Maybe you missed it? Youyeetoo X1 Review
Introducing LoraSecret: An all-in-one, off-grid, LoRa-based, walkie-talkie-style device for secure mesh communication and messaging.
Recently, Hong Kong-based trading and hardware developer Youyeetoo announced “LoraSecrt” (note the spelling variation)—a Kickstarter project positioning itself as a “multi-functional emergency communication terminal” with claims of 10km direct range and 30km mesh networking capability, integrated solar charging, and offline GPS functionality. But with the campaign still in “launching soon” status (as of early 2026) and limited technical specifications publicly available, potential backers face a critical question: How much of this promise aligns with LoRa technology’s actual capabilities versus marketing aspiration?
This comprehensive article examines the technical realities of LoRa communication, distinguishes between direct range and mesh networking claims, analyzes regulatory constraints affecting real-world performance, and provides essential due diligence steps before supporting any off-grid communication Kickstarter project—including LoraSecrt.
A close peek at the LoraSecret
A brief look at the product
Main features:
- Built-in Flashlight.
- Built-in 10,000mAh battery.
- Lightweight at just 500g.
- Can be paired with a mobile phone via Bluetooth.
- Supports mobile app.
- Able to use offline maps.
- Can measure steps, routes, and walking distance.
- One-Tap navigation.
- Can be used as a solar-powered charger for your phone.
- wireless charging support.
External Design
As mentioned in the title, this device sports a Walkie-Talkie-style design and likely offers some water and dust resistance, though there’s no official confirmation yet. It’s also important to note that in off-grid mode, the device actually functions as a text messaging tool rather than a true Walkie-Talkie with voice capabilities.
LoRa – what’s that all about?
Understanding LoRa Technology: What It Can (and Cannot) Do
LoRa, short for Long Range, is a proprietary radio modulation method created by Semtech Corporation that allows low-power, long-distance wireless data transmission. It works in license-free sub-gigahertz ISM bands—433 MHz in Asia, 868 MHz in Europe, and 915 MHz in North America—offering impressive range thanks to its outstanding receiver sensitivity (as low as -148 dBm) and spread spectrum technology that helps fend off interference.
The main technical point is that LoRa is built for small data packets, not real-time voice. It’s typically used for things like:
- Environmental sensor readings (temperature, humidity).
- GPS coordinate transmission.
- Short text messages (under 240 bytes per packet).
- IoT device status updates.
Standard LoRa setups offer data rates ranging from 300 bps to 37.5 kbps, depending on the spreading factor. For comparison, traditional analog FM walkie-talkies send voice at about 12,000 bps continuously. This inherent bandwidth limit means that true “walkie-talkie” features like push-to-talk and instant voice would require either:
- Heavy voice compression with a noticeable delay, causing about 2–5 seconds of buffering.
- A hybrid device that uses LoRa for data transmission paired with a separate FM radio module for voice communication.
- The newer FLRC (Fast Long-Range Communication) modes on SX1280 chips trade some range for faster data rates.
Without confirmed specs from Youyeetoo, LoraSecrt’s real voice features are still uncertain. Backers should assume text or data messaging is the main dependable function unless the campaign clearly shows real-time voice in action with latency details.
The rising need for genuine off-grid communication
When cell towers go down during natural disasters, you’re deep in the wilderness with no signal, or festival crowds clog up local networks, reliable communication turns into a safety essential rather than a luxury. This growing need has sparked huge interest in LoRa (Long Range) technology devices that offer “off-grid” connectivity without relying on cell service or paying monthly fees.
Decoding the “10km Range” vs. “30km Mesh” Claims
The LoraSecrt Kickstarter preview page references both “10km off-grid communication” and “30km mesh” capabilities—a crucial distinction many consumers misunderstand.
Direct Range (Point-to-Point): The distance two devices communicate without intermediate relays. Realistic expectations:
- Urban environments: 300–800 meters (building penetration loss)
- Suburban areas: 1–3 kilometers (moderate obstructions)
- Rural/open terrain with line-of-sight: 5–8 kilometers (optimistic but achievable)
- Laboratory conditions with elevated antennas: 10+ kilometers (not representative of handheld use)
Mesh Networking Range: In a relay network, each device passes messages along for the others. With three devices spaced 5 km apart, you could theoretically connect points 10 km apart—but this comes with higher latency and a reliance on the middle devices staying powered and within range.
The so-called “30km mesh” setup would need about 4–6 well-placed intermediate devices—feasible for organized events or community projects, but not realistic for spur-of-the-moment two-person trips into the wilderness. Plus, mesh networks can be unreliable; if one relay device shuts down or moves, the whole chain falls apart.
Solar Power Integration: Practical Benefits and Limitations
LoraSecrt’s “solar power hub” addresses a genuine concern: running out of battery during extended off-grid adventures. However, it’s worth keeping expectations in check:
- Small integrated solar panels (typical 1–3W on handheld devices) require 6–10 hours of direct sunlight to fully recharge a 2000–3000mAh battery
- Cloud cover, forest canopy, or suboptimal panel angle reduces charging efficiency by 60–90%
- Solar primarily extends operational duration rather than enabling indefinite use
- Most practical use case: trickle-charging during daytime hikes to maintain battery for evening emergencies=
Regulatory Constraints That Directly Impact Performance
LoRa devices are bound by strict regional regulations that manufacturers can’t bypass—limitations often overlooked in marketing pitches.
Duty Cycle Limits (Europe): In the 868 MHz band, devices are restricted to a 1% duty cycle on certain sub-bands. This means a continuous 1-second transmission must be followed by 99 seconds of silence, making real-time voice communication impractical without breaking the rules.
Transmit Power Caps:
- Europe (868 MHz): 14 dBm (25 mW) EIRP maximum
- North America (915 MHz): 30 dBm (1W) with frequency-hopping requirements
- Asia (433 MHz): Varies significantly by country
Power limits directly set the maximum range. A device can’t legally boost its power to hit 10 km in urban areas—that’s a matter of physics, not just a tweak in software.
Frequency Band Fragmentation: A single hardware design can’t legally work worldwide. North American 915 MHz devices won’t operate in Europe’s 868 MHz band without different radio hardware. Before buying, it’s worth checking if LoraSecrt offers region-specific versions or compromises performance to meet the strictest global regulations.
Personal thoughts
According to the company, they have been working on this product for a year. This product is a great pick for emergency teams, hikers, and similar outdoor users. If it delivers on its promises, it could be a handy all-in-one emergency communication tool.
Overall, it’s better than nothing when you’re in an area with no signal, even if its actual range is just a few kilometers. That said, if you’d like to support and learn more about the Youyeetoo team and their project, you’re welcome to visit their Kickstarter page or reach out to them for business inquiries and questions through their official website.
