Heltec v4

The Heltec WiFi LoRa 32 V4 represents the latest evolution of the popular Heltec LoRa series. Building upon the success of the V3, this version adds improved 28dBm output power and enhanced power management, making it one of the best value options for mesh networking in 2025 & 2026.

• 28dBm Output Power: Increased transmission power for extended range
• Dual-core ESP32-S3: Powerful ESP32-S3R2 processor for running MeshCore or Meshtastic firmware
• SX1262 LoRa chip: Long-range, low-power radio communication
• 0.96” OLED Display: Shows basic message and status information
• Improved Battery Management: Better efficiency and longer runtime
• WiFi & Bluetooth: Connect to smartphones or configure via web interface

Compared to the V3, the V4 offers:

• Higher output power (28dBm vs. standard power)
• Better power efficiency: Longer battery life
• Enhanced thermal management: Runs cooler under load
• Improved antenna connector: More reliable connection
• Improved MCU: from ESP32-S3N8 (v3) to ESP32-S3R2 (v4) & Flash upgraded from 8MB built-in to 16MB external, + 2M PSRAM
• New Solar Support: New SH1.25-2P solar energy interface
• Wireless performance:
  • LoRa transmission power upgraded from 21 ± 1dBm to 28 ± 1dBm.
  • 2.4G antenna, upgraded from metal spring antenna to FPC antenna.
• Peripheral Interface:
  • Cancel CP2102.
  • Add SH1.25-8Pin GNSS interface.
  • Pin expansion from 36Pin to 40Pin, providing more GPIO.
• Process and Design:
  • The screen connection method has changed from welding to B2B interface, supporting free disassembly and assembly of the screen.
  • The pin process has changed from silver plating to gold plating, resulting in better conductivity and oxidation resistance.
  • Better screen protection

• See this long list of enhancements, focusing on RX LNA section enhancements.

Perfect for:

• Upgrading from V3 for better range
• First-time mesh network users wanting the latest version
• Companion radio with smartphone app
• Deployments requiring maximum range on a budget
• Experimental projects and learning

• Requires external antenna (915MHz for US)
• Flash with MeshCore or Meshtastic firmware
• Connect via Bluetooth to smartphone app
• Optional: Add GPS module via expansion pins
• Can be powered by USB-C or LiPo battery
• Higher output power provides better range with quality antennas

• Measured output power is disputed. MeshCore issue #1708 is a technical review of the V4’s actual output power; some participants there suggest configuring the radio down to roughly 20 dBm rather than the advertised 28 dBm.
• External LNA bypass and low-power tuning. MeshCore-Low-Power-Firmware-For-Heltec-V3-V4 documents bypassing the V4’s external LNA, along with further tuning options.
• Re-flashing after the first time can be confusing (Meshtastic issue #8543). Reported workaround: plug in USB, press and hold both buttons at the same time, then release Reset while still holding Program.

• Official Documentation
• Meshtastic Hardware Guide
• Compatible with MeshCore Flasher