Cardo VS Sena | Which is best? | Cruiseman's Reviews | CruisemansGarage.com

I compare the Cardo PackTalk Bold to the new Sena 50S and 50R headsets.
▶︎ CARDO PACKTALK BOLD: cardosystems.rfrl.co/jm315
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▶︎ SENA 50R: amzn.to/3eF3Mv3
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[@damon323]

I just started to ride ATV’s with my wife. Chose the Cardo Freecom 4 Plus. We only use it for intercom. It works amazing. Having said that, Sena and Cardo are laughing all the way to the bank, they are insanely expensive. Very simple devices for today’s standards. Oooh, Bluetooth, FM radio, charging while using the device??😂 I honestly have no idea why you can’t intercom with 500 riders within a reasonable range and get a 10 pack of these things for under $200

[@tremorflow3614]

Long time Sena user, multiple head sets from the smh 5 upto the 30k, couple in between. I lost the rubber on the 30k charge port rendering it useless in the rain which I ride a lot in. I emailed sena to get a replacement tiny rubber grommet and they wanted me to send the whole unit to them and charge me 70 dollars. Am now a cardo bold user, as simple as that. Customer service is key!!

[@RxMich]

I have had 2 separate Sena 30S units. The first lasted a couple of months before taking a trip around Lake Superior. The cold near the lake and warmer humid air at the top of the hills shorted out the unit and fried the board. 5 months later a replacement came. First trip back from West Virginia through a rain shower shorted out the replacement unit so that only bluetooth still works and only if I plug in a USB cable. Taken apart, the buttons are fairly well protected with o-rings and seals but the risible antenna is another story. There is direct open access to the motherboard at the pivot which makes it useless against weather. If I were to get another Sena product (unlikely) I would use electrical tape over the antenna and the mesh button to try to seal it off as even in the down position, it can capillary water into the unit. I don't ride in parades where I need to talk to 25 other people at once. I DO need to hear gps directions without the need to look at a screen in inclement weather where my focus needs to be on road conditions. This fact alone seals the deal which one I prefer. Only when Sena feels the need to produce an IP67+ style unit would I come back to the table. They are not cheap units and throwing away $270 for less than one year's total use is nuts.

[@BenJamin-ou7kd]

This is the review for 50s snd 50r,

[@RxMich]

@@BenJamin-ou7kd, they have not fixed the weather reliability issue in any of their units so the critique remains valid. None of their units carry IP67 rating and are listed as "weather resistant" which truly means very little... my 30S said the same thing.

[@RxMich]

A friend and I recently came back from West Virginia where we experienced Tropical Storm Fred for a few days on the road. Several hours of wet weather and about 2 hours of heavy torrential rains and the Cardo Pactalk Bold units were communicating in Mesh about 1/2 mile apart in heavy rain and faithfully giving me my gps turns throughout the day. Choose what you want...but if you purchase the Sena, save it for sunny days.

[@mzbrayzn7404]

This was a very well rounded comparison, thank you. I have never had a problem with my Sena 30k and will continue with it for now.

[@cruisemansgarage]

Thanks for sharing

[@janodewulf]

Great video, very nicely edited, researched and presented. Greatly appreciated. THANK YOU

[@haseotorres2770]

I got myself a Cardo Packtalk Black. It's gorgeous, because of its 45mm JBL Speakers, you can hear remarkable difference. Tried it for 5 straight hours in the rain. Never did I encountered any issue. And as an Asian, English is not my natural language (you can definitely tell in the way a construct this comment) but the Cardo never failed to execute voice command with my natural voice. Lastly it's way cheaper than Sena. So I'm all Cardo Packtalk Black all the way. Can't wait for the the EDGE to arrive

[@scummy73dude64]

Great video mate. Answered a tone of questions for me. Keep up the great work 👍👍

[@mikespicer2810]

Very informative video Cruiseman. Keep them coming. 👍 Be safe and ride safely.

[@HeDevil287]

Great review. good comparison and text bullet points. Subscribed!

[@jean-pierrejutras480]

Actually the JBL speakers connect to the Cardo Packtalk Bold using the same connector as wired earbuds.

[@markbaker5221]

I have the PackTalk and I must say that the sound quality and ease of use are great. Also being waterproof instead of water resistant like the Sena is a must in the U.K.

[@jimhofner264]

I have a Sena 20, 30, and 50. Just recently decided to get a Packtalk Bold. I got pretty tired of all the issues related to the Sena’s. Battery life, wind noise canceling, voice commands, and app is much better with the Cardo. Also I look ke the waterproof

[@AmerSheikh]

Love this comparison...excellent way of laying out the differences between the two.

