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ThinkNode M5 Review: Is This The Ultimate Meshtastic Network Device for Outdoor Adventurers & Preppers?
- UKSN
- 24 minutes ago
- 10 min read
When most people hear walkie-talkie, they think of crackly voices, push-to-talk buttons, and short-range chatter. The Elecrow ThinkNode M5 looks like it could fit into that category, but it’s something very different - and arguably far more useful.
Instead of transmitting voice, this compact handheld device is built to keep you connected off-grid. Using Meshtastic firmware, it sends encrypted messages and GPS locations over a long-range, low-power mesh network, letting you stay in touch even where mobile signal, Wi-Fi, or the internet cannot reach.
Unlike hobbyist boards such as the Heltec V3 which requires a case, battery, extra modules (such as GPS), and a little soldering to unlock full performance, the ThinkNode M5 is a finished product. It comes ready to go, with no extra purchases needed. Switch it on, update the firmware, pair it with your phone… and in theory, it just works. But does it live up to that promise?
Think Node M5 Pros and Cons at a Glance
✅ Pros
Ready-to-use, finished product- no cases or extra modules required
Encrypted messaging for privacy
Seamless integration with Meshtastic and UKSN Project LoRa
Built-in GPS for location sharing without mobile signal
Excellent battery life and low power consumption
Clear, daylight-readable e-ink display
External replaceable antenna for strong, stable range
❌ Cons
No built-in pocket clip
Lacks a rugged design (or even an IP rating)
E-ink display updates slower than traditional screens
Clunky, but nostalgic menu system reminiscent of old mobile phones
MacOS requires additional drivers (which didn't work for us)
UKSN Rating: ★★★ (3/5)
What Is the ThinkNode M5?
Despite sometimes being called a “walkie-talkie,” the ThinkNode M5 is not a voice radio. It cannot transmit or receive voice. Instead, it is a handheld LoRa transceiver that utilises Meshtastic.
The ThinkNode range is a series of handheld and modular LoRa devices, currently spanning multiple models from ThinkNode M1 through to ThinkNode M6. Each model targets slightly different use cases, screen types, power options, and feature sets, but all are built around the same core idea: compact, low-power devices designed to support long-range, off-grid mesh communication. The M5 sits firmly in that family as a fully enclosed, ready-to-use handheld unit, combining screen, battery, GPS, and external antenna support in a single portable device.
Key functions include:
Encrypted text based messaging
GPS location sharing
Mesh networking, where messages hop automatically between nodes
Offline communication, even where mobile coverage is zero
With mesh networking, messages can be relayed via other devices to reach nodes outside direct range. The more nodes in your network, the more robust and extensive it becomes, making devices like the ThinkNode M5 ideal for group activities, emergency communications, and Project LoRa deployments.
What is Included in the ThinkNode M5 Box?
The ThinkNode M5 comes as a ready-to-use kit with everything you need to get started. Inside the package, you’ll find:
ThinkNode M5
External LoRa antenna
USB-A to USB-C charging/data cable
Basic user manual
No additional modules, cases, or parts are technically required (although a clip would have been nice, but will touch on this later), making it ideal for beginners or anyone who wants a fully functional node without fuss.
What is LoRa and Mesh Networking?
LoRa stands for Long Range. It’s a radio technology built to transmit small data packets over long distances while consuming very little power - ideal for outdoor, rural or remote environments.
For UKSN members and Project LoRa users, the M5’s use of EU 868 MHz is particularly important. This frequency allows for higher transmit power (up to 500mW 27dBm ERP) and usually experiences less interference than alternative 433Mhz (15mW 10-12 dBm ERP) option, making communications more reliable across outdoor camps, hikes, and remote activities in the UK.
Mesh networking adds another layer of capability. Every device can act as both a sender and a relay, so messages are automatically routed across available devices. This results in:
Extended network range as more devices join
Resilience, since no single device is critical
Group-wide coverage even in challenging terrain
Encrypted, private messaging
For UKSN events, camps, and expeditions, this means groups can maintain reliable communications even in the middle of the countryside with no mobile signal.
Why Meshtastic and Project LoRa Are Perfect for Preppers
For preppers and anyone focused on emergency readiness, reliable communication off the grid is essential. That’s exactly where Meshtastic devices like the ThinkNode M5 shine, especially when used in conjunction with project LoRa.
Unlike standard phones or radios that depend on mobile networks, the M5 operates on a low-power LoRa mesh network, which allows you to:
Stay connected in remote locations where there is no mobile coverage or traditional infrastructure
Share GPS locations with your group, making navigation, coordination, situational awareness, and safety easier than ever
Send encrypted text messages, so sensitive communications remain private
Build resilient decentralised networks, as messages hop between nodes automatically - if one device fails, the network adapts
First Impressions and Build Quality
The ThinkNode M5 feels compact, relatively sturdy, and highly portable, with actual physical buttons.
Its 1.54-inch e-ink display is excellent in bright daylight and draws very little power, although it refreshes slightly slower than a typical backlit screen.
The external antenna improves signal stability and can even be replaced if you want to experiment with different setups. Just ensure you buy a female SMA antenna if swapping it out.
