For me, local text messaging is my primary reason for using and experimenting with off-grid messaging systems. For various reasons, as much as I like Meshtastic, the actual exchanging of messages is erratic around here, therefore I'm giving MeshCore a try here in the South West of England.
Both systems have advantages and disadvantages, so for the time being at least, I'll be running both simultaneously.
As I say in the video, please do read the Meshtastic documentation before rolling out routers and repeaters as the incorrect placement of such devices can have a VERY negative effect on the running of the mesh. Also look at the choice of speed as LongFast can be clogging things up in a heavy populated area.
Meshtastic's own advice:
https://meshtastic.org/blog/choosing-the-right-device-rolehttps://meshtastic.org/blog/why-your-mesh-should-switch-from-longfast#meshcore #meshtastic #offgridmessaging #shtfcomms #emergencycomms