartphone?
Not necessarily. Devices with a screen (T-Deck Plus, Heltec V3/V4, T-Beam) can be used standalone. You can read and send messages without a phone. Via Bluetooth you can connect a smartphone for extra convenience.
What is the difference between a repeater and a normal device?
Every MeshCore device can function as a repeater: it automatically forwards messages to other devices. For a fixed repeater at home or in a high place, the cheap Wireless Stick Lite is ideal. Battery life is less important when you connect it to power.
Choose the right emergency radio device
With a reliable LoRa radio device you are prepared for emergency situations in the Netherlands. Whether you choose the user-friendly T-Deck Plus, the popular Heltec V3 or V4, the complete T-Beam with GPS, or the budget-friendly Wireless Stick Lite – all devices work excellently with MeshCore. Don't forget: only buy 868 MHz devices!
Become part of the growing mesh network in the Netherlands. Order your device and join.