[@ne-adv]

We use private channels for our groups and open mesh for big groups/random pick-ups. You don't ride with a bunch on open, you split off and go private unless someone signals a go to open, because the group is taking a gas break. With Mesh 2.0, reconnecting is a button push, and disconnecting is a button push. If someone on a 20S EVO is connected to two Mesh riders, the private mesh gets sent to the 20S EVO and forwarded on bluetooth to an open mesh, so one person in the group rides both open and private and we take turns. It's no more clunky than normal all 20S connections. If then SENA is using bluetooth, battery is about 9 hours. Using mesh, about 7 hours. Using BOTH its about 6 hours.

[@starkruzen]

Great video, thanks. This subject is like Apple vs Android. To me, I use the Sena 30K because I started with the Sena 10s, then 20s, and now 30k and probably a 50R in the future. My riding group also uses Sena. I have no experience with Cardio so I can not comment on which is better. Another group I ride with still uses CB radios. For just communications, the CB wins hands down if your motorcycle is so equipped. I think the technology will only get better and pretty soon we will all be laughing about using these devices.

[@e-gadgetsfreakITA]

A well done review, I was pleased by watching it. If I may, I would also consider for your future review other aspects, which are not secondary: customer support, compatibility with previous helmet sets same brand, and average cost. All around good job👍, keep up! 😄

[@GetOut-Ride]

The other player on the Cardo side is the Packtalk Slim, perhaps a better differentiator than the 50R with Sena. I have been very pleased with my Packtalk Bold and oddly have never had BT connection issues with my Goldwing, it reliably connects every time regardless of what order I turn them on. The only time I have ever had to reconnect or re-pair has been after the Goldwing firmware updates that wipe everything out.

[@DavidSpragg]

Nice comparison. I'm stoked to see the tech moving forward. I've actually joined an open mesh (on channel 1 I guess) with my Sena 30K with two riders I never spoke to again. I just tapped the button since I saw one of them had a 30K. I politely left the mesh quickly but they laughed. I wonder if they moved to the non-open mesh later. :)

[@UncleLongbeard]

Don't know about Sena, but I had 3 packtalks for 5 years already and zero single problem with those. Fully waterproof, easy to live with, no pairing issues whatsoever.

[@JohnnyC10071959]

This is a really well done comparison. The format where you show the text on the left with details under each point is a great choice. I will also say you touch on a point I have not seen in other reviews; you mention both can be charged while in use. This is a HUGE deal for a long-distance rider. I carry a 10AH battery in a small breast-positioned pocket in my jacket and run the cable to the SENA. It is good for two days in a row, 20 hours/day. I play music all the time (which is a drain on the battery). You list 15 users on MESH as an advantage for CARDIO. Why? SENA allows more riders. How is it an advantage for CARDIO? For me the bottom-line is I am too deeply invested n SENA to change hordes.

[@cruisemansgarage]

Thanks for the kind words. The 15 rider advantage was a little confusing. I meant to clarify that it is an advantage over a traditional Bluetooth intercom with a 4 rider max.

[@CrescenDo445]

Very good comments and video. One of the best videos I have seen....

[@vroshan96]

Using CARDO PACKTALK BOLD ... It's the best and never had any issue connecting my KTM Adventure or the mobile phone. Automatic volume leveler works the best incase of wind noise increase .. volume automatically increases and also the ambient noise filter is also the highlight.

[@sunnyzhang7475]

I'm in a group with 10+ bikes, most of us have 50s, with one 30k, one 20c and one cardo. Before we hit the road we turn on open mesh. The 30k supports mesh so it blends in seamlessly. We pair the 20c and cardo to a specific 50s, and they were relayed into the mesh group no problem. Keep in mind that since bluetooth is tied to a specific 50s, they have to be close to that unit to talk instead of being able to roam inside the group. And cardo can only be paired by universal intercom, which took us couple of days to figure out how.

[@BroRonDM]

Yes a non 30K/50 user can pair via bluetooth and bridge to mesh network perfectly. As usual, if bluetooth pairin is 4 or less, very stable connection.

[@steveknode4517]

Cruiseman, Good review of these two units. One thing I haven't seen any comments about is riding in a group using CB's. Most GWRRA Chapter members are riding earlier versions of the Wing and communicate via CB's. I tried Cardo and couldn't make it work while using CB's. In fact, Cardo told me it would never work while using CB's. That was a couple of years ago so maybe that's changed. But for the foreseeable future, some folks will be riding with CB's and my headset needs to be able to communicate with them. So I'm now using Motion 6 headsets by UClear. You said a mouth full when you said that the Bluetooth technology isn't there yet. I'm still working with UClear to resolve a host of issues that mainly occur when I ride 2 up. Riding solo everything, include CB use, works pretty well. Having had a Cardo, I do think the sound quality of the Motion 6 is not as good as Cardo. But I don't think anyone has solved all of the issues of using Bluetooth on a very high tech 2018+ Goldwing.

