Motorcycle riding took off during the COVID pandemic and is showing no signs of slowing. Last year, motorbike sales topped $60 million worldwide, the second-highest level ever.

Technological innovations have made riding both more enjoyable and safer. This includes advanced custom motorcycle helmets and motorcycle helmet communication systems. This has created a good problem to have: there are so many great ones to choose from, and it can be difficult to narrow them down.

If you are looking for the best Bluetooth motorcycle helmet system, keep reading. This article breaks down the distinctions between HJC SMART 21B and the 50B. It will help you determine which one is the right choice based on your riding goals and budget.

How They Are Similar

The HJC SMART 21B and 50B are both well-made and durable motorcycle communication systems that you can expect to function well for years. They each also come with a 12-month warranty and myriad features. Here are the main ones that they share.

Sound Quality

Both the HJC SMART 21B and the 50B are produced by SENA but have the HJC brand. SENA makes some of the highest-quality Bluetooth communication devices available today.

The 21B and 50B models have the same high-definition speakers. They both come with advanced noise control, which helps cut down on ambient noise while riding. Both systems come with HJC's boom-type microphone for a modular, open-face setup, as well as a wired mic for a non-modular, non-moveable chin bar.

Connectivity

The 21B and the 50B run Bluetooth 5.0 and above. They have a range of about one mile of open road. (Note that this can diminish slightly if there are objects or terrain obstructing the signal.)

Also, both devices have built-in FM radio. In addition to your phone, they can connect with MP3 players and GPS devices.

Both the 21B and the 50B have voice prompts. These tell you the functions as you scroll through them using controls.

Both the 21B and 50B connect with the HJC SMART application, available on both iPhone and Android devices. This will help set up the device configuration with the desired features and allow you to manage riding groups. The app also lets you set smart volume control parameters and manage the audio equalizer for dialing in sound preferences.

Setup and Compatibility

Both the 21B and the 50B are easy to install--you can do so in less than five minutes. Once in, the wires are completely concealed for a sleek, snag-free appearance.

The 21B and 50B are both compatible with the HJC RPHA line (the 31, 71, and 91), as well as the F71, F31, i71 and i91 helmets. All these have a built-in pocket in the back of the helmet to house the main battery pack.

They also have pockets for the attached HD speakers. (Note that the speakers are attached by a wiring harness and are not replaceable.) Both devices have manual control units.

The 21B and the 50B come with installation screws and an Allen wrench. Each device has a USB power and data cable.

Where They Differ

While they are both high-quality devices, there are a few distinctions between the HJC SMART 21B and the 50B. Here are the main differences to consider.

Controls

As with most motorcycle helmet communication systems, both the 21B and the 50B have manual control units. However, the 21B comes with only one unit, while the 50B comes with two. This allows you to carry out commands using either hand on the 50B.

Another big advantage of the 50B over the 21B is the availability of voice commands. This lets you make or receive calls, adjust the volume, or carry out other tasks while riding.

It also lets you access your phone's digital aids, like Siri or Google Assistant. Another very cool feature of the 50B is the ability to share music with other connected riders.

Group Size

A big distinction between the 21B and the 50B is the number of other riders with whom you can connect. With the 21B, the limit is four through the Bluetooth intercom.

While the 50B also features four-way Bluetooth, it adds the MESH system for expanded communication. This gives you a longer range and allows you to connect with a much larger group of riders (up to 15). So, if you are regularly riding with more than four companions with whom you need to communicate, the 50B offers a distinct advantage.

Note that the MESH intercom is brand-dependent, meaning everyone you communicate with must be using it. Whereas, with the standard Bluetooth intercom, you can engage with anyone using any type of Bluetooth device.

Run Time

One area where the 21B stands out over the 50B is the battery length. Since the 50B is more power-hungry, you will only get about 13 hours of run time out of it. The 21B, on the other hand, will give you upwards of 22 hours of operation.

Note that this assumes that you are utilizing the lowest power mode with the 21B and running MESH intercoms with the 50B. If you are using regular Bluetooth coms with the 50B, the run time will be much closer to the 22-hour mark.

Price

Another big difference between the 21B and the 50B in price. The 21B comes in at $220, while the 50B will cost you a bit more, at $350. 

Learn More About Different Motorcycle Helmet Communication Systems

Now that you understand the different features of the HJC Smart 21B vs. the 50B, you can determine which is right for you. Both offer great sound and performance, with distinct features and prices.

At XtremeHelmets.com, we want our customers to have the right equipment to improve riding enjoyment and safety. We offer the highest-quality motorcycle and off-road helmets, as well as other riding accessories and gear, like motorcycle helmet communication systems.

Take a look at our extensive online inventory of the best motorcycle helmets or reach out to us today with any questions you might have.