Had both. Multiple units of each brand. Cardo Edge wins hands down. For all the reasons you said. For me, the big item was Cardo voice actually works. Screamed myself hoarse on all my Senas. The end.👌
Sir take a bow. A very well done comparison of both units. I used to user from their inception with the SMH range up until the 50S when the battery packed it in after a couple of months outside the end of warranty and they said"...oh you'll just have to but another unit'. I won't tell you what I said to them but that was the straw that broke the camels back and I bought a Cardo Edge and fitted it to my second Nolan N70-2 helmet. I haven't looked back. as far as the sena 50S goes I bought a cheap and nasty chinese battery on eBay, watched a UA-cam video on how to replace the 50S battery and I was back in the game using it on my main helmet. Mind you when the sena finally packs it in I won't be replacing it with another sena unit. they have done their dash with me. The Cardo Edge is a more enjoyable unit to use anyway and I can still connect via Bluetooth with my mates who still use sena's. As I said a great video and keep em' coming and a BIG thumbs 👍 up. Cheers.
Nicely done! We went with the Cardo. Calls, music and radio are very good quality in helmet. Comms are very good too, but they don't get the range claimed of a mile. If they do drop connection they did reconnect quickly. If you're with someone else or a group, it it very effective for conversations and letting your riding friends know what your or their intentions are. The JBL speakers do a good job, even at speed, with communications and music. Don't use the jog wheel for volume adjustments, etc, prefer the voice commands. Really like the magnetic mount, so convenient. Bluetooth works well Google, Bixby and Siri.
I have had all the Senas and they all died from rain. Just picked up the Cardo. By far that Cardo has been so much better. Louder by far and no rain issues.
Good presentation. Thank you. I started with Cardo over ten years ago, but then went Sena because the communicator was integrated into my next two helmets. As per your assessment, both brands do the job, but I decided to go back to Cardo a few years ago for the majority of reasons you listed. Packtalk Black is what I have now (I have the 2nd helmet kit as well) and I am entirely satisfied.
A nice option to deal with the cross brand Mesh connection is to use a Sena +Mesh adapter. This way, as a Cardo user, you don't need to keep in mind to stay close to the Sena mate you are bridging with. And when you meet a group of Sena Mesh riders, you don't need to find one to pair with. Just switch on the +Mesh that you used to have paired already and that stay with you and done. This way you can even use the benefits of the Mesh communication in a mixed group of DMC and Sena Mesh, being able to freely move and change position.
That's an excellent solution! The only thing is that you'd be better off using Sena's MeshPort Blue.. It turns any brand of Bluetooth coms device (or headset - including earbuds like Airpods) into Mesh devices. +Mesh is only for Sena Bluetooth products; it lets them join the Mesh network. :)
@@LexAlbrechtx37 as long as you try to connect something else than a Cardo, you are right. But if you connect the Cardo to the MeshPort Blue, then you connect it as a second phone or GPS. And then you might have side effects regarding the audio priorities. If you have a Cardo and connect it to the +Mesh, then it's really an intercom connection and it is treated like any other intercom device. Beside the fact, that the +Mesh is cheaper than the MeshPort Blue. So if you have a Cardo, then I would definitely go for the +Mesh. If you want to use any other device or want to be flexible what device to use, than the MeshPort Blue is the right pick.
Also, I am reading that Cardo recently released a firmware update that allows adding Sena easier via Mesh (only downside mentioned is that music cannot be shared to the Sena devices with this method).
A few months ago we (7 riders) got us 3x2 Cardo Edges and one AGV Tourmodular with Intercom. And what can I say - it was the best investment in the last years. We all got it installed in our helmets, and the one thing this video is not really telling us and that is the most important feature in our opinion: "Gapless, nearly lossless and nearly latency free noisecancelling", best voice-quality at highest effective group-range (we had around 5km between the fist and last rider in our private group. The next thing: it is easier and faster to connect, no trouble with the connection sequence on BMW and super quick reconnect. None of us are willing to get back to Sena by now.
Harman is the parent company for both Harman kardon and JBL, so I understand why you couldn't hear a difference. I'm pretty sure that it is the exact same speaker, just with different branding. Fun fact there are even more well-known brands in the Harman family and Harman is owned by Samsung.
I got a Sena 20S a few years ago and it was biggest POS based on not being able to do updates and software/app was from the dark ages. Going to get Cardo next.
I recently bought the Sena 50s. The voice commands went downhill from my previous Sena 30. It rarely works no matter how I try. Learning the switch controls is a must. The sound is great though. Ext speaker port was a must have for me as I use in ear plugs with speakers on long rides. Sena has a smaller version of the 50 that excludes that port.
Awesome critic. My Sena wifi didn't work out of the box for firmware update either. It just wouldn't recognize my wifi (Starlink). Had to update via PC. As you said, sound can be complicated by your helmet. I bought a HJC i71 and when I close the shield the wind comes from the bottom and makes some awful gurgling sounds. I had to open the shield slightly to get proper sound. Going back to the dealer to exchange it. Update: It is the top vent on the i71, you open it at high speed, and it gets obnoxiously noisy. Unbelievable!
Hi, i recently got a HJC F71 and been debating between going with Integrated B50 (made by sena and comparable to 50r I think), and a Cardo, did you ever consider the Integrated? Been really torn between trying the integrated or going straight Cardo Edge 😅
I have been lots of huge thunderstorms with no issues with Sena 50s, someone I knew had his mic in front of mouth vent which got soaked and caused probs
Great review and helpful in the comparison. From my research it appears really helpful to buy what your motorcycle peeps are running. These are both great units.