[@cjmmjc2131]

so you are saying that the cardo will not pair with a freewire

[@steveknode4517]

No. I don't know anything about freewire. Just that it won't work trying to use the CB directly through the 2018 Wing. And, again, things may have changed because I was talking about my initial experience with Cardo and my post was 11 months ago on top of that.

[@jimnielsen4076]

Very good comparison! Good details!

[@cruisemansgarage]

Glad you think so!

[@benporter4792]

Thanks for telling us about all ya do .thank you Ben

[@samuroadventure1227]

The Cardo sound is excellent. I don’t have any other brand to compare, but I think the Cardo is the bests out there.

[@mikebranscum]

Cardo Packtalk Bold is the best headset by far.

[@taekim5477]

how? is it because its way more cheaper? ha

[@mikebranscum]

No. Because of it superior mesh technology and more reliable.

[@BriNaCa]

The best one is the one your riding buddies are using.

[@Fee.1]

@@mikebranscum you’re using a lot of hyperbole with zero substantive information. Mind actually supplying...well, anything, anything concrete at all? no disrespect intended but this is exactly how people speak who are operating off of nothing except post-purchase reinforcement bias so it would be helpful if you’d describe in concrete terms in what ways it’s superior. If citing “superior mesh” please do say a couple words about what the hell that actually means. Thanks.

[@PanRider939]

Better because if you’re in rainstorm the Sena will most likely die. If you are unfortunate enough to drop your helmet and it lands on the unit, the shuttle dial on the Sena is so exposed it will be wrecked, from experience the Packtalk shuttle roller is protected by the body of the unit.

[@dennism665]

I’ve used 30K without issues. Mesh is nice if you ride with others who have it. My ride buddies don’t so it was mostly useless except for connection to my Tour 6sp. I’ve gone to a Sena 10C Evo which I like. Connects flawlessly to the bike. I can shut down the bike, get gas, visit the Cstore, come back out and the bike reconnects to CarPlay without any other intervention 99% of the time. I can even remove the phone and later reconnect it without issues unless I turn off the headset. I’m running the newest Honda Navi update and Sena’s version 1.2 firmware. I had updated to Sena 1.2.1 and had some issues so I reverted back and am happy again. I did have to re-pair the headset after the Honda update. I’ve ridden in heavy rain on several occasions and had no water issues with either 30K or 10C Evo. Perhaps more info than you want, but thought some would be interested.

[@louisloong406]

My 50R connects every time to my BMW GS1250. Good review by the way.

[@cruisemansgarage]

Very possible it could be an issue with the Goldwing Bluetooth.

[@spotlesscommercialcleaning621]

Have you find the 50R Volume? I need something quite loud so I can hear through air plugs

[@kernjn]

Sena 50 series has voice commands to easily control most Mesh functions. (Cardo does not have any voice commands for Mesh) USB-C charging cable has a built-in WIFI module. Set it up once to connect to internet through your home WIFI and it automatically installs firmware updates when they become available. USB-C connection can charge the battery 60% in 20 minutes. Earphone jack on cradle disconnects speakers when earphones are plugged in. Ambient button near bottom of cradle turns on an external microphone so if you stop for gas/convenience store and don't take off your helmet, you can easily hear conversation with store clerks etc.

[@tinkertime7165]

After hearing of real customer service issues with Sena I purchased the Cardo Packtalk bold. I'm very happy with it so far, just need to get used to the features!

[@Fee.1]

Like what

[@MrRick5862]

I use the Cardo PackTalk Bold. I find the sound quality superior to the Sena 20S I previously used. Also, I found that powering up my Cardo PTB, then powering up my 2018 Gold Wing, then connecting my iPhone 11, all work fairly well. I have the most difficulty connecting Apple Car Play. Seems I sometimes have to connect, disconnect, then reconnect a few times before ACP is recognized. There was a Cardo PTB firmware update in May or June. Likewise, I believe the Gold Wing has had 2 software updates in the last few months. It’s my understanding that the most recent software update was to make the infotainment system compatible with Android auto.

[@harrybenson9983]

Unfortunately all the firmware updates on the Cardo Packtalk and Goldwing did not improve the connectivity of Apple Carplay. That has been my experience. It is still a crap shoot whether it starts up the first time or not.

[@nevspacey6913]

@@harrybenson9983 2022 Wing: Android Auto - crap shoot, still

[@rooster3019]

I agree with previous comment about Sena haveing ear bud port. Get high quality noise reduction/hearing protection buds and sound is EXCELLENT.

[@czaras_]

Would you tell us what model of earbuds do you use?

[@rooster3019]

@@czaras_ I prefer Etymotic Research and have several model varients, I do not have their highest level ones.

