If you want the highest level of tech in your helmet comms then a mesh intercom is the way forward.
Where a Bluetooth system is fine for communication with a passenger or a very small group (check our guide here), mesh systems are superior for larger groups.
This is where we also find a more advanced level of technology - larger, clearer speakers, more advanced voice control functionality and improved methods of connecting to your helmet.
So the appeal of mesh units like this extends beyond those who want to connect up large groups of riders. Even those who only ever ride alone will feel the benefit, even though they're not making full use of the feature set.
Here are the five best options, using Sportsbikeshop customer feedback as our guide…
Cardo Packtalk Pro Mesh Intercom - Single
Customer rating:
The range-topping Packtalk Pro unit took its time to collect a strong haul of customer reviews, but its high level of tech has finally started to shine through. The Packtalk Pro has all the features of the massively popular Edge unit, but adds in a battery-saving auto on-off function, an accident detection feature and also comes with Cardo's larger 45mm speakers supplied. The first 21 customer reviewers have all awarded five-star ratings, and there isn't even a hint of criticism for the unit's performance.
Cardo Packtalk Edge Mesh Intercom
Customer rating:
Cardo’s mesh-equipped Packtalk Edge is perhaps the perfect balance of tech and usability. The control module secures into its mounting cradle with a slick magnetic attachment, the battery can be charged as you ride and there’s a three-year warranty. Audio quality when connected to another Packtalk Edge is class-leading and an average rating of 4.79 from the first 202 reviews illustrates its popularity. Owners are full of praise for the battery life, the voice command function and the way it can connect to other brands of intercom if you switch from mesh to Bluetooth mode.
SENA 60S Bluetooth Intercom
Customer rating:
All sorts of bells and whistles are included with Sena's range-topping Mesh intercom, but at heart it is just a top-quality communicator. Harmon Kardon speakers bring excellent audio clarity, a magnetic mount makes it easier to remove the unit for charging, and the groundbreaking Sena Wave app allows communication via a phone app to extend beyond the physical limitations of bike-to-bike connections. Of the first 13 customer reviews, 12 came with five-star ratings. The only dropped star was down to frustration with the strength of Sena's bike-to-bike connection.
Cardo Packtalk Neo Mesh Intercom
Customer rating:
Cardo’s Packtalk Neo runs essentially the same engine as the Packtalk Edge, but with some luxury features removed. The Edge's powered magnetic cradle is replaced by a click-in-place version that also leaves the unit needing plugging in to connect the mic and speakers. The unit can only be charged when it’s switched off and there’s a two-year warranty rather than the Edge’s three-year coverage. The losses are compensated by a saving of around 20%. Owners are generally fulsome in their praise, saying the clarity and ease of use are good, and the voice command feature is particularly helpful. Of the first 52 customers to leave a review, 43 gave a perfect five-star rating.
SENA 50S Bluetooth Headset & Intercom
Customer rating:
Sena's 50 series has been their most advanced for the past few years, and this is the version with the jog dial for controls. That sets it apart from the 50R, which has buttons instead, and the 50C, which has a built-in action camera. An average customer approval rating of 4.75 from 33 reviews is decent and customers love the sound quality from the 40mm Harmon Kardon speakers, plus the battery life, which is claimed at up to 16 hours. The ability to update the firmware without plugging the unit into a computer is also seen as a positive. It's not universal praise - the lack of a waterproof rating annoys some, as does the relative bulk of the unit.