I've seen a thing about this before and they recommended just bluetooth connection to a walkie talkie or something that way everyone share a channel more distant more people
im bias, i run a sena i did all the work, and i mean, all the work, and the big thing, and something not touched on in your review at all, how you interact with it that big old jog wheel makes it soooooooo much easier to find, and adjust volume, im sure that, thinner gloves, and time you would get the hang of it, but thin or thick gloves, it is easier to work the sena, and if youre riding a vibey, bike, or its really cold, again, so much easier to use the sena over the cardo i know thats not important to everyone, some people think shirt, shorts, thongs, helmet, is all fine safety wise too
If you ride with limited or no people the HD spirit is the best bang for buck unit. The buttons can be a little unresponsive at times but overall the sound is great. I have it on one helmet and the new srl3 sena on another and the audio is as good as the srl3 and actually gets louder. I did buy the edge but sent it back as the voice commands were crap. The new srl3 voice commands are much better as long as you say hey seena and not hey Sennar, it's an aussie thing and from your kiwi accent it'd be the same deal.
I have the cheapest Sena you can buy. I think it's the Sena SMH5. I want a really good (the best) communication system next year. What is the best Cardo system on the market right now? I looked and you can get the Bold, Edge, Slim, Neo, Custom... I don't know which one to buy.
Missing the main part - handling with gloves on my tour. I won´t use my phone during the ride and with gloves you won´t find the right buttons on the cardo easily. Regarding handling the cardo is no match for the sena and this is really important. Yes, there are some things the cardo does better but I would miss this nice wheel.....
the Cardo has a wheel... Im not sure how the dexterity in your fingers is, but i dont have a problem finding the buttons on the Cardo even with gloves, the buttons are raised up quite a bit so i can find them pretty well.. the Cardo also has a wheel for volume, and thats pretty easy to find.
Sena seems to be the only one doing helmet integrations. Latest models of HJC (RPHA 71, 91 etc) and Shoei (Air 3 and others) support their respective manufacturers custom units (HJC is the HJ21B, HJ50B), which are just Sena devices with different packaging, so they're fully compatible with Sena units. The new helmet designs also make it a bit clunky to fit the clip on type.
Downside to integrated units in helmets is as technology marches forward you are left behind. They are usually old technology used in these things as it is. I’ve never been a fan.
Who wants to buy my Sena 50S, brand new not even opened. I just bought a CVO Harley and part of the heavy price is that they give you one of these units. I already have a Cardo set up and now with two bikes I just bought the 2nd helmet upgrade kit. IM gonna sell that Sent fairly cheap, I think they are about $350 new.
It's funny to me that people see JBL and Harman Kardon as seperate, since they are highly related. HARMAN is the mother company and are involved with JBL production. It's literally the same speaker, or at least made by the same producer. Quality difference aside, Harman speakers are not necessarily better because they carry the Harman name. Good review though!
Great comparison between Cardo and Sena. I personally went the Cardo edge for many of the same reasons you described. I am trying to connect my Cardo edge to the CB radio on the Goldwing. I know Sena has a freewire bluetooth unit, that will connect to the Cardo, but I heard you can’t transmit through the Cardo, only receive. Any thoughts?
Your best bet with Cardo and Sena bridging is to have a sena and Cardo on the same bike. Yeah. If you really care about seamlessly combining the two different manufacturers because you really think rider intercom is important, you have to do it. Buy one of the other manufacturers units. If you ride Cardo, you have to buy a Sena unit. (20S EVO for BT intercom or a 30S or better for Sena mesh) If you ride Sena, you have to buy a Cardo unit. (A PackTalk will do the job) Both of them need to be with you, but only one of them needs to be mounted. The other can just be in a pocket or tank bag. That way, the two units are never apart, and the bridge won't drop.
I welcome you to show me where it states “Active Noise cancellation” in the specs. Because it didn’t have it when I tested it, and it doesn’t have the hardware required to do such a thing. I assume you are confusing noise cancellation with sound pass through which the 50s does have, though it doesn’t work very well.
I have a review on the Fodsports FX6 coming. Spoiler alert, it’s not flash. Their build quality is very average, sound is not flash, about the only good thing about them is the price. You get what you pay for.
Great video. I'm tied to the Sena because I have their Firewire but wanted to see the difference between the two. Water resistance is a concern. How do you feel about using some dielectric grease on the contact pad?
@@MotoNZ Dielectric grease is that stuff on the end of light bulbs from your car (or bike) to keep water out and it from corroding. The Firewire is a dongle that converts Harleys system to wireless. They have one for the Goldwing also. I did call Sena tech and they said no problem using dielectric grease.
JBU and Harmon Kardon are owned by the same parent company. JBL is owned by Harmon International. Additionally, Harmon International is owned by Samsung.
Cardo does not have mesh in the sense that everyone can connect in a group ride without pairing. Cardo is for solo riders and Sena for people that have friends.
Care to elaborate? What problems are you experiencing? There were some reported bugs with the last firmware update, but in my experience these have been fixed… What firmware version are you running?
I had the Edge and now have the Sena 50s. The Edge is better. The only reason I got the 50s is because the group I now ride with is all Sena, and the cross-compatibility BT mode sucks so much. I think it's awful that Sena won't just work with Cardo on making the MESH cross compatible. They can do it, they choose not to. That said, if you're ever in a situation like I was trying to make a Cardo work with Sena, just ditch it and get the Sena. It is so easy to pair them, and the usability between the two isn't that big of a deal when you're talking about how much time you're saving trying to pair across brands.
Much the same. The 50R is exactly the same as the 50S apart from 2 main deferences. 50R has no click wheel, and is a solid mount to the helmet with wires coming out of it directly. In our experience it has better water resistance given it has no connectors between the unit and the mount. Other than that, operation and feature set are the same as the 50S
I just want to communicate with my passenger- i currently just have units with bluetooth, is it worth upgrading to mesh? Is mesh just as clear as bluetooth? Also, Is JBL better sounding then HK?
The JBL and HK speakers are better then the crap both companies used to supply, but the helmet and installation has more to do with the sound of the speakers the speakers themselves selves. Of its you and your pillion then Bluetooth is fine. But you are limited with how many other people you can connect with. Mesh means it’s almost unlimited connections via daisy chains. Or 16 in one group. DMC2.0 sounds better as it’s wide band audio. But you have to look at the features available and decide what you want. You may find that you and your pillion would be perfectly fine with a couple of Spirit HD intercoms, or a couple of freecom x2 or x4.