[@zman92630]

I have used the Scala Rider, currently use the Cardo Packtalk bold, and have used the Sena SMH-10 (old analog unit) and more recently, the Sena 20S, which finally died on me due to heavy rain. Both units do the job, but between Packtalk bold and Sena 20S, the clear winner in noise reduction is Packtalk bold. The ambient noise was so quiet when speaking to a buddy, I had to ask him if he was still connected to me. I am getting the 50S delivered tomorrow, so I will look forward to the fast charging system! IMHO opinion, I don't have a basis yet for the 50S, but I'm guessing that either will easily meet your needs.

[@jimhofner264]

I like the waterproof feature on the Cardo. Tech help is much better with Cardo. Bluetooth connects better to my bikes audio with the Cardo than the SENA.

[@taekim5477]

does water prove do anything?

[@bramfrank409]

Based on this review I am pleased to know that my decision to continue to use Sena is the right one. You left out the fact that the Sena has tone controls. Tone controls may well offset any benefits that the Cardo's JBL speakers provide (or better yet further enhance the experience with the Sena if you bought a set of them - or perhaps the iAsus Xsound 3 - and connected those to your Sena 50). And whether they are better or not, for those of us who use 'ear buds' Cardo's JBL speakers are a non-issue. Remember, with ear buds your battery lasts longer, and if you use a noise isolating sleeve with your earphones you get the benefits of ear plugs and the possibility of 'you are there' sound reproduction. And, if you don't want to use the speakers you can leave them out altogether and install the supplied weatherproofing cover over the Sena speaker jacks. I see in the comments that some people seem to have issues with wind noise picked up by their microphones. No one I ride with has any problems on that score. Could they have microphone reversed, with the front facing the wind stream? You also didn't mention Sena's ambient microphone, which has served me well over the years. And there is the handlebar remote - another life saver, though Sena needs to add a function to support the mesh radio - you still need to use the button on the module to turn Mesh Intercom on and off if you aren't using voice command. As to the 'waterproofness' of the Sena, I've had the SMH10B, the 20s (which is the same as the 20S EVO, by the way) and the 30K and all have been through torrential rain without issue - yet I see people complaining about even light rain causing problems - the only pro-active thing I do is to wipe the contacts down after riding in driving rain. I wonder if a LIGHT application of Vaseline to the contacts on the clamp wouldn't prevent issues for those who have experienced issues? Lastly, bear in mind that pairing up a Cardo (or any other intercom brand) to bridge it into a Mesh connection (Sena's Cardo's or anything else) is a huge compromise - range is very short on Universal-paired devices and it does use up one of the cell phone connections.

[@jimkrausch3933]

I am a long time Sena user. I've been reasonably happy with bluetooth intercom, but have had nothing but trouble with the Mesh. When I first got my 30K, I gave up completely on Mesh until they upgraded to Mesh 2.0. I've only tried it a couple of times, but found it to be no better. Range is about 50 feet and then it starts breaking up, cutting out and is virtually unusable.

[@Hiawathado]

I have cardo bold. Bought it same time my brother bought his Sena 50S. I drive almost 2 years almost daily in rain, sun and cold. My brother drives only summer and sunny days. While ago he bought his second 50S. Because first one was crapped after one week driving in the rain. Have to admit that sounds quality on Sena is little better in my opinion.

[@rooster3019]

I was helped by this video. I decided to keep my Sena 20S-EVO until the makes get this perfected. ;-)

[@Fee.1]

It’s kind of sad IMO because what I can tell you as a tech nerd that’s worked with manufacturers of Bluetooth devices going back to its debut, they’re actually engineering many of these pain points in as a way to engender forced brand loyalty. Bluetooth is an open standard and if they do chose they could make everything compatible with everything else and set them up to automatically fall back to the best connection possible in the event of connecting to devices that are of two different generations...automatically connecting via the /highest/ common denominator should be the way they work. Many of these issues were sorted a decade ago so it’s quite irritating to run into companies selling “bleeding edge” features like various mesh implementations but also simultaneously doing so little to make sure these devices work as well as they possibly can no matter what they’re connected to

[@ezestudiosvegas]

@@Fee.1 Perfectly said. I am getting a new bike and going to enjoy life on 2 wheels again. I've been a tech engineer for 30 years and I am now looking into comm devices. I am getting frustrated on how these MFGs are taking a generic technology and making it proprietary. Not to mention their proprietary cable connectors. Been trying to figure out just how to get audio out of the comms device into my new GoPro 9 Black with Media Mod, which basically has the 1/8" mic input which is dynamically controlled on the GoPro. Is a simple 3.5mm-1/8" line or stereo out too much to ask for?

[@MrMindlink]

@@ezestudiosvegas The SENA's that have a base unit (50S etc.) have a 3.5mm-1/8" stereo out... this is where we plug in our noise-isolating/noise-canceling ear buds when we do not want to use the in-helmet speakers.

