
Choosing the right auto belay devices is critical for maximizing safety and throughput in your facility. Whether you run a high-traffic family entertainment center or an elite training gym, understanding the nuances of the TRUBLUE iQ series ensures you invest in the best equipment. This guide breaks down the key differences to help you decide.
The evolution of auto belay technology
Why choose magnetic braking?
Magnetic braking offers a contact-free solution that eliminates the friction and heat associated with mechanical systems. This technology ensures a consistent descent speed for both children and adults, regardless of their weight. Because there are no contacting parts to wear out, operators benefit from significantly lower maintenance costs and a longer device lifespan.
What makes the iQ series different?
The iQ series represents the next generation of smart auto belay devices, featuring a lighter and more durable design than previous models. These units are built on an IoT-ready platform, meaning they are future-proof and upgradeable as technology advances. A wider webbing nozzle also reduces wear, further extending the intervals between necessary maintenance.
Comparing the TRUBLUE models
Who is the TRUBLUE iQ for?
The standard TRUBLUE iQ is the workhorse for commercial facilities like climbing gyms, camps, and adventure parks. It replaces the original classic model, offering the same reliability with improved durability and a lighter form factor. It is the ideal choice for operators who need simple, safe, and efficient automated belaying for a wide range of user weights.
How does the TRUBLUE iQ+ change training?
The TRUBLUE iQ+ introduces “catch-and-hold” technology, allowing climbers to rest on the wall and project difficult routes. By pressing a button, the device holds the climber in place, transforming the auto belay into an autonomous training partner. This feature is perfect for gyms that want to offer premium training tools without requiring a human belayer.
When do you need the TRUBLUE SPEED?
The TRUBLUE SPEED is engineered specifically for speed climbing competitions and training. It features a high-velocity retraction spring that pulls in slack fast enough to keep up with world-record sprinters. While it maintains the gentle magnetic braking for descent, its retraction is optimized to meet IFSC standards for 10m and 15m events.
Comparison of auto belay devices
| Feature | TRUBLUE iQ | TRUBLUE iQ+ | TRUBLUE SPEED |
| Primary Use | Recreational climbing, FECs, Gyms | Route projection, Training, Gyms | Speed climbing, Competitions |
| Braking Tech | Magnetic Eddy Current | Magnetic Eddy Current | Magnetic Eddy Current |
| Catch-and-Hold | No (Upgradeable) | Yes (Built-in) | No |
| Retraction Speed | Standard | Standard | High Velocity (2.7s for 10m) |
| User Weight | 10 – 140 kg | 10 – 140 kg | 10 – 136 kg |
| Device Weight | ~15.9 kg (LT) | ~19 kg (LT) | ~18.5 kg |
| Future Proof | Yes (IoT Ready) | Yes (IoT Ready) | No |
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Product on sale
TRUBLUE iQ+ Auto Belay | Catch-and-Hold Projecting TechnologyPrice range: € 4.465,00 through € 5.157,00 Ex VAT -
Product on sale
TRUBLUE Speed Auto Belay | Competition-Grade Speed Climbing SystemPrice range: € 2.845,00 through € 3.360,00 Ex VAT -
Product on sale
TRUBLUE iQ Auto Belay | Intelligent Magnetic Descent SystemPrice range: € 2.845,00 through € 3.465,00 Ex VAT
Enhancing safety with smart accessories
How does the TRU-CLIP prevent errors?
The TRU-CLIP connector uses a sequenced connection system that forces the climber to attach correctly before the device releases. This curb-sided design minimizes the risk of clipping into the wrong harness loop or missing the clip entirely. It reduces the need for direct staff supervision, making it ideal for high-volume family entertainment centers.
What is the TRU-ALERT height sensor?
The TRU-ALERT is a sensor system that detects unclipped climbers and issues an immediate warning. If a climber ascends past 1.5 meters without being clipped in, the device provides an audio and visual alert. This automated vigilance acts as a second set of eyes, ensuring accidents are prevented before they can occur.
Investing in the correct auto belay devices not only protects your customers but also streamlines your daily operations. By selecting the right TRUBLUE model and pairing it with smart accessories like TRU-CLIP, you build a safer, more profitable business.
TRUBLUE Trade-In Program!
Receive a discount when you trade up your used auto belay for a TRUBLUE iQ or iQ+. Offer also applies to competitor devices.
Get you offer!
Frequently asked questions
Can the TRUBLUE iQ be upgraded later?
Yes, the standard TRUBLUE iQ is built on a modular platform. You can purchase the base model now and upgrade it to the iQ+ with catch-and-hold technology at a later date. This allows you to spread out your investment costs.
What is the retraction speed of the TRUBLUE SPEED?
The TRUBLUE SPEED retracts the webbing in approximately 2.7 seconds for a 10m wall. This rapid retraction ensures there is zero slack in the line, even for elite athletes climbing at world-record paces.
Is the TRU-CLIP compatible with all harnesses?
Yes, the TRU-CLIP is designed to work with standard climbing harnesses. Its sequenced locking mechanism prevents the climber from ascending unless the device is securely and correctly attached to the belay loop.
Do magnetic brakes wear out?
No, the magnetic braking system is contact-free. Because there are no friction pads or contacting parts to create drag, the braking mechanism does not wear out or fade over time, even with heavy use.
What happens if a climber forgets to clip in?
If you are using the TRU-ALERT height sensor, the system will sound an alarm once the climber reaches a height of 1.5 meters. This immediate feedback alerts both the climber and floor staff to correct the error instantly.
Dive Deeper: Exploring Auto Belay Technology with Expert Insights
Auto belays are transforming the world of indoor climbing, offering convenience and safety for climbers of all levels. But how exactly do they work, and what are the key considerations for using them? To learn more about the intricacies of auto belay technology and gain valuable insights from experts in the field, check out our additional resources below…
- Comparison of Auto Belay’s: what’s new in the TRUBLUE iQ series
- Using Technology to Make Your Climbing Gym Accessible and Inclusive
- A Closer Look at the Auto Belay System
- Next Generation Auto Belay – TRUBLUE iQ
- Every modern climbing gym should have these 5 features
- Everything You Need to Know about Buying Auto Belays
- Increase Revenue and Customer Satisfaction at Family Entertainment Centers
- Catch-and-Hold: What is it and how does it work?
- Leading the Way in profitable and safe climbing
- Why Family Entertainment Centers Trust TRUBLUE Auto Belays
- Creating Value for Customers by Using an Auto Belay
- TRUBLUE iQ+ World’s first catch-and-hold auto belay
- Drive Revenue and Customer Satisfaction with Auto Belays
- 7 Ways Magnetic Braking Is Better Than Friction
- No Belayer Necessary: Understanding Auto belays
- Competitive Advantage of an Auto Belay
- ROI at Climbing Walls and Family Entertainment Centers
- Auto-Belay and hands-free climbing challenges
- Why using Auto Belays Boosts your Business
- The Science of Eddy Current Magnetic Braking
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Product on sale
TRUBLUE iQ+ Auto Belay | Catch-and-Hold Projecting TechnologyPrice range: € 4.465,00 through € 5.157,00 Ex VAT -
Product on sale
TRUBLUE Speed Auto Belay | Competition-Grade Speed Climbing SystemPrice range: € 2.845,00 through € 3.360,00 Ex VAT -
Product on sale
TRUBLUE iQ Auto Belay | Intelligent Magnetic Descent SystemPrice range: € 2.845,00 through € 3.465,00 Ex VAT