If you use Cardo (my experience with mesh) there is no noise when no one is speaking, witch I find quite annoying on the Bluetooth ones. It's like it's closes the channel and you got complete silence when no one is speaking. It's also a lot clearer to hear each other on Cardo because of that, not so much interference noises, just clear voices. You can also play music while the connection to other riders or passenger is open. So when no one is speaking, you can jam to your own favorite songs. Not like in a car where you are arguing about what radio channel you listen to.
They sent me the units for review separately. They didn’t pay me for a good review. They also didn’t send me the units for the purpose of a comparison.
Everyone knows JBL is a Harman Kardon owned brand, and Samsung owned both brands right? So basically probably the same speakers with a different label slapped on it?
Don't think Cardo is against integrated solutions, I simply belive Sena is better at collaborating with the helmet partners. But yes, loss for cardo. I want cardo, but Sena wins on integration on all high end helmets. Shohei, Schubert, HJC etc...
@@kokilimonke Cool, I think LS2 also have an inbuilt solution. I forgot about AGV, is that Cardo solution custom for AGV? AGV is very much high end as well, it's just that I have been focusing on quiet modular helmets lately, so slipt my mind :P
@@Aquadug my helmet is a AGV tourmodular, it's a really quiet modular helmet. Really good Cardo integration with buttons on the side. Only complaint is that it gets a bit hot on really hot days, could have a little better ventilation. But would probably be more noisy then. I use a Arai tour X4 on the hottest days.
@@kokilimonke nice, was not aware about it. Looks like it is some kind of old model as it is based on BT 4.1 and no mesh :( Let's hope Cardo will make them again ;)
Two issues that I have with them : 1) I just want good range and simplicity; basic bike to bike communication. It has been a while since I checked but, in order to get the best range, you have to buy the model with all of the extra digital garbage that make using them far too complex. 2) Battery replacement. On my older Cardo, you could not replace the battery so, after 3 years, you had to throw it away and buy a new one. I hope some of this has changed. So, do your homework and see what is important to you before buying.
3 years in and battery life on the both the 50S and the edge is still good. Once paired, both units reconnect to their previous groups every time they’re in range. Pretty simple to use.
@@MotoNZ I would agree until one has a brain fart which does happen occasionally and connects to FM radio or cell. But generally reliable comm's. If 3 years for battery is normal, then they should be replaceable.
I don't believe it's possible to have IP7 protection without a sealed in battery. To me that's worth not having the option to replace the battery. Besides, in 5 years, when the thing finally dies, there's going to be better tech available.
All done with this video at 1:40. "The units don't talk to each other in Mish mode, so I guess it comes down to "what are your mates using?". Do we really need to hear any more about "Mish"?
@@MotoNZ Nope it's not. Have the 50S and 30K and imo the 30k is better. I have no experience with Cardos, yet I bet Cardo is better in basically everything. Also the software of sena is a pain in the ass. Everything is couple of years old, and there still is no usefully phone app, just a dozen spread over the appstore and not a single one works without failures. With updating this shit I won't even start. Still mad at myself for buying the Senas, even tho the guy in the shop said take the cardo, it's even slimmer and doesn't look like a giant brike of the side of your helmet. But Sena is, at least still in Europe the most well known brand.
Cracks me up every time he says MISH. Never had a Sean so can’t compare but from what I’ve heard and the massive size of the Sean I’ll stick with Cardo. Even though voice commands turn “radio on” when I’m not even speaking English 😂. I call her Barbra and I think she craves my attention… happens at least once a ride.
Cardo turning the radio on randomly is a common issue all over the world. in my experience it will happen half a dozen times on day then not again for about a month, then randomly happen again. MISH, MESH, MASH, haha its all the same thing right?
@@MotoNZ My friend turned voice commands off. I'm willing to live with it, poor Barbra (Cardo) just wants attention. MISH, MESH the same MASH goes with Bangers 😁 🍻
I started with a sena 20s. It was reasonably OK. The bike to bike connection was fairly unreliable. A 30K was bought for the Mesh connection. Yay, much better. Until the unit bricked itself. Sena replaced unit. Second unit was intermittently shit. Replaced again. Worked OK then went to shit. Stupidly but mainly because the people I ride with have sena , I bought the 50s. It has been nothing but trouble from day one. I have just taken the plunge and ordered the cardo edge. I will never buy another sena product.
The Cardo looks dated and the wiring is not clean.. I see you had to apply electrical tape to keep the Cardo's wiring neat vs the Sena which does a better job of hiding the wiring. I have the Sena 50s and the sound quality is not great.. sounds like a cheap set of headphones in my full face helmet. I might try the Cardo Edge.
Due to where i placed the adhesive mount on this particular helmet, yes the cable run was a little long for my liking on the outside shell of the helmet, so i decided to tape it down. not really required. When I tried the 50S on this helmet (Arai XD4) it stuck out a lot more because it needed to be around the bottom lip of the shell. the shape of the helmet meant it didn't fit overly well. RE: Cardo looking dated, that open to each persons own opinion. I personally prefer the smaller form factor of the Packtalk Edge over the 50S. I would recommend giving Cardo a try. as I pointed out in the video, the Cardo units are IP67 rated, where the Sena units are not. they say they're waterproof, but without an IP rating and guarantee, its a lot of money to spend.
I've found Sena to be total shite, has never worked properly. My last unit just died, it was the integrated one for the new Schuberth C5 - way too quiet, the remote on the helemt was powered by a coin battery that went flat really quickly, the boom mic was annoying... and it stopped working after 6 months. The Sena I had before that - the app never worked. Considering how expensive these units are, it's just amazing how bad they are. I'm hoping the Cardo replacement will be better.