[@rlward55]

Good comparison. Leaning towards a new Sena 50R in 2021.

[@Itsarsenioa]

I’ve tried sena 10c,20s,20s evo on rain with no problem, and i’ve used the bridge mesh 20s to 30k using bluetooth, and join the mesh, and it does work, never tried the bridge with other brand tho

[@jimpatton7683]

I can’t comment on Cardo, but I enjoy Sena products. I just upgraded to 50S from 30K (and 20S before that) each Sena has been much improved. Looking forward to using Open Mesh as the COVID situation improves. Sound quality is excellent!

[@jimpatton7683]

And BTW, I’ve spent all day in heavy rain beating on my 20S and 30K without any issues - perhaps I’ve just been lucky.

[@kodell5768]

@@jimpatton7683 I've never had any issues with Sena 20S, 30K nor 50S in any rain or downpours.

[@jimslongroad419]

One thing that I think you failed to address is customer service. I had a nightmare of a time getting Sena to fix or replace my faulty headset. I switched to cardo and, through my own fault, damaged the cardo packtalk bold. I called Cardo and told them my mistake. They sent me a brand new unit no questions asked and no charge. Search the internet, my story is not an isolated incident. Cardo is 100 times better in customer support!

[@ridersparadise2299]

I went for a Sena 50S, as I have different helmets, so easy just to replace the outside unit. Each helmet has its own mounting kit.

[@nycowboy2288]

That’s one thing I’m thinking about. Looks like the pack talk has a sticky. And the Sena has a clamp . Is that correct?

[@mjsheen8445]

@@nycowboy2288 50s has clamp.

[@stewartbrann2980]

Another advantage of Sena’s USB-C is for vloggers like yourself that use GoPro equipment. Now the charging cables are compatible among the devices.

[@ezestudiosvegas]

Great True World Test. Exactly what are you using to get the audio OFF the headset into your video camera. Thanks, Eric.

[@merlinxyzzy]

I never have to reconnect my 30k to my 2018 GW regardless if I turn the 30K off or leave it on when I turn off my Wing. I have upgraded to mesh 2.0 and it is a huge improvement. I have ridden in heavy rain all day and never have issues with the Sena. I also use Bose NC ear buds using the Sena earbud socket and the sound quality is exceptional and increases my Sena 30K battery life by some 50% because the NC earbuds have their own battery and the Sena headphones take more power.

[@nevspacey6913]

Now you're talking. That's exactly why I'm interested in the Sena. Being able to interface directly to the Bose noise cancelling via the 3.5mm jack in the Sena. That's a game changer. I'm on my 3rd set of Bose in-ear NC over about 10 years. On those all day rides, the silence and the comfort really count... I've had a Cardo G9X pair since 2014. Hated them every single day. My BMW 1250 hated them too. Connecting them to the Wing and interfacing with Android Auto is a random affair. I've tried the CarLink Wireless Android device which improved the initial connection which was great. However, when making a phone call, the microphone stops working.

[@nevspacey6913]

Merv, how did you package the Bose NC unit and the short 3.5mm jack cable onto your helmet. Velcro? How did you hide the length of cable to the earbuds?

[@weetnietgeen]

The only thing i seem to mis with every review is : how well do both systems Noise Canceling Feature work? Im taking delivery of my sena 50s tomorrow and cant wait to test it out but id love to see a video/explanation/answer/experience on this matter

[@PanRider939]

15:22 I ride with friends who have Packtalk. I got cheap Chinese Bluetooth unit for my pillion and when I pair them and bridge them into the mesh they can hear and communicate with the pack. In fact to loud and clear 😆

[@markmccormic6622]

We have been using CB radios for over 20 years. For ride management. It works the best. For basic communication I have used Cardo since 2015. First Q3 blues tooth. I worked ok for communication with pillion. With a group it was way more hassle than it is worth. Upgraded to the packtalk bold when it came out. I have paired with a few of my friends and the mesh has worked great for two years. I have two complaints after 6 years of use. 1. Cardo and Sena mesh is not compatible. 2. The helmet manufactures are not building in the cradle into helmet.

[@JohnnyC10071959]

Using SENA 30K (with new firmware for MESH 2.0). I am impressed by one-half mile using BT. I cannot get that unless I am in a line-of-sight and not going too fast. In canyons It can drop to a few hundred yards,

[@carvama1]

My 30K goes about that far with bluetooth as well. It does cut out more than the mesh. The 2.0 is a marked improvement over the previous mesh. Do you notice any interference with overhead power lines?

[@ne-adv]

One Cardo user using a Sena mesh blue, forwards all Cardo comms to Sena open mesh. and all Sena open mesh get pushed to the Mesh blue and the Cardo connected to the Mesh Blue forwards to the Cardo group mesh.

