Mesh intercom systems usually mean Sena and/or Cardo and generally cost a small fortune. The LEXIN MeshCom shakes this up, for about the price of a meal for two you get a mesh network that officially supports 24 riders. That’s the most affordable actual mesh option on the market today. At least check it against other mesh intercoms listed in our intercom comparison table. Check current pricing on Amazon.
Mesh 3.0 Communication
MeshCom uses LEXIN's Mesh 3.0 technology. Mesh 3.0 creates a self-repairing mesh network that you simply plug in and use. The main number is 24 riders. But, realistically, very few riders will reach that number. What is important is that you have room to expand your team, whether that is due to an additional charity ride, or when you decide to enter another track day and you don't have to worry about adding additional riders because of caps. Having the ability to add riders is actually quite valuable.
Audio Multitasking
Audio multitasking was previously an expensive feature offered by only high-end models. MeshCom now allows you to have multiple channels running simultaneously (GPS, take a phone call, listen to music), while still being able to communicate via the intercom channel. No longer will you be required to stop listening to your music in order to speak to your fellow riders. Having audio multitasking is a major improvement over previous models.
Noise Cancellation and Speakers
LEXIN incorporated CVC conversational voice clarity along with DSP noise suppression for a low-cost solution to eliminate wind noise issues commonly associated with inexpensive intercoms at higher speeds. Users regularly comment that they were surprised at how little of an impact wind noise had when using the MeshCom. The audio quality of the unit is suitable for casual conversations and music playback. While the quality is not going to meet audiophile standards, it works well enough for casual use and conversation purposes.
Battery and Build
A 1,100 mAh power source provides ample power to last all day, according to LEXIN. As stated earlier, they do not provide a specific hour-long estimate of how much time the unit will operate, but users indicate that they were able to go for extended periods of time using the unit for intercom communications and music playback without experiencing battery drain. Additionally, the unit has been rated IP67 compliant which gives it total dust and water resistance. So, in the event of inclement weather, you won't need to worry about damage.
The temperature operating range of the unit extends from -10°C to 55°C which covers virtually all of the conditions under which you'll ride. Also included in the build are features such as built-in FM radio for solo rides when you wish to conserve cell phone battery life by streaming music.
Compatibility with different types of helmet configurations is another area where the MeshCom excels. LEXIN includes mounting hardware for full-face, modular and open-face helmets along with corresponding microphone choices so regardless of which type of helmet you choose, you're not limited to using only one particular helmet model.
Mesh Networking for Group Rides
Older Bluetooth-based intercom units require pairing each rider individually prior to a ride and upon loss of signal (i.e., someone leaves the riding area) requires re-pairing of the entire group. The mesh network eliminates these headaches entirely. All riders merely turn on their unit and then automatically join the mesh. If a member of the group stops at a gas station or takes off early and loses contact with the rest of the group (and thus loses connection with the network) they will immediately re-join the mesh when they regain contact with the remaining members of the group.
For many riding clubs or groups of friends who frequently go on group rides, this is a huge benefit. In addition to providing convenient access to joining and leaving a mesh network, the fact that it supports up to 24 riders means you will never have to worry about reaching the maximum number of riders allowed per-unit at larger events.
What Reviewers Say
The MeshCom currently has a 4-star average based on 233 reviews. Based on these reviews, it appears that it meets expectations given its pricing point with some minor drawbacks.
Reviewers rave about how well the mesh networking functions as intended and how nice it is to have audio multitasking capabilities. Many reviewers that purchased several units for their respective riding groups specifically mentioned the clear communication heard on their units via the intercom function and how simple it was to set up the mesh.
On the flip side, reviewers also noted that there were some problems with drop-out connections at long ranges or in heavily populated RF environments. Some reviewers reported that voice prompts were too loud and annoying. Finally, although there are apps available for both Android and iOS platforms, they appear to be somewhat less developed compared to those provided by Sena (SmartConnect) or Cardo (Connect Pro). The reviewer consensus appears to be that LEXIN delivers on specifications and pricing but you are buying a budget unit, not a Sena killer.
Who Should Buy This Intercom
The LEXIN MeshCom is designed for budget-conscious riders looking for an affordable way to achieve true mesh networking without breaking the bank. In terms of dollars spent for units needed for a group of four riders, it is difficult to dispute this equation: purchasing four MeshCom units will cost approximately the same as purchasing one Sena 50S. Therefore, for those riders on a tight budget, this ratio is likely to be the defining factor.
For riders who prioritize absolute reliability and top-tier audio, the Sena 50S and Cardo PACKTALK are the safer choices. And if you do not need mesh at all, LEXIN's own B4FM is an even more affordable option. See the full comparison table for more options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my LEXIN MeshCom truly support up to 24 riders?
While LEXIN claims their Mesh 3.0 technology will support up to 24 riders theoretically, practically speaking very few groups will have more than 2-5 riders in attendance. However, since the MeshCom has sufficient bandwidth, you should not have to worry about exhausting your available space if you need to increase your size significantly at an event.
How does audio multitasking work?
When you activate audio multitasking, the MeshCom combines intercom audio with media audio. This enables you to listen to music, GPS, or calls while maintaining continuous communication on your intercom channel, so you no longer need to stop one activity to engage in another.
Are my LEXIN MeshCom units waterproof?
Yes. Your MeshCom units carry an IP67 rating, fully resistant to water and dust.
How does it stack up against the Sena 50S?
The MeshCom is competitive with the Sena 50S on mesh connectivity at roughly a third of the price. The differences lie in slightly lower audio quality and somewhat less effective noise suppression, plus occasional disconnections that budget buyers experience more than premium ones.
Is there an FM radio included?
Yes. The MeshCom comes with a built-in FM radio, so you can enjoy background audio on solo rides without draining your phone battery streaming music.
Which helmets is it compatible with?
The mount system works with full-face, modular, and open-face helmets, with different microphones available for each type.
Can I take a phone call while on the intercom?
Yes. Audio multitasking lets GPS, media, and calls run at the same time as your mesh channel, so you can answer a call while still talking to your riding group.
For more options, check the more intercom reviews.
Read more about LEXIN intercoms at the official product page.