@@MotoNZby the way very good review, touched all the bases. As for water resistance, sufficient water will kill a Sena. Was riding in the rain with a fellow rider, his 20s died never to return. There’s also a very good demo a chap puts a packtalk and Sena in. Glass of water each. The Sena lasted about 20minutes the cardo never flinched. Interestingly enough a group I rode with all had one sort of Sena or other. When I went into helmet com I chose packtalk. A bit of scoffing occurred. Interesting how each time we met up one or more of them had switched to the packtalk. 😊
This is no comparission. Sena is absolute shite. Had a 50S for 1 week and straight back to the shop for a refund. Conracted Citizens Advive and they helped.....had a cardo ever since and love it
Correct, both companies sent me the product for their respective reviews and testing. They have no input into the video other than supplying the product. They have no control over what I say, and neither company was informed I was producing a comparison video.
After a year of issues, replacements and firmware updates, I'm getting rid of my Sena 50R units. Nothing but problems: connection isssues, battery life issues, voice commands that don't work when you try to use them, but will start working whwnn i'm talking to my pillion. Not to mention terrible sound and not water resistant. Like really? Over priced peace of tech junk!
Many things have an impact on the user experience. mic position is possibly the biggest issue when it comes to using voice commands. I dont use them often myself.
Never go Sena. I did due to Neo Tech helmet and would have made completely different choice if I'd known more. Sena customer support sticks and have never been ablebto answer a simple question first time....or any time. Sena is very difficult to connect to other brands. In fact never have been able to with friends Intafones. Sound quality very poor. There's a very annoying, loud and painful system accept noise which I can't turn off and guess what customer support hasn't helped. Just stay away unless all riders in your group have Sena.
Hi there, Thanks for watching. I have a stack of other videos up showing the audio quality recorded using both Sena and Cardo direct to camera. mEsh? mEEsh? not sure what you're getting at... assume its a dig at my Kiwi accent? Pants? Who has time for pants?
Thats a very uninformed and one eye'd opinion. Cardo have introduced the Packtalk Custom, but never removed any features from the Packtalk Edge or Neo. The Packtalk Custom still has bluetooth and DMC2 connection without paying for a subscription. and is great for users who want a lower price point and not always need the features included in the subscription. But thanks for watching. ua-cam.com/video/rHu--qnPYHk/v-deo.html
I highly doubt they will take the edge and Neo off the market and put all their eggs in the custom basket. It’s simply a cheaper option for those who don’t need all the options. Let’s be less pessimistic about this.
@MotoNZ it was absolutely a testbed to see what they could get away with. If they really cared about the people who wanted limited fearures, they would have charged very little for the custom and let the monthly residuals pay for the initial loss and recoup. That would have actually been a far more successful model. As for pessimissim about it, it's not just me. The backlash for the subscription based service was swift and intense. I can only hope that cardo took the community outrage to heart. Just look at the comments for any of the videos about the custom.
Had both. Multiple units of each brand. Cardo Edge wins hands down. For all the reasons you said. For me, the big item was Cardo voice actually works. Screamed myself hoarse on all my Senas. The end.👌
I had 2 Sena's (one for HJC and the other for Shoei GT Air 3) and ended up replacing by Cardo Freecom 4X out of despair and frustration.
Sir take a bow. A very well done comparison of both units. I used to user from their inception with the SMH range up until the 50S when the battery packed it in after a couple of months outside the end of warranty and they said"...oh you'll just have to but another unit'. I won't tell you what I said to them but that was the straw that broke the camels back and I bought a Cardo Edge and fitted it to my second Nolan N70-2 helmet. I haven't looked back. as far as the sena 50S goes I bought a cheap and nasty chinese battery on eBay, watched a UA-cam video on how to replace the 50S battery and I was back in the game using it on my main helmet. Mind you when the sena finally packs it in I won't be replacing it with another sena unit. they have done their dash with me. The Cardo Edge is a more enjoyable unit to use anyway and I can still connect via Bluetooth with my mates who still use sena's. As I said a great video and keep em' coming and a BIG thumbs 👍 up. Cheers.
Thanks for watching.
Glad you found a unit you like. The Edge is a great unit
Nicely done! We went with the Cardo. Calls, music and radio are very good quality in helmet. Comms are very good too, but they don't get the range claimed of a mile. If they do drop connection they did reconnect quickly. If you're with someone else or a group, it it very effective for conversations and letting your riding friends know what your or their intentions are.
The JBL speakers do a good job, even at speed, with communications and music. Don't use the jog wheel for volume adjustments, etc, prefer the voice commands.
Really like the magnetic mount, so convenient. Bluetooth works well Google, Bixby and Siri.
Yep, we have tested Cardo also. Check out other videos. 👍
This has got to be the best, most objective and factual comparison of these two devices. Nice one 👍
Had both, Sena seems to work better for me. Faster charging, longer battery life. great sound and communication.
SENA is trash!
Just beautifully done! Thanks so much!
I have had all the Senas and they all died from rain. Just picked up the Cardo. By far that Cardo has been so much better. Louder by far and no rain issues.
at 9:10 you said about Cardo, "Somebody's in charge". New with the Edge and DMC 2.0 no one has to be in charge of the mesh connection
In my experience one person still has to initiate the group, and others join.
Excellent vid, great info for those looking to make a purchase!
Good presentation. Thank you. I started with Cardo over ten years ago, but then went Sena because the communicator was integrated into my next two helmets. As per your assessment, both brands do the job, but I decided to go back to Cardo a few years ago for the majority of reasons you listed. Packtalk Black is what I have now (I have the 2nd helmet kit as well) and I am entirely satisfied.
A nice option to deal with the cross brand Mesh connection is to use a Sena +Mesh adapter. This way, as a Cardo user, you don't need to keep in mind to stay close to the Sena mate you are bridging with. And when you meet a group of Sena Mesh riders, you don't need to find one to pair with. Just switch on the +Mesh that you used to have paired already and that stay with you and done.
This way you can even use the benefits of the Mesh communication in a mixed group of DMC and Sena Mesh, being able to freely move and change position.
Good point. Thanks.