[@AFPF7982]

I have connected my 50S via bluetooth to both 20 & 20EVO while ann other 50S connected to two other 20S and into an open mesh group of 16 riders bring the group total to 22 riders. The 50S remembers those 20S units and reconnect the next time we are all together again. and thereb are several easy way to connect with the SENA Connect App.

[@10fantic]

I was a long time sena user as well. Had the 50S and just didn’t like it. The voice commands worked 2 times out of 10 for me. The app for both android and iPhone was crashing, and I just wanted a smaller unit. Bought the bold and it’s been great, I’m sold in the Cardo ecosystem it’s nicer. Going to be upgrading to the new Edge soon.

[@michalispolyzos]

My Sena 20s Evo started playing up with distortion in sound and crackling sounds and activating the "ambient sound" when I rode in heavy rain, so now I'm looking to get a cardo

[@kevinwilliams8907]

I purchased the Sena HD branded 30k to be compatible with the HD Boom Box and WHIM. IT all pairs right up and makes Bluetooth connection for Music intercom phone and nav. works flawlessly if you never move. the moment you move any wind causes the mike to go into vox mode and shut off all music nav phone making those functions useless at anything over 5MPH even with the VOX sensitivity set low. Eventually you lose the intercom with your passenger also. Nothing you can do but wait for it to come back on for a couple of minutes or shut it off and back on. On a two-hour ride you can get 15 minutes of use at best. the cost for a pair of these and a WHIM for use on Harleys will be about 1000 bucks, don't waste your money, you would be better off with two cans and a string. I'm seriously considering unpairing them from the boom box and using it strictly for intercom a task my old SMH10 handled just fine. Money would be better spent on an aftermarket amp and upgraded speakers

[@bobf43ca]

Maybe a comparison between the latest Cardo Edge, would be better.

[@c.wilson9990]

Thanks for the review. My 20S has died. Will you be doing the new 50S with camera?

[@richardweiss1222]

Really wish comparisons would include 1) use with CB for single and two-up riding and 2) two-up riding. Both of those are very common configurations that need to be addressed for the community.

[@richardweiss1222]

I have SLR 2s for rider and passenger and just got the 50S dual pack

[@TheMajorKC]

Just need cardo to come out with a newer model with type C. I have both a cardo packtalk bold and slim on different helmets and they were released a couple years ago compare to the 50s/50r.

[@marcselders2781]

Good review, but have a question about wind noise. Our 20s evo seems to get a lot of wind noise when connected(intercom on) to someone. It will fade out the music quite often, and yes the outside mic is off. Did you check the two systems for wind noise with intercom on? Also when installing their phone application. Why does the Sena want to have permission to take pictures and record video off your phone before allowing you to install their application? What does PackTalk ask permission for, before allowing you to use their application. This is the game breaker for me.

[@chempner2528]

Actually the Sena has Harman&Kardon speakers, and Harman&Kardon actually bought JBL as a company... and i really wouldn't be surprised if these were exactly the same speakers.

[@jammcguire1276]

If you check back to this review, do you know anything about the Sena model made for Nolan N Com?

[@d.howardcolesjr4862]

On my 2021 GoldWing my Cardo Packtalk connected very easily, and stays connected. I normally have my Cardo on before I turn the Bike on, and it always connect up. I have my phone as device 1, and the Bike is "Mobile 2". However, it works all the time. The only thing that has skipped a beat here and there is the Android Auto.

[@edwardmcgee494]

I use the Sena 10c pro with camera. Very reliable.

[@taekim5477]

it is, it is

[@nickiwarnick9370]

We like to snowmobile a lot and I have the Garmin Rhino GPS. What would you recommend for those that like to be in the snow whether its snowmobiling or skiing?

[@patrickcallahan2885]

I use the Sena 20S EVO, but I seldom ride in a group. My wife and I both use the 20S EVO so that we can communicate together, but she sits right behind me. I like the idea of the Mesh connection, but haven’t really had the need as I seldom ride in a group. I ride a Kawasaki Concours 14 2019.

[@sunnyzhang7475]

Open Mesh is awesome. I once was gassing up, and my buddy passed by. I heard him on sena, and said hi, scared the shit out of him

[@Nyc007bangerz]

Sena 50s ftw!

[@ad78]

i got some serious issue on 50r. listening to music with open mesh will fade the music as soon as noise captured like rev the bike, loud noise from outside. it doesnt identify which is which for filtering. it should be filter only the voice and nothing else. returning and will get the bold

[@rodin4429]

I'm a year late. lol. Thanks for the review. Some details you don't seem to cover are the voice commands and wind noise reduction. The Cardo units offer much more in the way of voice commands. On my SRL and 30K there is no possibility to reach Siri or Google. My helmet has the SRL (Shoei Neotec 2) and my son's helmet (Neotec 1) has the 30K - the wind noise from his unit is bit of a nightmare (yes, of course we have tried lots of things to correct it!). I still have my SRL but I am looking to change to Cardo because of the voice commands...

