Heltec V2
Previous generation Heltec board with ESP32 and SX1276 LoRa. Still usable but replaced by the V3.
Important: 868 MHz for Europe
Always buy the 868 MHz version for use in Europe. The 915 MHz version (US) is not allowed in Europe.
What is the Heltec V2?
The Heltec WiFi LoRa 32 V2 is the previous generation of Heltec's popular LoRa development board. It combines an ESP32 dual-core processor with the SX1276/SX1278 LoRa chip and a 0.96" OLED screen.
While this board is still functional for mesh networks, it has been officially phased out by Heltec. The newer V3 offers better performance, lower power consumption and more modern components.
Note: This product is phased out - Heltec no longer produces new V2 boards. Consider the Heltec V3 or V4 for new projects.
Technical Specifications
| Chipset | ESP32-D0 (dual-core 32-bit MCU) + SX1276/SX1278 LoRa |
| LoRa Frequency | 868 MHz (EU) - Note: buy the correct version! |
| Display | 0.96" OLED, 128x64 pixels (SSD1306) |
| Battery | External 3.7V Li-ion via SH1.25-2 connector (not included) |
| GPS | No (not built-in) |
| WiFi / Bluetooth | WiFi 802.11 b/g/n + Bluetooth (classic + BLE) |
| Dimensions | 50.2 x 25.5 mm (compact board format) |
| Special Features | Micro USB, CP2102 USB-serial, lithium battery management, ESD protection, sleep current ~800μA |
Detailed Description
The Heltec V2 was one of the most used boards for Meshtastic and other LoRa projects for years. The board has a proven track record and there is extensive documentation and community support available.
The main limitations compared to the V3 are the higher sleep current (~800μA vs <10μA) and the older SX1276 chip which is less sensitive than the SX1262. The V2 also uses Micro USB instead of USB-C.
If you already have a V2, you can continue to use it for MeshCore just fine. But for new purchases we recommend the Heltec V3 or V4 due to better specifications and longer support.
Buy Heltec V2
The Heltec V2 is phased out and no longer available new. Consider the Heltec V3 or Heltec V4 as an alternative.
View Heltec V3 on AliExpressMake sure to select the 868 MHz version for Europe
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