Smithok vs RLXMARTD: Which Is Better in 2026?
The two most popular value pack survival bracelets go head-to-head. The Smithok 4-pack ($8.99) includes fire starters in every bracelet. The RLXMARTD 8-pack ($9.99) doubles the count but drops the fire starter. Here is which one wins for your group.
Quick Verdict
The Smithok wins for families and small groups who want full survival capability including fire starters at the best total price ($8.99). The RLXMARTD wins for large groups, scout troops, and events where per-unit cost ($1.25) and color variety (8 colors) matter more than fire-starting tools. Different winners for different needs.
Smithok
RLXMARTD
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Editor's Pick Smithok | RLXMARTD |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | Budget | Budget |
| Pack Size | 4-pack | 8-pack |
| Cord Length | ~9 ft per bracelet | 10 ft per bracelet |
| Breaking Strength | 550 lb | 485 lb (220 kg) |
| Built-in Tools | Compass, fire starter, whistle, metal scraper | Compass, whistle |
| Weight | ~1.3 oz each | 24g (~0.85 oz) each |
| Closure Type | Length-adjustable buckle | Standard buckle |
| Check Price | Check Price |
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Per-Unit Cost RLXMARTD Wins
The RLXMARTD delivers 8 bracelets for $9.99 — that is $1.25 per bracelet, the lowest per-unit cost of any survival bracelet we tested. The Smithok's 4 bracelets for $8.99 works out to $2.25 each. If you are buying for a large group and every dollar per head counts, the RLXMARTD is nearly half the per-unit price.
Tool Completeness Smithok Wins
The Smithok includes the full 5-in-1 tool set in every bracelet: compass, fire starter, whistle, and metal scraper. The RLXMARTD only includes a compass and whistle — no fire starter, no scraper. That is a significant capability gap. For genuine survival preparedness, the fire starter is arguably the most valuable tool in the bracelet. The Smithok wins this category decisively.
Cord Quality Smithok Wins
The Smithok uses 550lb-rated 7-core paracord — the standard military spec. The RLXMARTD uses 485lb-rated cord, which is 65 pounds below the military standard. For typical bracelet use and light emergency cord needs, 485lb is adequate. But for maximum strength and confidence in high-load situations, the Smithok's 550lb rating is the better spec.
Pack Size & Colors RLXMARTD Wins
The RLXMARTD delivers 8 bracelets in 8 different colors — perfect for scout troops, teams, and events where each person needs a unique identifier. The Smithok offers 4 bracelets in 4 colors (orange, black, camo, tan). For color variety and headcount coverage, the RLXMARTD is unmatched. No other bracelet pack gives you 8 distinct options.
Total Cord Volume RLXMARTD Wins
The RLXMARTD provides 10 feet of cord per bracelet across 8 bracelets — that is 80 feet of total paracord for $9.99. The Smithok provides approximately 9 feet per bracelet across 4 — roughly 36 feet total for $8.99. For raw cord volume, the RLXMARTD provides more than double the Smithok's total at a similar price point.
Kid-Friendliness RLXMARTD Wins
At 24g (0.85 oz) per bracelet, the RLXMARTD is the lightest bracelet we tested — comfortable even for young kids. The lack of a fire starter also makes it safer for unsupervised wear by children. The Smithok is comfortable enough for older kids but includes a fire starter that should only be used under adult supervision.
Who Should Get Which?
Get the Smithok 4-Pack if...
- You need fire-starting capability in every bracelet — the Smithok includes it, the RLXMARTD does not
- You are buying for a family of 4 or a small group
- Cord strength matters — 550lb vs 485lb
- You want the lowest total spend ($8.99 vs $9.99)
- You are building emergency kits where tool completeness matters
Get the RLXMARTD 8-Pack if...
- You need bracelets for 5+ people — only $1.25 per head
- Color variety matters for team/group identification (8 unique colors)
- You are buying for scouts, events, or party favors
- The bracelets are for kids — lightest weight, no fire starter
- Total cord volume matters — 80 feet vs 36 feet
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper per bracelet — Smithok or RLXMARTD?
The RLXMARTD is cheaper per unit at $1.25 per bracelet (8-pack for $9.99) vs the Smithok at $2.25 per bracelet (4-pack for $8.99). The RLXMARTD wins on per-unit cost, while the Smithok wins on lowest total spend ($8.99 vs $9.99).
Does the RLXMARTD have a fire starter?
No. The RLXMARTD only includes a compass and whistle. It does NOT have a fire starter or scraper. The Smithok includes the full tool suite: compass, fire starter, whistle, and metal scraper. If fire-starting capability matters, choose the Smithok.
Which is better for scout troops?
The RLXMARTD 8-pack is purpose-built for scout troops: 8 different colors at $1.25 each with no fire starter (safer for kids). The Smithok 4-pack is better for smaller groups where you want the fire starter tool included for supervised skill-building.
Is 485lb cord strong enough?
The RLXMARTD uses 485lb-rated cord compared to the standard 550lb. For bracelet wear and most emergency cord uses (lashing, tying, dragging light loads), 485lb is more than sufficient. You would only notice the difference under extreme loads near the breaking point. For typical survival uses, both are strong enough.
Which has better color options?
The RLXMARTD offers 8 different colors in a single pack — the most variety of any bracelet. The Smithok offers 4 colors (orange, black, camo, tan). For team identification, party favors, or group differentiation, the RLXMARTD's 8-color spread is unmatched.
Can I mix both packs for a large event?
Yes — that is a great strategy. Buy one RLXMARTD 8-pack ($9.99) plus one Smithok 4-pack ($8.99) for 12 total bracelets at $18.98. The Smithok bracelets (with fire starters) go to adult leaders while the RLXMARTD bracelets go to youth participants.
Final Verdict
These two packs serve different audiences. The Smithok wins for families and serious preparedness with its complete tool set and 550lb cord. The RLXMARTD wins for large groups, events, and kids with its unbeatable $1.25 per-unit cost and 8-color variety. Both deliver real paracord at prices that make group preparedness accessible.