The Cardo PACKTALK Outdoor uses the same core communications platform as the motorcycle PACKTALK models, but it adds mount versatility for use across various helmet types. A glue plate and V-strap clip are provided for installing into winter and full-face helmets, and a 3.5mm to USB-C adapter lets you use wired headsets when a helmet is not being worn. The device will also pair via Bluetooth with Apple AirPods and other wireless headsets, something many motorcycle-specific intercoms cannot do. You can compare it against other intercoms on our comparison table.
Connection specs
The intercom allows for connections of up to 15 individuals over a maximum distance of approximately 1km (about 0.6 miles). Unlike intercoms that rely on cell service to facilitate connectivity, this device operates on direct Bluetooth, so it can function in remote locations with no cellular coverage. Because the PACKTALK Outdoor uses a point-to-point Bluetooth connection rather than mesh, the range depends on line-of-sight visibility between riders. The 1km range works well for small group rides where members remain visually close together, but larger groups operating over greater distances may experience drop-outs in the intercom connection.
Voice control and operation
Cardo's Natural Voice Operation is one of the better hands-free systems currently available. All you need to do is say "Hey Cardo" and give it a command, start the intercom, play music, initiate a call, adjust volume. The system performs well under normal riding conditions, including high winds and road noise. Very heavy crosswinds at highway speed may occasionally result in voice recognition errors. Lower-speed riding, skiing, and cycling often involve lighter, more consistent winds, so the voice control tends to perform better in those situations.
Build quality and water resistance
This unit carries an IP67 rating and is completely dust-proof. It can also withstand immersion in up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes, which provides ample protection against inclement weather and excessive moisture. Cardo designs its products with durability in mind, and the PACKTALK line has a reputation for holding up across numerous seasons of use. The button layout is large enough for glove operation, which becomes especially important when adjusting volume with ski gloves.
Talk time and battery life
The PACKTALK line typically offers 13 to 15 hours of talk time per charge, providing ample battery life for an entire day of riding, skiing, or cycling. Cardo does not publish a specific talk-time figure for the Outdoor model as part of its listed specifications, but those numbers represent reasonable expectations for daily use based on the rest of the line.
Dual mount system
The standard PACKTALK models are designed with motorcycle applications in mind and are limited to certain mounting configurations. The PACKTALK Outdoor is uniquely positioned to accommodate different helmet styles. The glue plate is intended for use with helmets used strictly for one type of sport, while the V-strap clip enables easy transferability between different helmets, making it ideal for people who engage in multiple sports such as weekend skiing and motorcycle riding. An example would be switching a single unit between a ski helmet and a motorcycle helmet during the week. With two clips installed on their respective helmets, swapping the intercom from one helmet to another takes mere seconds, rather than potentially damaging either helmet by removing an adhesive mount every time.
The 3.5mm to USB-C adapter is a nice feature that expands the potential uses of the PACKTALK beyond helmeted activities. Connected directly to earbuds or wired headsets, it lets users communicate with others without ever putting on a helmet. This level of flexibility is uncommon for a product that is marketed primarily as a helmet-mounted communications device.
What reviewers say
The PACKTALK Outdoor has a total of 262 reviews on Amazon with an overall customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Users tend to agree that the audio quality is excellent, along with the reliability of maintaining an active connection between up to 15 users. Many reviewers comment positively about using Cardo's natural voice operation to keep their hands free while engaging in various sporting activities.
Some customers express concerns about the pricing, particularly compared to similarly performing motorcycle-only intercom devices. A handful of reviewers indicate difficulty pairing the PACKTALK Outdoor with non-Cardo devices, saying it took them some time to initially configure settings correctly. Once configured properly, reviewers report a consistent stable connection throughout extended periods of use.
Who should buy this intercom
If you participate in sporting activities where you wear helmets, motorcycling, skiing, cycling, and the like, and you want to use a single communications device across multiple activities, the Cardo PACKTALK Outdoor is the ideal choice. Instead of purchasing individual systems for each sport, a single PACKTALK Outdoor covers both motorcycling and skiing or cycling.
If you only motorcycle and do not anticipate using your communications device while skiing or cycling, you may want to consider the standard PACKTALK or FREECOM lines from Cardo. They offer virtually identical communications capabilities at different price points. If your primary concern is affordability, brands like Fodsports and LEXIN offer competitive intercoms at significantly reduced cost, though lacking comparable build quality and voice control sophistication. See our intercom comparison table for more options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many riders can the PACKTALK Outdoor connect?
Up to 15 riders at a maximum distance of 1km (about 0.6 miles). Because PACKTALK Outdoor uses a point-to-point Bluetooth connection rather than mesh, the distance is limited by line-of-sight visibility between users.
Is the PACKTALK Outdoor waterproof?
It carries an IP67 rating, meaning it is fully dustproof and submersible up to 1 meter deep for up to 30 minutes. It will handle rain, snow, and mud without issue, but is not designed for prolonged immersion in water.
Can I use it with AirPods or other wireless earbuds?
Yes, it pairs with AirPods or other wireless earbuds using Bluetooth. A 3.5mm to USB-C adapter is also included, allowing for wired headphones or headsets when not using a helmet.
Does the voice control work well?
Cardo's Natural Voice Operation is among the better systems available. It handles basic commands reliably in moderate wind conditions. Heavy crosswinds at highway speed can occasionally cause issues, but for most riding and skiing situations it works well.
How long does the battery last?
PACKTALK units generally deliver 13 to 15 hours of talk time, which covers a full day of riding, skiing, or cycling without needing to recharge.
Is the PACKTALK Outdoor compatible with other Cardo models?
Yes, it is compatible with other Cardo units for intercom communication. It also supports universal Bluetooth pairing with non-Cardo devices, though cross-brand pairing can sometimes take more effort to set up.
How does the PACKTALK Outdoor compare to the standard PACKTALK for motorcycles?
The Outdoor version shares the same communication core but adds versatile mounting options (glue plate plus V-strap clip) and accessories like the USB-C audio adapter for helmet-less use. If you only motorcycle and never ski or cycle, the standard PACKTALK may be a better fit since it focuses entirely on motorcycle-specific features and mounting.