Mesh network without smartphone
MeshCore works with or without smartphone. Choose standalone devices with built-in display and keyboard – perfect for those without smartphones.
Emergency communication must be accessible to everyone
Most mesh network solutions require a smartphone. You connect a small LoRa radio device via Bluetooth to your phone and send messages via an app. That works fine – but what if you don't have a smartphone? Or if your smartphone is broken, dead, or you consciously don't want to depend on a phone?
Good news: MeshCore works without smartphone. There are standalone devices with built-in screen and keyboard. You don't need anything else – the device is completely self-contained. Ideal for emergency communication in the Netherlands, for elderly people without smartphones, or for those who simply prefer not to depend on a phone.
Why a mesh network without smartphone?
There are several reasons why people in the Netherlands choose standalone mesh devices:
No smartphone needed
Not everyone has a smartphone. Especially elderly people or those who consciously don't want a smartphone can still participate in the network.
Independence
You're not dependent on your phone, phone battery, or whether your phone still works. The mesh device works completely independently.
Longer battery life
Smartphones drain quickly. Standalone mesh devices are optimized for low power consumption and last days to weeks on one battery.
Simpler to use
No apps to install, no Bluetooth pairing, no complicated settings. The device works right out of the box.
More robust
Purpose-built mesh devices are often sturdier, waterproof and better suited to harsh conditions than a smartphone.
Privacy and focus
A mesh device has no other apps, tracking or distractions. It does one thing well: communicate via the mesh network.
Standalone mesh devices with built-in display
There are different types of standalone mesh devices without smartphone:
1. LoRa devices with OLED display
These are the most compact standalone devices. They have a small OLED screen where you can read messages. Sending messages usually works via preset shortcodes or by connecting the device to a computer for configuration.
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Affordable (from €50)
- ✗ Limited input options (no full keyboard)
2. LoRa devices with e-ink display
These devices have a larger e-ink screen (like an e-reader). The screen is highly readable in sunlight and consumes almost no power. Some models have a rudimentary keyboard or touchscreen for input.
- ✓ Excellent readable display
- ✓ Extremely low power consumption
- ✗ Often more expensive (€150-€300)
3. LoRa messengers with full keyboard (RECOMMENDED)
These are special messenger devices built for mesh communication. They have a physical QWERTY keyboard and display, similar to old BlackBerry phones. You can simply type and send messages without a smartphone. These are the most complete standalone solutions.
- ✓ Fully independent (no phone needed)
- ✓ Physical keyboard for easy typing
- ✓ User-friendly – anyone can learn it
Benefits of mesh network without smartphone
Accessible to everyone
Even people without smartphones can participate in the Netherlands. Ideal for elderly, children, or people who consciously don't have smartphones.
Extremely long battery life
Standalone devices are optimized for low power consumption. Battery lasts weeks – perfect for prolonged emergency situations.
Robust and reliable
Built for harsh conditions. Often waterproof, shockproof and designed to go in an emergency kit.
No smartphone dependency
If your smartphone is dead, broken, or you don't have it with you – the mesh device always works independently.
One purpose: communicate
No distractions, apps or notifications. The device does what it's meant for – reliable emergency communication.
Privacy guaranteed
No tracking, no apps collecting your data. Only direct communication via the mesh network.
Who is a standalone mesh device ideal for?
A mesh network without smartphone is perfect in these situations in the Netherlands:
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1.
Elderly: People without smartphones who still want to participate in emergency communication in the Netherlands
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2.
Emergency kits: As backup in your bug-out-bag, emergency kit or car. Always works, even when your phone doesn't
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3.
Outdoor and camping: Hikers, campers and adventurers who don't want to depend on a smartphone
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4.
Children: Give children a mesh device for school or events. Simple and safe communication without smartphone
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5.
Businesses and organizations: Ensure employees can communicate without personal phones. Ideal for events, security and emergency services
How to set up a standalone mesh device?
Setting up a standalone mesh device is simple:
Step 1: Choose the right device
Determine which type of standalone device suits you. Do you want a simple OLED display, e-ink screen, or full keyboard? See our devices page for recommendations.
Step 2: Install firmware
Some devices come with pre-installed MeshCore firmware. If not, you can easily install the firmware via USB and a computer. The community is happy to help.
Step 3: Configure basic settings
Set your username, choose the right region (EU868 for Europe), and configure your channels. This can often be done via the device itself, or once via USB.
Step 4: Test the network
Send a test message to other users in the Netherlands nearby. Check if messages arrive and that you're within range of the network. Ready to use.
Frequently asked questions
Does MeshCore really work completely without smartphone?
Yes, absolutely. There are standalone mesh devices with built-in display and keyboard. You don't need a smartphone, app or computer to communicate via the mesh network in the Netherlands.
Are standalone devices more expensive than smartphone-connected devices?
It depends on the model. Basic OLED devices cost from €50, just like smartphone-connected devices. Devices with keyboard or e-ink display are more expensive (€150-€300).
Can I type messages on a standalone device?
Yes, if you choose a device with keyboard or touchscreen. Devices with only a display are more suitable for receiving and sending preset messages.
How long does the battery last on a standalone mesh device?
Standalone devices are optimized for low power consumption. Depending on usage, the battery lasts days to weeks. Much longer than a smartphone.
Can I combine a standalone device with a smartphone-connected device?
Yes! All MeshCore devices communicate with each other in the Netherlands, regardless of whether they're standalone or connected to a smartphone. You can use both types in one network.
Is a standalone device harder to set up?
No, often easier. No app to install, no Bluetooth pairing. Some devices work right out of the box. Basic configuration can be done via the device itself or once via USB.
Emergency communication for everyone – with or without smartphone
MeshCore mesh network is accessible to everyone in the Netherlands. Whether you have a smartphone or not, there are standalone devices that work completely independently. Reliable emergency communication should not be limited to smartphone users.
Discover which standalone mesh device suits you and become part of the growing network in the Netherlands.