That's an excellent solution! The only thing is that you'd be better off using Sena's MeshPort Blue.. It turns any brand of Bluetooth coms device (or headset - including earbuds like Airpods) into Mesh devices. +Mesh is only for Sena Bluetooth products; it lets them join the Mesh network. :)
@@LexAlbrechtx37 as long as you try to connect something else than a Cardo, you are right. But if you connect the Cardo to the MeshPort Blue, then you connect it as a second phone or GPS. And then you might have side effects regarding the audio priorities. If you have a Cardo and connect it to the +Mesh, then it's really an intercom connection and it is treated like any other intercom device. Beside the fact, that the +Mesh is cheaper than the MeshPort Blue. So if you have a Cardo, then I would definitely go for the +Mesh. If you want to use any other device or want to be flexible what device to use, than the MeshPort Blue is the right pick.
Also, I am reading that Cardo recently released a firmware update that allows adding Sena easier via Mesh (only downside mentioned is that music cannot be shared to the Sena devices with this method).
I’ve never found a use for the music sharing function anyway
A few months ago we (7 riders) got us 3x2 Cardo Edges and one AGV Tourmodular with Intercom. And what can I say - it was the best investment in the last years. We all got it installed in our helmets, and the one thing this video is not really telling us and that is the most important feature in our opinion: "Gapless, nearly lossless and nearly latency free noisecancelling", best voice-quality at highest effective group-range (we had around 5km between the fist and last rider in our private group. The next thing: it is easier and faster to connect, no trouble with the connection sequence on BMW and super quick reconnect. None of us are willing to get back to Sena by now.
Harman is the parent company for both Harman kardon and JBL, so I understand why you couldn't hear a difference. I'm pretty sure that it is the exact same speaker, just with different branding.
Fun fact there are even more well-known brands in the Harman family and Harman is owned by Samsung.
I got a Sena 20S a few years ago and it was biggest POS based on not being able to do updates and software/app was from the dark ages. Going to get Cardo next.
Got the 30k and it is the same pos. Ungodly updating process with constant issues, despite buying the wifi station.
Thank you for the review. Going with the Cardo upon your review
I recently bought the Sena 50s. The voice commands went downhill from my previous Sena 30. It rarely works no matter how I try. Learning the switch controls is a must. The sound is great though. Ext speaker port was a must have for me as I use in ear plugs with speakers on long rides. Sena has a smaller version of the 50 that excludes that port.
Thanks for your feedback.
Just fyi - When it comes to the ability to plug in your own earphones... all Cardo models come with this functionality.
@@MotoNZ The Cardo is listed as having no aux headphone output?
The plug the speakers connect to is a standard 3.5mm headphone jack.
@@MotoNZ Oh I get you now. You unplug the speakers and plug in the headset. ta.
Awesome critic. My Sena wifi didn't work out of the box for firmware update either. It just wouldn't recognize my wifi (Starlink). Had to update via PC. As you said, sound can be complicated by your helmet. I bought a HJC i71 and when I close the shield the wind comes from the bottom and makes some awful gurgling sounds. I had to open the shield slightly to get proper sound. Going back to the dealer to exchange it. Update: It is the top vent on the i71, you open it at high speed, and it gets obnoxiously noisy. Unbelievable!
Hi, i recently got a HJC F71 and been debating between going with Integrated B50 (made by sena and comparable to 50r I think), and a Cardo, did you ever consider the Integrated?
Been really torn between trying the integrated or going straight Cardo Edge 😅
Nice to be able to keep in contact with who you're riding with
Maybe you should compare the asmax F1, it's an outsider but very interesting 😊
I have been lots of huge thunderstorms with no issues with Sena 50s, someone I knew had his mic in front of mouth vent which got soaked and caused probs
Hey, thanks for watching, sounds like you got lucky.
Great review and helpful in the comparison. From my research it appears really helpful to buy what your motorcycle peeps are running. These are both great units.
Still a great video man.
Thank you for it! 🤝🏻💪🏻
There is no comparison Mate, Cardo is far superior than Sena!
Please tell me this is from personal experience so I don’t have to watch a 16 minute video on how much money I need to spend
I've seen a thing about this before and they recommended just bluetooth connection to a walkie talkie or something that way everyone share a channel more distant more people
Great honest review
Do the Cardo and Sena apps have CarPlay versions of their apps? It would be easier to manage these on my CarPlay compatible screen mounted on my bike.
No they don’t.
im bias, i run a sena
i did all the work, and i mean, all the work, and the big thing, and something not touched on in your review at all,
how you interact with it
that big old jog wheel makes it soooooooo much easier to find, and adjust volume, im sure that, thinner gloves, and time you would get the hang of it, but thin or thick gloves, it is easier to work the sena, and if youre riding a vibey, bike, or its really cold, again, so much easier to use the sena over the cardo
i know thats not important to everyone, some people think shirt, shorts, thongs, helmet, is all fine safety wise too
If you ride with limited or no people the HD spirit is the best bang for buck unit. The buttons can be a little unresponsive at times but overall the sound is great. I have it on one helmet and the new srl3 sena on another and the audio is as good as the srl3 and actually gets louder. I did buy the edge but sent it back as the voice commands were crap. The new srl3 voice commands are much better as long as you say hey seena and not hey Sennar, it's an aussie thing and from your kiwi accent it'd be the same deal.
Yep. We have covered the full Cardo line up in previous videos.
I'm confused as too whether you like the cardo or sena better
I have the cheapest Sena you can buy. I think it's the Sena SMH5. I want a really good (the best) communication system next year. What is the best Cardo system on the market right now? I looked and you can get the Bold, Edge, Slim, Neo, Custom... I don't know which one to buy.
Don’t buy the bold or slim.
Buy the edge or neo.
@@MotoNZthanks sir! Quite helpful!
Sena 60S
Missing the main part - handling with gloves on my tour. I won´t use my phone during the ride and with gloves you won´t find the right buttons on the cardo easily. Regarding handling the cardo is no match for the sena and this is really important. Yes, there are some things the cardo does better but I would miss this nice wheel.....
the Cardo has a wheel...
Im not sure how the dexterity in your fingers is, but i dont have a problem finding the buttons on the Cardo even with gloves, the buttons are raised up quite a bit so i can find them pretty well.. the Cardo also has a wheel for volume, and thats pretty easy to find.
