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You do not need to spend much to hear your sat nav, play music or talk to your pillion. These are the two most interesting budget Bluetooth intercoms, and each wins at something different.
Head to head
| Spec | Cardo Spirit HD | Midland BTX2 Pro S LR |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 7.6 | 7.8 |
| Sound | 8.0 | 7.2 |
| Range | 5.8 | 7.8 |
| Battery | 7.8 | 9.0 |
| Ease of use | 8.8 | 7.0 |
| Value | 9.0 | 9.0 |
| Mesh network | No | No |
| Max range (2 riders) | 600 m | 1,600 m |
| Talk time | 13 h | 23 h |
| Riders per group | 2 | 4 |
| Speakers | HD 40 mm | — |
| Water resistance | Water resistant | IPX6 |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 4.2 |
Highlighted in orange: the winner of each measurable spec. Manufacturer data.
Range: the Midland, by a mile
The Midland BTX2 Pro S LR (Long Range) claims up to 1.6 km between two bikes. The Cardo Spirit HD, around 600 m. If you want to talk to another bike, the Midland is clearly better.
Battery: the Midland
Up to 23 hours for the Midland against 13 hours for the Cardo. Both have plenty for a day, but the Midland lasts several days of normal use between charges.
Riders: the Midland
The Cardo connects 2 people. The Midland, up to 4 bikes in conference.
Sound and ease of use: the Cardo
The Cardo Spirit HD has 40 mm HD speakers with good sound for the money, Bluetooth 5.2, fast USB-C charging and updates from the app. It is one of the simplest intercoms to use. The Midland uses Bluetooth 4.2, older technology.
Verdict
- Solo (sat nav, music, calls) or two-up: Cardo Spirit HD. Simpler and better sound.
- With another bike or a small group: Midland BTX2 Pro S LR. More range, more battery, more riders.
More options in our motorcycle intercom guide.
