Qi wireless charging is a great reason to purchase the Sena VORTEX. Most riders don't even consider the idea of a charging pad. However, this little addition changes the daily routine of charging your phone. Now, instead of pulling out the intercom's cable each time the battery drains, simply remove it from the magnetic mount and set it on the Qi pad next to your phone, then go eat supper. The morning arrives and you're good to go. This convenience alone is well worth looking at.
Sena has a reputation based upon producing high-quality communications equipment. The VORTEX continues that tradition. However, this is a new model. First-generation products typically have very few customer reviews. Many of the current review samples were provided via free product programs. Therefore, although you'll receive fresh technology with limited long-term feedback, only a couple months, keep that in mind before making your decision. As of today, it has a 4.7-star rating among 7 reviews, so the initial buying group seems generally pleased but certainly not universally satisfied.
Specs and Build Quality
The VORTEX is ultra-light at approximately 1.3 ounces. In comparison to other intercoms currently available, this is extremely lightweight. It weighs almost nothing attached to the side of your helmet. Modern and aerodynamically designed, the casing slips cleanly through the air. Attached close to the bottom and tightly against your helmet, the VORTEX minimizes bulk compared to older designs.
Buyers appreciate the quality of construction of the VORTEX. They mention it directly. The housing appears sturdy. The buttons provide a strong tactile response. There is no rattle during bumpy road riding.
Waterproofing rated IPX7 is the defining specification for durability. Submerged under up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes, the VORTEX should withstand rain, storm conditions, and washes of water directed toward your helmet. If you ride throughout the entire year, or if you travel to work in inclement weather, this aspect is more significant than many of the specifications listed on the data sheet regarding performance.
Two mounting configurations are included in the packaging of the VORTEX. These include a traditional helmet-mounted configuration as well as a mounting plate that allows attachment to any flat surface. The notable design element is the magnetic mounting system. Sena refers to it as drop and go. Attach the device within proximity of the base, and it will securely attach itself with a strong magnetic hold. Several reviewers complimented it, and one reviewer stated he was amazed by how much quicker and simpler it was to use than previous clip-on attachments. It is. Daily comfort gained through reduced effort on every ride.
As part of the accessories package, custom interchangeable face plates are supplied. Each unit includes two face plates allowing users to easily switch the appearance of their VORTEX to match either their helmet or their mood. Available colors include silver, gray, and black. While this may appear to be a cosmetic item, it contributes significantly to keeping this first-generation product appearing fresh.
Inside your helmet reside HD speakers. The speakers used by Sena are capable of providing crystal-clear music and voice communication through your helmet.
Charging and Battery Life
This is why you would buy the VORTEX. Qi wireless charging. Most riders do not realize they spend a lot of time searching for a charger cord when their intercom battery dies. Not anymore. Your VORTEX charges on the exact same Qi wireless pad that you charge your smartphone. Just drop it onto the pad, walk away, done. That one attribute separates this from everything else.
In addition to being able to charge wirelessly, Sena also provides USB-C as a backup option when you are traveling. Standard port, standard cable. Fast-charging capability exists when you require it.
A word of caution: this is still a Bluetooth-based unit, not a mesh network unit. If your team uses Sena mesh-based comms systems, then this is not that. This is a Bluetooth-based intercom for you and a passenger or you and your smartphone. Make sure you understand that prior to purchasing.
Audio and Performance
Audio-wise, the HD speakers perform admirably. Early adopters report receiving excellent clarity on music, voice communications, and navigation prompts while traveling at various speeds.
Quick pairing is simple and pain-free. The VORTEX pairs with your smartphone via Bluetooth without issue. Riders state pairing successfully with their iPhone did not result in any issues with streaming music or voice directions. Reliable connectivity is exactly what you expect from a daily user.
The quick-pair button represents the primary method of controlling the functionality of the unit. According to Sena, a single press of the quick-pair button connects you instantly with any other Bluetooth-enabled comms unit. Press, connect, ride. No additional menu navigation required.
However, there is a caveat worth mentioning. Buyers report that the internal voice prompt is quite loud. Extremely loud. One reviewer stated loudly, in caps. Loud enough to be annoying for some riders. Annoying enough to be considered an issue for others. By far, it is reported by numerous early adopters as the most frequent criticism.
What Amazon Reviewers Are Saying
Because there are only seven reviews thus far, we cannot yet paint an entirely accurate picture of the early experiences of users with this product.
Positive comments center around core functions: clear audio from the HD speakers as praised by buyers, water resistance as touted as a real benefit, and build quality as described as superior. The magnetic mount receives praise repeatedly with riders commenting how much faster and easier it is than prior clip-style mounts.
Negative comments center specifically around one feature: voice prompts, specifically how loudly the internal voice speaks aloud. A 4-star reviewer appreciated the unit but was unable to move past how loud the internal voice spoke aloud. An audible correction, but loud enough for readers to take note.
Additionally, there is the honesty factor: some reviewers' comments are from Vine members or free-product program participants. We do not criticize those reviewers in any manner, many provide honest and informative commentary. However, given that the pool of actual paid customers using this product for an extended period of time is tiny, read what is written here, and evaluate whether or not the benefits of having Qi wireless charging and magnetic mounts outweigh taking a small chance on new product technology.
Review the detailed spec-sheet along with current reviews on Amazon before you buy this unit. Additional feedback will arrive as more people test this product.
Who Is This Intercom For?
Not all types of riders will find value in using this unit.
Those loyal to Sena will likely find themselves at ease using the VORTEX since it offers Sena polish, build quality, and clean app compatibility. If you are already running Sena products, this falls nicely in line with those products.
If you are a commuter or a solo traveler, either as a rider/passenger combination or as a rider/phone combo, then this product will suit your needs perfectly for music, calls, and navigation information.
It is not suitable for individuals desiring mesh network comms capabilities, only Bluetooth.
It is not suitable for budget-conscious riders. Sena charges premium pricing, around 189 dollars. You can check the current price and reviews on Amazon to see if it fits your budget.
Before deciding which type of intercom best meets your requirements, please refer to our intercoms hub and related buying guides articles to help compare your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Sena VORTEX waterproof?
Yes. It possesses an IPX7 rating, meaning it can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. Therefore, regardless of rain or thunderstorms, this unit is water resistant.
Does the VORTEX charge wirelessly?
Yes, it utilizes Qi wireless charging technology as its key function. Simply drop your VORTEX onto the same Qi wireless pad you utilize to charge your smartphone and it will begin charging immediately. USB-C is present as a backup option when you are away from home.
How much weight does the Sena VORTEX have?
Approximately 1.3 ounces. Amongst other existing intercom models available in the market today, this is extremely lightweight. The weight makes it virtually undetectable on top of your helmet while riding.
How does the magnetic mount work?
The unit attaches via magnetic forces. The unit contains a magnet and the base plate contains a magnet as well. Simply place the unit in close proximity to its base plate and it will quickly snap into position with magnetic attraction force. No clip attachments necessary. Reviewers say it greatly reduces installation time vs older clip-on methods.
Can I use the VORTEX with a passenger?
Yes, via Bluetooth intercom connection. Utilize quick pairing, a single button press, for rapid connection of your secondary Bluetooth-compatible unit or another Bluetooth-enabled headset.
Why do some reviews state that the internal voice prompt on this device was too loud?
Many reviewers indicate that the internal voice prompt was very loud, extremely loud. Many found it to be excessively loud to be annoying and unacceptable as such, while others merely mentioned it was too loud and annoying. Both opinions clearly represent excessive noise levels beyond normal expectation levels. It is the most commonly cited criticism amongst early reviewers.