Sena seems to be the only one doing helmet integrations. Latest models of HJC (RPHA 71, 91 etc) and Shoei (Air 3 and others) support their respective manufacturers custom units (HJC is the HJ21B, HJ50B), which are just Sena devices with different packaging, so they're fully compatible with Sena units. The new helmet designs also make it a bit clunky to fit the clip on type.
Downside to integrated units in helmets is as technology marches forward you are left behind. They are usually old technology used in these things as it is.
I’ve never been a fan.
Great job on your review.
Great review, totaly agree.
thank u so much. really helped me decide between between the 2.
Glad I could help!
Who wants to buy my Sena 50S, brand new not even opened. I just bought a CVO Harley and part of the heavy price is that they give you one of these units. I already have a Cardo set up and now with two bikes I just bought the 2nd helmet upgrade kit. IM gonna sell that Sent fairly cheap, I think they are about $350 new.
It's funny to me that people see JBL and Harman Kardon as seperate, since they are highly related. HARMAN is the mother company and are involved with JBL production. It's literally the same speaker, or at least made by the same producer. Quality difference aside, Harman speakers are not necessarily better because they carry the Harman name. Good review though!
I love your accents. So refreshing hehe.
Great comparison between Cardo and Sena. I personally went the Cardo edge for many of the same reasons you described. I am trying to connect my Cardo edge to the CB radio on the Goldwing. I know Sena has a freewire bluetooth unit, that will connect to the Cardo, but I heard you can’t transmit through the Cardo, only receive. Any thoughts?
I made a couple analogue bluetooth adapters with Jabra bluetooth earpieces. They worked surprisingly well.
Nice review, I prefer using discord if you have data on your phone. Otherwise if there is no data, mesh will have to do.
Damn I’m torn…most all say cardobetter but group I ride w has seba
The biggest difference between the two units is "rain" not "range."
What do you recommend for moto vloging and recording group rides linking to camera?
Cardo. But you’ll need to record the group audio using the function in the app on your phone.
@MotoNZ I see, but will it all still be on the footage? Or does this "function" record separately on the phone?
Your best bet with Cardo and Sena bridging is to have a sena and Cardo on the same bike.
Yeah.
If you really care about seamlessly combining the two different manufacturers because you really think rider intercom is important, you have to do it.
Buy one of the other manufacturers units.
If you ride Cardo, you have to buy a Sena unit. (20S EVO for BT intercom or a 30S or better for Sena mesh)
If you ride Sena, you have to buy a Cardo unit. (A PackTalk will do the job)
Both of them need to be with you, but only one of them needs to be mounted. The other can just be in a pocket or tank bag.
That way, the two units are never apart, and the bridge won't drop.
Or on your pillion. 👍
What about noise cancelling? Cardo does not have that? Since on my bike with race only exhaust the Sena would be preferable I guess …
No intercom does noise cancelling
@@MotoNZ Sena50s has it in specs
I welcome you to show me where it states “Active Noise cancellation” in the specs. Because it didn’t have it when I tested it, and it doesn’t have the hardware required to do such a thing.
I assume you are confusing noise cancellation with sound pass through which the 50s does have, though it doesn’t work very well.
What about the Sena kit designed to go inside shoei GT helmets?
I dont know anyone who has had a good experience with those sorts of comms kits.
@@MotoNZ thanks
Can you review the Fod Sports FX10c ? They have Mesh and are like 115-165$ depending where you find them
I have a review on the Fodsports FX6 coming. Spoiler alert, it’s not flash. Their build quality is very average, sound is not flash, about the only good thing about them is the price. You get what you pay for.
Great video. I'm tied to the Sena because I have their Firewire but wanted to see the difference between the two. Water resistance is a concern. How do you feel about using some dielectric grease on the contact pad?
Not sure I know what Sena FireWire is. Nor have I any experience with dielectric grease sorry.
@@MotoNZ Dielectric grease is that stuff on the end of light bulbs from your car (or bike) to keep water out and it from corroding. The Firewire is a dongle that converts Harleys system to wireless. They have one for the Goldwing also. I did call Sena tech and they said no problem using dielectric grease.
Oops! I meant Freewire
I haven't bumped into a group who's connects using their cardos while on the other hand Sena everyone is chatting
JBU and Harmon Kardon are owned by the same parent company. JBL is owned by Harmon International. Additionally, Harmon International is owned by Samsung.
Cardo does not have mesh in the sense that everyone can connect in a group ride without pairing. Cardo is for solo riders and Sena for people that have friends.
This is blatantly incorrect.
Sena has open mesh and paired mesh.
Cardo don’t have open mesh, but they do have private/paired mesh, known as DMC.
That is what I just said. Lol!
Still have problems with Cardo software.....
Care to elaborate?
What problems are you experiencing?
There were some reported bugs with the last firmware update, but in my experience these have been fixed…
What firmware version are you running?
Thank you
Before finishing the video personally the Sena is more user friendly and has better software but Cardo has way better sound quality
Thanks for your input. good to know. :-)
I had the Edge and now have the Sena 50s. The Edge is better. The only reason I got the 50s is because the group I now ride with is all Sena, and the cross-compatibility BT mode sucks so much. I think it's awful that Sena won't just work with Cardo on making the MESH cross compatible. They can do it, they choose not to.
That said, if you're ever in a situation like I was trying to make a Cardo work with Sena, just ditch it and get the Sena. It is so easy to pair them, and the usability between the two isn't that big of a deal when you're talking about how much time you're saving trying to pair across brands.
Many thanks MotoNZ for this content. How does the Cardo Edge compare to Sena 50R?.
Much the same. The 50R is exactly the same as the 50S apart from 2 main deferences.
50R has no click wheel, and is a solid mount to the helmet with wires coming out of it directly.
In our experience it has better water resistance given it has no connectors between the unit and the mount.
Other than that, operation and feature set are the same as the 50S
Great job on the review. Funny accent that Middle Earth one.
Hey, thanks!
I just want to communicate with my passenger- i currently just have units with bluetooth, is it worth upgrading to mesh? Is mesh just as clear as bluetooth?
Also, Is JBL better sounding then HK?
