M5Stack C6L Unit is a small ESP32 LoRa communication module that is compatible with the Meshtastic network. It is a microcontroller integrating ESP32-C6 with an SX1262 LoRa transceiver and forms a highly versatile and efficient long-range low-power communication solution. In its essence, ESP32-C6 includes processing and connectivity and, as such, it supports 2.4 GHz WiFi 6 and the LoRa radio communication, providing an efficient data transmission over a long distance.
Key Features and Hardware Overview:
The module also has a number of built-in features in order to make it usable. It has an SSD1306 0.66-inch (64 x 48 pixels) monochrome display with real-time status updates, a programmable RGB LED (WS2812C), a buzzer, and a user push-button, which enables real-time feedback and interaction. To support wireless functionality, the C6L has 2.4 GHz WiFi and 868923 MHz LoRa SMA antenna connectors with a stable and reliable connection in other settings.
The M5Stack has also included an AW32901FCR over-voltage protection chip to guarantee the safety of the hardware and prevent power surges, which improves the reliability in the long term. The unit also has a HY2.0-4P expansion interface, which allows the attachment of other sensors or modules to a custom IoT project easily. It features LEGO-compatible mounting holes that allow for easy installation in various arrangements or enclosures.
Performance and Specifications:
C6L has good performance in terms of range and efficiency of communication. It can take up to +22 dBm transmit power and receiver sensitivity of -147 dBm, so it is suitable in outdoor and remote environments. The power consumption is low, and in sleep mode, the current consumption is down to 0.7 -0.9 mA. The small device is around 62 × 24 × 8 mm in size and is only about 13.6 g (without the antennas).
M5Stack C6L Unit used in Meshtastic is very suitable for projects that demand the use of private and decentralised LoRa mesh networks, like remote monitoring, outdoor communication, data collection of the environment and emergency communication devices.
Package Includes:
- 1 × C6L module
- 1 × 2.4 GHz SMA whip antenna
- 1 × 868 MHz SMA whip antenna
- 1 × 20 cm HY2.0-4P cable
As of now, the M5Stack C6L Unit for Meshtastic is priced at $22.90 on the official M5Stack store, though it is currently out of stock. Some resellers, like MTools Tec, list it for around $25.99 and offer it on backorder, while others in Europe show prices near €23.45 but also note limited availability. Most stores display a “Notify me” option instead of direct purchase, indicating that the unit is temporarily unavailable but expected to be restocked soon.