Unlike bare LoRa boards, this device is a finished, out-of-the-box solution. No additional case, soldering, or module installation is required, making it ideal for beginners or anyone who just wants a reliable, ready-to-use node.
There’s a surprisingly nostalgic touch to the M5. When powered on, it plays a short electronic tune that feels straight out of an old handheld games console, followed by the backlight springing to life and the e-ink display flickering as it refreshes. Even navigating the menus evokes memories of classic mobile phones - the slightly clunky interface has a certain charm of its own. Thankfully, for anyone who didn’t grow up with a Nokia 3310 in their hands (we are showing our age now), almost everything can be managed through the Meshtastic app, so in day-to-day use you rarely need to interact with the device directly. It’s a little nostalgic, a little quirky, and a lot of fun to see a modern outdoor gadget with such personality.
Setup and Connectivity
Getting started with the ThinkNode M5 is straightforward (if you own a PC). Simply charge the node using the included USB C cable, screw on the antenna, and update the firmware (using the web flasher) to ensure you have the latest features and the most stable performance. Once that is complete, power it on and pair it with the Meshtastic app via Bluetooth.
From there, you can use the app to:
Send and receive encrypted messages
Share GPS locations
Monitor network status and connected nodes
Customise settings
Even basic setup is simple, but more technical users can explore advanced options such as creating encrypted channels or integrating with ATAK (Android Team Awareness Kit) for improved situational awareness.
Important Flashing Warning: Do Not Install InkHUD
When flashing the ThinkNode M5 with Meshtastic, do not select the InkHUD option. During testing, installing InkHUD caused the device to appear bricked, leaving it unresponsive and unusable.
If this happens, the device can be recovered, but only by reflashing the firmware again with InkHUD disabled. Once reflashed without InkHUD selected, normal functionality returns.
Mac Compatibility Issues
If you’re a Apple Mac user, the experience may not be quite so smooth. During testing, I was unable to get the ThinkNode M5 into DFU mode to flash the latest firmware on macOS. After contacting support, I was provided with a driver link, but macOS repeatedly rejected it and threw up various errors - even after enabling 'Allow Applications From App Store & Known Developers'.
In the end, I had to abandon the Mac entirely and use a Windows PC, which worked without issue. So a word of caution: if you only have access to a Mac, this device may prove frustrating to set up. While this may improve in the future with better driver support, at the time of writing, a PC makes the process significantly easier - just remember to avoid InkHUD. Regardless of this inconvenience, we do want to point out that the M5 is actually useable out of the box without flashing, so its not the end of the world. You will however just need to find a computer at some point to do any firmware updates.
Unable to Get the ThinkNodeM5 into DFU Mode and Install the Latest Meshtastic Firmware?
If you are unable to flash the Latest Meshtastic firmware to Thinknode M5, or cannot get it into DFU mode, these are the steps shared by Elecrow support. Hopefully someone finds the information useful.
Ensure the device is turned on (super easy mistake to make).
Double-click the "Reset" button on the base of the device to enter DFU mode and then try flashing the firmware again.
Other operating systems such macOS may need additional drivers. For Mac install the following driver:
Failing this, use a PC...
If this is your first Meshtastic device and you’re interested in getting started, we’ll be covering a full step-by-step setup guide in a future UKSN article.
Real-World Performance
LoRa Range and Mesh Functionality
Thanks to its SX1262 LoRa transceiver and external antenna, the Think Node M5 offers impressive long-range communication without relying on mobile signal, Wi-Fi, or the internet. In fact, i'm sure you will be happy to read the M5 can cover considerable distances depending on terrain:
Open, line-of-sight environments can reach 6–9 miles, with some reports up to 12 miles under ideal conditions.
Woodland or semi-urban areas with trees, buildings, or gentle hills typically achieve 1–3 miles reliably.
Dense forests, hilly valleys, or built-up areas may reduce range to around 0.6–1.2 miles, but this is where mesh networking really comes into its own.
With Meshtastic, messages can hop between multiple nodes, effectively extending coverage far beyond a single point-to-point link. The theoretical maximum distance is the single-hop range multiplied by the number of nodes in the chain. For example, in ideal open conditions:
2 hops → ~12–18 miles
3 hops → ~18–27 miles
5 hops → ~30–45 miles
In real-world outdoor adventures, obstacles and terrain reduce this somewhat, but even a small network of 2–3 strategically placed nodes can dramatically expand your coverage and maintain reliable communication in areas where mobile networks fail.
Battery Life
The built-in 1200 mAh lithium battery is long-lasting. With typical usage and the low-power e-ink display, it can last most weekend trips before needing a recharge. Maximum working current is around 340 mA, and low-power standby drops to ~34 µA.
GPS and Safety
Integrated GPS supports GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and QZSS, offering accurate tracking for group safety. Combined with mesh messaging, this gives real-time positional awareness even in remote areas - a major plus for UKSN activities and outdoor adventures.
The Small Details That Matter
Not a Voice Device
Despite the “walkie-talkie” label sometimes used by retailers, the ThinkNode M5 does not support voice communication. All interaction is text and GPS based.