The JBL and HK speakers are better then the crap both companies used to supply, but the helmet and installation has more to do with the sound of the speakers the speakers themselves selves.
Of its you and your pillion then Bluetooth is fine. But you are limited with how many other people you can connect with. Mesh means it’s almost unlimited connections via daisy chains. Or 16 in one group.
DMC2.0 sounds better as it’s wide band audio. But you have to look at the features available and decide what you want. You may find that you and your pillion would be perfectly fine with a couple of Spirit HD intercoms, or a couple of freecom x2 or x4.
If you use Cardo (my experience with mesh) there is no noise when no one is speaking, witch I find quite annoying on the Bluetooth ones. It's like it's closes the channel and you got complete silence when no one is speaking. It's also a lot clearer to hear each other on Cardo because of that, not so much interference noises, just clear voices. You can also play music while the connection to other riders or passenger is open. So when no one is speaking, you can jam to your own favorite songs. Not like in a car where you are arguing about what radio channel you listen to.
I've never had either brand fail due to getting wet.
Why would they send you the units for free if you weren't doing a review?
They sent me the units for review separately. They didn’t pay me for a good review.
They also didn’t send me the units for the purpose of a comparison.
I went Sena, because all my friends have Sena.
Everyone knows JBL is a Harman Kardon owned brand, and Samsung owned both brands right? So basically probably the same speakers with a different label slapped on it?
When Cardo will make integrated solutions?
Don't think Cardo is against integrated solutions, I simply belive Sena is better at collaborating with the helmet partners.
But yes, loss for cardo. I want cardo, but Sena wins on integration on all high end helmets. Shohei, Schubert, HJC etc...
I have a integrated cardo. I use a AGV helmet.
@@kokilimonke Cool, I think LS2 also have an inbuilt solution. I forgot about AGV, is that Cardo solution custom for AGV?
AGV is very much high end as well, it's just that I have been focusing on quiet modular helmets lately, so slipt my mind :P
@@Aquadug my helmet is a AGV tourmodular, it's a really quiet modular helmet. Really good Cardo integration with buttons on the side. Only complaint is that it gets a bit hot on really hot days, could have a little better ventilation. But would probably be more noisy then. I use a Arai tour X4 on the hottest days.
@@kokilimonke nice, was not aware about it.
Looks like it is some kind of old model as it is based on BT 4.1 and no mesh :(
Let's hope Cardo will make them again ;)
Two issues that I have with them : 1) I just want good range and simplicity; basic bike to bike communication. It has been a while since I checked but, in order to get the best range, you have to buy the model with all of the extra digital garbage that make using them far too complex. 2) Battery replacement. On my older Cardo, you could not replace the battery so, after 3 years, you had to throw it away and buy a new one. I hope some of this has changed. So, do your homework and see what is important to you before buying.
3 years in and battery life on the both the 50S and the edge is still good.
Once paired, both units reconnect to their previous groups every time they’re in range. Pretty simple to use.
@@MotoNZ I would agree until one has a brain fart which does happen occasionally and connects to FM radio or cell. But generally reliable comm's. If 3 years for battery is normal, then they should be replaceable.
I never said 3 years was normal. I said mine has lasted 3 years up to now and is still fine… should be good for a few years yet
I don't believe it's possible to have IP7 protection without a sealed in battery. To me that's worth not having the option to replace the battery. Besides, in 5 years, when the thing finally dies, there's going to be better tech available.
I could’ve sworn cardo and Sena could connect with each other?
They can, but via Bluetooth only and it’s a bit of a faff around. If the connection drops you’ll have to redo it.
All done with this video at 1:40. "The units don't talk to each other in Mish mode, so I guess it comes down to "what are your mates using?". Do we really need to hear any more about "Mish"?
If you don’t like my accent… then keep on trotting champ.
Sena 50s Harman/kardon is the best❤️
is it though?
@@MotoNZ Nope it's not. Have the 50S and 30K and imo the 30k is better.
I have no experience with Cardos, yet I bet Cardo is better in basically everything.
Also the software of sena is a pain in the ass.
Everything is couple of years old, and there still is no usefully phone app, just a dozen spread over the appstore and not a single one works without failures. With updating this shit I won't even start.
Still mad at myself for buying the Senas, even tho the guy in the shop said take the cardo, it's even slimmer and doesn't look like a giant brike of the side of your helmet.
But Sena is, at least still in Europe the most well known brand.
The update process is atrocius. When it even works. Never again Sena.
What do you sell more of? Cardo or Sena?
I don’t sell these. I just create content.
Harman kardon owns JBL there drivers are very similar...
Yes, Harmon Kardon is also an independent subsidiary of Samsung.
Cracks me up every time he says MISH. Never had a Sean so can’t compare but from what I’ve heard and the massive size of the Sean I’ll stick with Cardo. Even though voice commands turn “radio on” when I’m not even speaking English 😂. I call her Barbra and I think she craves my attention… happens at least once a ride.
Cardo turning the radio on randomly is a common issue all over the world.
in my experience it will happen half a dozen times on day then not again for about a month, then randomly happen again.
MISH, MESH, MASH, haha its all the same thing right?
@@MotoNZ My friend turned voice commands off. I'm willing to live with it, poor Barbra (Cardo) just wants attention.
MISH, MESH the same MASH goes with Bangers 😁 🍻
thanks a lot
No problem. Hope the video was helpful
can you say mesh?
Yep, can you?
Unless you drive only on Sunny Days, get the Cardo, it's warranty covers water damage. Sena does NOT!
I started with a sena 20s. It was reasonably OK. The bike to bike connection was fairly unreliable. A 30K was bought for the Mesh connection. Yay, much better. Until the unit bricked itself. Sena replaced unit. Second unit was intermittently shit. Replaced again. Worked OK then went to shit. Stupidly but mainly because the people I ride with have sena , I bought the 50s. It has been nothing but trouble from day one. I have just taken the plunge and ordered the cardo edge. I will never buy another sena product.
