[DOC] Choosing a Node
Overview
Looking to get started but not sure what device to use? Here is a simplified list to help you decide. If you are looking for a more detailed comparison with more hardware models, head over to [DOC] Boards to compare.
As a general rule of thumb if the node is going to be battery or solar powered, you will want to prefer a board that uses the nRF52840 platform. This platform is incredibly power efficient (lasting days on battery where others last hours) and there aren't any significant consequential trade-offs to using it over something like ESP32.
Companion (BLE or USB)
If the node is going to be running the BLE or USB companion firmware, the below boards are popular and work well.
| Boards |
||||||
| Heltec V3 | Seeed Tracker L1 Pro | Lilygo T-Echo | Seeed T1000-E | Rak WisMesh Tag | ||
| Use Case | Good option for a low cost mains powered, fixed location companion. | Portable device with external antenna for extended range. | Portable device with external antenna for extended range. | Credit card sized device that fits easily in your pocket. IP65 rating. | Credit card sized device that fits easily in your pocket. Typically seen as a better alternative to the T1000-E. IP66 rating. | |
| Platform | ESP32 | nRF52840 | nRF52840 | nRF52840 | nRF52840 | |
| Battery | None (1.25 JST connector) | 2000 mAh | 850 mAh | 700 mAh | 1000 mAh | |
| Display | None | 1.3" OLED (E-ink available) | 1.54" E-ink | None | None | |
| GPS | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Sensors | None | External (Via Grove connector) | Optional (internal BME280 environmental) | Ambient light, 3-Axis Accelerometer, Temperature | 3-Axis Accelerometer | |
| Antenna | External (u.FL) | External (RP-SMA) | External (SMA) | Internal | Internal | |
| Vendor Link | Link | Link | Link | Link | Link | |