Satellite vs Cellular vs LoRA?
LoRaWAN vs Cellular
A common question is which radio transmission technology you should use: LoRaWAN or cellular?
For most installations we recommend using our standard unit which transmits data via cellular service. A LoRaWAN is recommended in extremely remote locations where cellular service is not available.
| Satellite | Cellular | LoRa | |
| Best Use | Anywhere outdoors | Anywhere where cellular service is available | Remote areas, where cellular is unavailable |
| Battery Life* | (external solar) 3-5 years | (solar) 3-5 years | (solar) 3-5 years |
| Requires own gateway & network knowledge? | No | No | Yes, in most cases you must setup your own LoRa gateway |
| Range | Anywhere outdoors | Everywhere cell service is available | 2 miles rural, ½ mile or less urban |
| Secure | Extremely | Extremely | Somewhat |
| Wireless Signal susceptible to noise? | Minimal | Some | Yes |
| Can send bridge vibration data | No | Yes | No (due to limited payload size) |
| Multiple Sensors? | Limited | Yes | Maybe (limited payload size) |
| Works in very remote areas? | Yes | No (cellular coverage required) | Yes |
| Cost? | $1495 | $995 | $995 + gateway |
| Update Frequency |
*depends on environment of use. High temperature may shorten battery life