The Cardo looks dated and the wiring is not clean.. I see you had to apply electrical tape to keep the Cardo's wiring neat vs the Sena which does a better job of hiding the wiring. I have the Sena 50s and the sound quality is not great.. sounds like a cheap set of headphones in my full face helmet. I might try the Cardo Edge.
Due to where i placed the adhesive mount on this particular helmet, yes the cable run was a little long for my liking on the outside shell of the helmet, so i decided to tape it down. not really required.
When I tried the 50S on this helmet (Arai XD4) it stuck out a lot more because it needed to be around the bottom lip of the shell. the shape of the helmet meant it didn't fit overly well.
RE: Cardo looking dated, that open to each persons own opinion. I personally prefer the smaller form factor of the Packtalk Edge over the 50S.
I would recommend giving Cardo a try. as I pointed out in the video, the Cardo units are IP67 rated, where the Sena units are not. they say they're waterproof, but without an IP rating and guarantee, its a lot of money to spend.
cardo it is
How is the sound?
The sound of what exactly?
cardo edge all day
beter sound than bold and more polite than sena
I've found Sena to be total shite, has never worked properly. My last unit just died, it was the integrated one for the new Schuberth C5 - way too quiet, the remote on the helemt was powered by a coin battery that went flat really quickly, the boom mic was annoying... and it stopped working after 6 months. The Sena I had before that - the app never worked. Considering how expensive these units are, it's just amazing how bad they are. I'm hoping the Cardo replacement will be better.
The IP rating is the deal breaker for me, furthermore all these vendors need to agree on a universal mesh standard.
What annoy's me the most. Is these damn headset never pair up in a group. It's always a huge hastle.
I’ve not had a problem when everyone in the group has Cardo or Sena. The Nolan’s brands are generally shit
I will never buy another Sena after 2 expensive disasters.
Nice review thanks
No problem 👍
i got a sena AGV helmet ARK and it is shit at £300
It’s a brick: Sena yes / Cardo no.
Haha terrible rationale. The Sena is bigger than the Cardo.
@@MotoNZ which is why the Sena is a brick compared to the Cardo.
@@MotoNZby the way very good review, touched all the bases.
As for water resistance, sufficient water will kill a Sena. Was riding in the rain with a fellow rider, his 20s died never to return.
There’s also a very good demo a chap puts a packtalk and Sena in. Glass of water each. The Sena lasted about 20minutes the cardo never flinched.
Interestingly enough a group I rode with all had one sort of Sena or other. When I went into helmet com I chose packtalk. A bit of scoffing occurred. Interesting how each time we met up one or more of them had switched to the packtalk. 😊
cardo is the best
This is no comparission. Sena is absolute shite. Had a 50S for 1 week and straight back to the shop for a refund. Conracted Citizens Advive and they helped.....had a cardo ever since and love it
Interested to hear what issues you experienced
What was the issue with the sena
? neither of the companies know you’re making the video but they sent you the products for free…? What?
Correct, both companies sent me the product for their respective reviews and testing. They have no input into the video other than supplying the product. They have no control over what I say, and neither company was informed I was producing a comparison video.
Apparently Sena isn't waterproof, cardo is. Says it all really
Hey, thanks for watching.
As we mentioned in the video, Sena states their units are “water Resistant”
Cardo are IP67 rated.
After a year of issues, replacements and firmware updates, I'm getting rid of my Sena 50R units. Nothing but problems: connection isssues, battery life issues, voice commands that don't work when you try to use them, but will start working whwnn i'm talking to my pillion. Not to mention terrible sound and not water resistant. Like really? Over priced peace of tech junk!
Never have got the voice commands to work on my Cardo, tried sounding like a Yank, but the Kiwi accent must be too stronk!
Many things have an impact on the user experience. mic position is possibly the biggest issue when it comes to using voice commands.
I dont use them often myself.
Never go Sena. I did due to Neo Tech helmet and would have made completely different choice if I'd known more.
Sena customer support sticks and have never been ablebto answer a simple question first time....or any time.
Sena is very difficult to connect to other brands. In fact never have been able to with friends Intafones.
Sound quality very poor.
There's a very annoying, loud and painful system accept noise which I can't turn off and guess what customer support hasn't helped.
Just stay away unless all riders in your group have Sena.
I wish this video was in English...
What language is it in if not English?
I had cardo pack talk dual they were horrible . Never buying cardo again . I end up using decade old sena 10
Battery on cardo edge is very mediocre...
First time i rode in the rain my Sena 30K died! Utter crap and a waste of money.
My sena sucks ass.
1. Nice comparison (but would be nice to hear the difference in sound of the mic)
2. It's mEsh, not mEEsh
3. Please, put your pants on.
Hi there,
Thanks for watching.
I have a stack of other videos up showing the audio quality recorded using both Sena and Cardo direct to camera.
mEsh? mEEsh? not sure what you're getting at... assume its a dig at my Kiwi accent?
Pants? Who has time for pants?
@@MotoNZ Ok Thanks for the info, i will check them out!
Has Sena experimented with subscription-based sevices? No? Then Sena.
Thats a very uninformed and one eye'd opinion.
Cardo have introduced the Packtalk Custom, but never removed any features from the Packtalk Edge or Neo.
The Packtalk Custom still has bluetooth and DMC2 connection without paying for a subscription. and is great for users who want a lower price point and not always need the features included in the subscription.
But thanks for watching.
ua-cam.com/video/rHu--qnPYHk/v-deo.html
@@MotoNZ Anti-consumer practices are pervasive. If the Custom does well, it will become their business model.
I highly doubt they will take the edge and Neo off the market and put all their eggs in the custom basket. It’s simply a cheaper option for those who don’t need all the options. Let’s be less pessimistic about this.
@MotoNZ it was absolutely a testbed to see what they could get away with. If they really cared about the people who wanted limited fearures, they would have charged very little for the custom and let the monthly residuals pay for the initial loss and recoup. That would have actually been a far more successful model.
As for pessimissim about it, it's not just me. The backlash for the subscription based service was swift and intense. I can only hope that cardo took the community outrage to heart. Just look at the comments for any of the videos about the custom.
50's is not waterproof, end of review, 13 seconds.