[@frar.841]

Hi, can you please tell me if the package of a new unit comes with some kind of seal? I just received my packtalk duo today and didn’t find any seal on the outside box and none on the inside box, which I’m not sure if is a brand new one or just a return from someone else. Thanks

[@MrLew1965]

What is the battery life of the Cardo/Sena battery packs when not connected to the USB in hours ?? Accordingly, what is the charge time on these units from a Low unusable state to a fully charged state ? I believe you did not mention battery performance in this video ? TY 4 Ta Vids !! Lol

[@wlewis001fjr]

I have had my sena 20s for a few years, have done tours in storming rain, never an issue with it going out, or fading. of course it was by accident I did the first rain ride. previously would remove. First time, totally forgot about it because it was heavy rains. I was very concerned, but it kept on playing music. since then, never remove it unless ti charge. surely the 50s is of same or better quality of water resistance. Good video.

[@usafvet6766]

I can verify cardo systems Bluetooth headset is 100% waterproof because I have the freecom 4 cardio dual pair and they are 100% waterproof No doubt I've ridden and pouring down rain for hours on end they never cut out and they never lose power. 👍🏻👍🏻🇺🇸

[@BernhardEcht]

Have you been able to get voice commands on the Sena 50s while riding?

[@sakelleys]

I have the Cardo PackTalk Bold the box has the IP rating it's says IP67 Waterproof.

[@Chandrasekhification]

My riding buddy and I just bought the Sena 50R dual pack so we can communicate on our rides. I was blown away at the quality and easy installation. Still getting to grips with the full operation, but very impressed so far. My main impression is that this has opened up a new world for us both in our shared experiences and from a safety aspect.

[@Jason000111mmw]

Are you still as impressed now as you were making this review?

[@jamescatanzaro5532]

Have problems with cb on my Goldwing it drops off when someone keys the mic on another bike than I have to reconnect

[@jonfrankel5087]

Packtalk Bold (3 year old tech) is being compared to Sena 50 (brand new tech) H2O proof (Cardo) vs. Water Resistant (Sena) Cardo for the win all the way!

[@deszczykrobert4290]

Jon Frankel totally agree

[@pincushion619]

Another vote for the PackTalk Bold

[@danaszalajeski4416]

Cardo has been in the mesh market for years now. Sena just caught up, developed a mesh network that accepts more communicators, but is still not waterproof. Cardo still wins!

[@leonardlipton9874]

That other reviewer dropped both into glasses of water- the cardo kept working, unaffected but the sena drowned and stopped working. The other significant test he did was wind noise/noise cancellation with the mike held out front in the wind at speed- cardo was hands down the winner there. Sena’s open mesh is interesting but I agree with your opinion that more than a handful of riders trying to communicate would be crazy time unless you’re a tour operator.

[@cjmmjc2131]

OK for us folks with an older bike (05-gl1800)... wile any of these pair to a Sena freewire. and will ANY cardo pair to a freewire

[@kwicksandz]

i want to buy a packtalk bold but im worried they will release a USB C version right after i click buy

[@antonpeters1]

USB-C is fine but the microUSB connector works just fine. It is a great headset. You will not make a mistake.

[@dennisaston3551]

Buyer's remorse will always be around, you just have to pull the trigger when you need it and be happy with what you have. Packtalk Bold Black edition for me.

[@MrLew1965]

USB Adapters are pretty cheap !! Lol

[@mcooper320]

I have a Sena 30k updated and it has one serious shortcoming that Sena claims they will be fixing with a future firmware upgrade. You cannot use the Bluetooth intercom system, as with the driver and passenger having Open Mic intercom, and also have bluetooth music from the phone. This is a pretty serious shortcoming in my opinion. I want to be able to talk to my passenger via Bluetooth, and still listen to my music and let her listen to hers from her phone.

[@cruisemansgarage]

Why not communicate with your passenger using Mesh?

[@mcooper320]

@@cruisemansgarage I will have to try it. I was very impressed with the full duplex Bluetooth intercom system. I was just disappointed I could not use it.

[@andrewcriswell6865]

I have a 20s and 30k. I've never had any issues with water. I've ridden through hurricanes and thunderstorms with both and have not had a problem. Another bonus with the sena 20s and 30k is that the helmet mount is directly compatible with the 50s. So you don't have to change parts out when you get a newer unit. Also the 20s and 30k can use the new high definition speakers that the 50s comes with (which they now sell separately). One more thing with the sena units that is a huge advantage with the older Goldwings (2017 and older, I have a 2000) and Harley Davidsons is that you can get a helmet mount that comes with a different connection on the back (in place of the aux port) and a special cable that connects to the infotainment system. So you can still use the cb radio (which I do often on group rides). Those helmet mounts also come with a plate that goes in place of the sena communicator to turn it into a passive hardwired headset. So if the communication unit gets smashed or needs to charge and you can't charge it while riding, just put that plate on, and you can still use the cb. And sena has the freewire system as well for full bluetooth to the motorcycle.

