The XCTRacer Mini is disruptive technology. It is the fastest response, most sensitive, rarely if ever needs charging because of the solar cell.

You don't have to connect to a phone. Either way having a spare battery and charging cable is advisable if you fly xc.

Either way, the XCTracer can free you from proprietary hardware/software. If you pick up any modern Android phone you can use XCTrack for free and still have the latest high power processing and amazing screens. The modern Android phones don't need to connect to a vario because they already have good GPS. Over the Black Friday weekend you can get a Moto G power for under $200.00 unlocked and use it without a sim. Upload your flights to XContest with a single click. Use the camera to take the QR code at comps to copy the task. If you use the XCTracer independently from the Android you also have two independent tracklogs.