Sena is the big name when it comes to motorcycle communications and the SMH5 is their base model Bluetooth headset. More than 1,700 Amazon customers have given it an average of 4.4 stars. It's pretty hard to fight against that type of reputation.
Sena's SMH5 Bluetooth intercom doesn't do anything fancy. There is no mesh networking, no configuring apps. It simply has Bluetooth 5.1, a jog dial, and a single button. So if all you want to do is take calls, hear your GPS giving you directions, or chat with a passenger, the SMH5 is going to do what you want for a price far lower than many premium headsets.
Specifications and Build Quality
SMH5 connects via Bluetooth 5.1 which should provide sufficient technology for an entry level Bluetooth headset. Connecting is fast and the connectivity is strong once connected within range. You're provided with a 2-rider intercom capability which allows either rider-to-passenger or rider-to-rider voice communication.
You'll find the maximum range of the SMH5 is approximately 900 meters in free space. When you factor in barriers between riders, the actual range may be reduced. However, this should still meet your needs for two-up riding or if you're following a friend on the highway.
Battery life is approximately 10 hours and this will cover virtually any full-day ride you plan to take. Standby time is significantly longer, so even if you choose to leave it powered on between rides, the battery shouldn't drain quickly.
Control of volume and function are achieved by Sena's familiar jog dial with a center-mounted button. Both work well with gloves on. The speaker portion mounts to the top of the helmet shell, while both speakers fit inside nearly all helmet pockets.
Audio and Mic Performance
Sena's advanced noise cancellation technology is built into the SMH5. It reduces wind and background motor noises during intercom conversations. While this technology isn't anywhere near as advanced as the noise cancelling found on high-end models such as the 50S or 60S, it performs admirably well for an entry-level headset.
Stereo audio for music and GPS prompts is delivered clearly by the speakers. Bass response is acceptable, not overly emphasized. Highway speed will require earplugs and the SMH5 provides sufficient volume to allow you to easily hear clearly above the earplugs.
Two microphones come with the SMH5. One is mounted on a boom which works great for full face helmets and the second is a cable-connected microphone that works better for open-face or three-quarter helmets.
What Amazon Buyers Have Said About Their Experience
Since more than 1,770 Amazon customers have reviewed this product averaging 4.4 stars, there are obviously a lot of comments to go over. Virtually all buyers praised the SMH5 for how easy it was to use and how well it performed at a relatively affordable cost. Many reviewers also complimented the jog dial for being very user-friendly and easy to use even when wearing gloves.
Many common praises for the SMH5 were that connecting devices was easy, had a long-lasting battery, and produced excellent quality audio for its cost. Several reviewers noted that they would have liked the volume to be turned up higher at highway speeds. The problem of volume at highway speeds seems to be something virtually everyone experiences using a helmet intercom regardless of cost.
Only several reviewers mentioned that the intercom range seemed to be shorter than they expected when traveling through hills or around obstacles. Again, this is typical for any Bluetooth intercom regardless of cost. Only a small number of reviewers reported difficulty with installing the mounting bracket on certain types of helmets.
Overwhelmingly, customer reviews are extremely positive for an entry-level headset. The 4.4 star rating from more than 1,700 reviewers is very difficult to ignore.
Who Should Buy This Intercom?
If you just need a dependable Bluetooth headset that won't break the bank then the SMH5 is likely going to be the best value in Sena's line. Also, if you ride with a regular buddy or passengers and don't need anything beyond simple comms then the SMH5 is probably going to be your best option.
Additionally, if you're a commuter who wants GPS directions in your helmet along with music streaming then the SMH5 is another solid option. Since it supports Universal Intercom, you can connect with other brands that support the standard, so you won't be limited to only communicating with other Sena products.
Where it falls short: the SMH5 is only a 2-rider system, so if you need to communicate with a larger group (4 to 10), you'll want to consider a mesh system. Since it's based solely on Bluetooth, obstacles between riders will cut back on your usable range. Finally, because it's not a mesh system, it won't automatically reconnect like a mesh system does.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the battery last?
Sena rates the SMH5 at 10 hours of talk time. In real-world riding with a mix of intercom calls and music streaming, most users report 8 to 10 hours. Charging takes about 2.5 hours from empty. The standby time lasts for days, so you can leave it on the helmet between rides.
Can I listen to music and use the intercom at the same time?
Yes, the SMH5 supports audio multitasking. Music pauses automatically when an intercom call comes in and resumes when the call ends. You can also listen to GPS prompts over music. This works well in practice and is one of the features buyers mention most often.
Does it work with any helmet?
The SMH5 uses a standard clamp mount that fits most full-face, modular, and 3/4 helmets. Speakers fit into the ear pockets of most helmet liners. Installation takes about 10 to 15 minutes and the included manual is straightforward. Some buyers mention the bracket can be tight on certain helmet shells.
Can I pair it with other brands?
The SMH5 supports Universal Intercom, which allows pairing with other brands that also support the standard. This includes many Cardo, FreedConn, and other systems. Pairing with Sena-native devices is naturally more seamless.
Is it waterproof?
The SMH5 is weather-resistant but not fully waterproof. It can handle rain and splashes, but it's not rated for submersion. Store it in a dry place and avoid pressure washing the helmet with the unit attached. Most riders find the weather resistance adequate for normal riding conditions.
Does it come as a dual pack?
The SMH5 is typically sold as a single unit. You buy two units for rider-passenger communication. At the current selling price, two units still cost less than most mid-range dual packs, making it a budget-friendly way to get two-rider comms.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly Bluetooth headset from a brand you can trust, the Sena SMH5 is a proven choice. Compare it with other motorcycle intercoms in our comparison table to see how it stacks up. Also check our blog for more intercom guides and reviews.