[@carvama1]

My Sena 30K has been through some dramatic downpours without any issues. Maybe it's not waterproof but I've had no issues in the rain. The mesh 2.0 is much better and the way it pairs up is fantastic. I think it still suffers a little from environmental interference such as power lines but generally it's better. We've been able to go about a mile and still communicate but it has to be line of site. Around some big mountain curves it cuts out quickly. Overall I like my Sena 30K even though it could be better and seems to compare favorably to the two Sena products you reviewed. I have no idea on the Cardo since I've never used it.

[@cruisemansgarage]

I suspect your experience with rain and Sena is pretty typical.

[@DavidSpragg]

Yep. I've ridden days and days in the rain with Sena SMH10, Sena 20S, and less so with 30K and never had issues with these devices even years later. My wife has had the same experience and arguably more rain since she is taller and on the back, she really got hit and her own bike had way less protection. Your mileage may vary.

[@onerugrat]

I'm new to these, think I'm going with the cards due to being water "proof" I've been caught in the rain too many times

[@DavidSpragg]

I've ridden days and days in the rain with Sena SMH10, Sena 20S, and less so with 30K and never had issues with these devices even years later. My wife has had the same experience and arguably more rain since she is taller and on the back, she really got hit and her own bike had way less protection. Your mileage may vary.

[@mmurphy2005]

which is better for just rider and passenger communication? I really dont do bike to bike comms. Mainly music, phone and talking with my passenger. Thanks for any help

[@jolkasalamon4397]

Hi, I just bought sena 50s..and I thing( after ur comments) I shuld buy cardos because I living in Ireland 🌧️🌦️☔

[@06AUwing]

We got a Sena 10s when we bought our 2019 goldwing. The wind noise is horrible and the voice is garbled to the point I have no idea what my corider is saying. I'm looking for something else.

[@howierides]

I own the Sena 50s and rode in the rain all day in Oregon with no problems. The issue I'm having with my Sena has to do with getting it to pair via Bluetooth to my buddies Cardo Packtalk Bold. I wish the Sena 50s mesh was compatible with Cardo's mesh.

[@danaszalajeski4416]

Maybe someday Sena and Cardo will create a standard for mesh network like Bluetooth had years ago to make it universal.

[@jedberliner5402]

@@danaszalajeski4416 I wanna be in the room when it happens. 🤣

[@bramfrank409]

@@danaszalajeski4416 Good luck with that.

[@terryboyle]

Have you tried the new UClear Motion Infinity Bluetooth Helmet Audio System?

[@cruisemansgarage]

Have not.

[@daniellinetty9228]

I had an issue pairing my Sena 50S with Cardo. Once paired we are able to talk only few seconds. Then connection is dropped. After a while you can connect again if it is initialised by cardo. But again after few seconds we cant here each other. Anybody of you know what is wrong ?

[@scuollo]

Question...does Cardo make a Bluetooth adapter for non-BT devices to connect them to the CArdo device? For example, attach this BT adapter to a CB radio to receive and transmit?

[@cruisemansgarage]

I am not aware of anything like that.

[@kernjn]

Sena SR10 works with 2 way radios, pairs with Sena communucators, probably cardo too.

[@DonLafontaine62]

I use earbuds with my cardo, I either plug in the speakers, or the earbuds.

[@DGaeng]

How is the reconnecting in open mesh with Sena? Does it work seemless or do you have to stop and reconnect? Thx

[@TerryBlanchard]

It just reconnects. It’s more analogous to a walkie-talkie. It just broadcasts and receives on a designated channel, so there is no connecting/pairing process.

[@bernarddeschamps8538]

Connection with Packtalk is still a mystery to me after more or less 5 years usage with Goldwing and BMW communication systems... Where can I find a replacement battery because mine is dying after two hours of usage? I have to connect to an external battery but it is a pain.

[@cruisemansgarage]

I'm not sure if the battery can be replaced. You would need to contact Cardo about that.

[@joseregueiro5355]

Sena Mesh 2.0 is limited connection to the first 6 riders connecting to the group mesh. Open mesh I don't understand the use of it, they should work on connection method and not selling unusable options for riding... How many times are 24 riders at the same time? did some one test the limit of mesh connections on borh systems and how they connect?

[@cruisemansgarage]

In Mesh 2.0, every Mesh connection starts in Open Mesh. Then, if you want to, you can create a private group Mesh from those that are connected. Or, at least that is the way I read it.