For many outdoor and preparedness scenarios, this is not a weakness. Text is discreet, uses less power, can be logged, and works extremely well in mesh networks.
No Built-In Clip
The main practical downside is the lack of a built-in clip or carabiner point, which makes attaching the device directly to webbing, belts, or rucksack less convenient. The ThinkNode M5 does include a small lanyard hole, so you can loop it onto thin cord, but this is far from the convenience of a dedicated clip. In our opinion, a built-in clip or loop for a carabiner would be a welcome addition in future iterations. As it stands, placing the device in a pocket may also partially block the signal, so the lanyard hole is helpful but not a complete solution.
E-Ink Screen Behaviour
The e-ink display is excellent outdoors and fantastic for battery life, but it does refresh more slowly than a normal screen. When scrolling menus or receiving updates, there is a noticeable pause. Most users adapt quickly, but it’s worth being aware of if you’re used to instant smartphone responses.
An Underutilised Control Knob
The Think Node M5 features a rotary knob, but at present it’s only used to adjust screen brightness. While that’s useful, it feels like a missed opportunity. Given the device’s small screen and menu-based interface, we would much rather have seen this implemented as a primary control knob, allowing users to scroll through menus and select options more intuitively.
A simple press-to-select function combined with rotation for navigation would have made moving through the system far easier and more natural. Instead, you’re reliant on the side buttons, which work, but can feel slightly confusing and less fluid than a central control would be. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s another area where a future iteration of the M5 could significantly improve the user experience.
Durability and Protection
Because the ThinkNode M5 is clearly targeting outdoor enthusiasts and emergency communications, we would like to see the case rubberised to protect the device from knocks, drops, and harsh conditions. A USB-C cover would also help prevent dust or water ingress, and full waterproofing would make the device even more versatile for extreme conditions. We also found that tapping the casing produces a subtle metallic, harmonic vibration from inside the device. Nothing feels loose and functionality is unaffected, but it reinforces the impression that this is a compact electronic node, not a shockproof or military grade unit. Of course, ruggedisation would likely increase costs, but for serious outdoor or prepper use, they would be welcome enhancements. With this said, we will pass on our thoughts directly to our friends at Elecrow in the hope that they will utilise our recommendations when manufacturing LoRa hardware in the future.
Cost and Value
It’s important to keep the ThinkNode M5’s price firmly in mind when reading this review. Even with the limitations we’ve pointed out, this is a device that can often be picked up for less than £65, which represents incredible value for money. You’re getting a finished, self-contained unit with GPS, e-ink screen, battery, and enclosure included, not a development board that still needs additional hardware, parts soldering, and the ability to 3D print a case (or at least source one). When viewed through that lens, many of the M5’s compromises become far more understandable.
Introducing ThinkNode M5 (Official Video)
How the ThinkNode M5 Fits Into the UKSN World
For UKSN members interested in Project LoRa, Meshtastic, and secure decentralised communication - the ThinkNode M5 fits beautifully.
It works as a personal node, a group messaging tool, a safety tracker and even as part of a wider community network such as Project Lora. Whether used on camps, adventures or as part of long-term preparedness planning, it offers capabilities that your phone simply cant match, especially when off grid, or the cellular network is down. Just be extra careful to avoid getting it soaked during your outdoor escapades.
Specifications
Feature | Specification |
Processor | ESP32-S3 dual-core Xtensa 32-bit LX7 (240 MHz) |
Memory | 512 KB SRAM, 8 MB PSRAM |
Storage | 4 MB Flash, 384 KB ROM |
Firmware | Meshtastic compatible |
Display | 1.54-inch EPD, 200×200 , 2s refresh |
Battery | 1200 mAh lithium, max 340 mA / standby 34 µA |
Wireless | LoRa: SX1262, EU 868 MHz; Bluetooth 5.4 BLE |
GPS | GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, QZSS |
Interface | USB Type-C, RP-SMA antenna |
Buttons | On/Off knob , function button, page turn, GPS toggle, reset |
LEDs | Power, GPS/LoRa status |
Size & Weight | 82×51.6×26.3 mm, 58 g (without case), 81 g (with case) |
Enclosure | ABS plastic |
Operating Temp | -10 °C to 50 °C |
Storage Temp | -20 °C to 60 °C |
Humidity | 10–95 % @40 °C (non-condensing) |
Final Thoughts
The ThinkNode M5 is not a voice walkie-talkie, but it’s a powerful off-grid communications device. Encrypted messages, GPS location sharing, long-range LoRa, and ready-to-use construction make it ideal for UKSN members, Charters, outdoor enthusiasts, hikers and preppers.
Its strengths include long battery life, reliable mesh networking, built-in GPS, and a fully ready-to-go design - no cases, extra modules, or assembly required. These features, along with the great price make it a must have communication tool.
For anyone wanting reliable, encrypted, off-grid communication without fiddly DIY builds, the Elecrow ThinkNode M5 is a great choice (if you can overlook the minor shortcomings and issues with MacOS). It’s a perfect addition to your kit, whether for camps, hikes, events, or emergency planning.
UKSN Rating: ★★★ (3/5)
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