Garmin inReach Mini
- Send and receive messages
- Setup predetermined messages
- Create messages typed on the device but there is no keyboard
- The inReach Mini has many of the same features as the inReach Explorer+ when synced to a smartphone
- Can be synced with the Garmin Forerunner935 or the Fenix 5 series watches
- Request weather updates
- Monthly subscription plans are available if you only plan on using it part of the year.
- Polo to pole coverage internationally
- IPX7 – Waterproof
- Size = 3.9″ x 2.0″ x 1.0″
- Weight = 3.5 oz.
- Pro’s
- Small
- 2-way messaging
- Con’s
- Typing a message is slow
The Garmin inReach Mini is your go-to connection for maintaining off-the-grid contact. It’s a palm-sized satellite communicator for adventures where size and weight matter. inReach Mini lets you send and receive text messages, track and share your journey and, if necessary, trigger an SOS alert to contact the GEOS 24/7 emergency response team. With inReach connectivity, your family and friends will know they can stay in touch globally. Peace of mind matters.
This product was presentation was made with AAWP plugin.
If you would like additional information or to see other models, go to my REVIEW PAGE, leave a COMMENT BELOW or send me an EMAIL.
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SPECIFICATIONS
General | |
| Physical dimensions | 2.04” x 3.90” x 1.03” (5.17 x 9.90 x 2.61 cm) |
|---|---|
| Display size | 0.9″ x 0.9″ (23 x 23 mm) |
| Display resolution | 128 x 128 pixels |
| Display type | sunlight-readable, monochrome, transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) |
| Weight | 3.5 oz (100.0 g) |
| Battery | Rechargeable internal lithium ion |
| Battery life | Up to 90 hours at 10-minute tracking (default); up to 35 hours at 10-minute tracking with 1-second logging; up to 24 days at 30-minute tracking power save mode; and up to 1 year when powered off |
| Water rating | IPX7 |
| Memory/History | None |
| High-sensitivity receiver | |
| Interface | USB |
Maps & Memory | |
| Preloaded maps | no |
|---|---|
| Waypoints/favorites/locations | 500 |
| Routes | 20 |
Outdoor Recreation Features | |
| Camera | no |
|---|---|
Additional | |
| Additional |
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|---|---|
Garmin inReach Mini
Pros
- Compact & Lightweight
- Global Satellite Network
- SOS Distress Call
- 2-Way Messaging
- Weather Forecasts
Cons
- Must be Synced to Have Navigation
- Initial Purchase Price
- Shorter Battery Life then Explorer+
The battery is really massive. I think this Garmin in reach mini has the best battery life spans among all the others that I have read about and as such, it would be a good option to go for. Definitely, there would be times where I might lose my track and get lost. This would be just the perfect reliable in reach gadget to help with communication and be rest assured that irrespective of the time it takes for anyone to find me, I have got cover through this. Thanks
You are right about the Garmin inReach Mini. Its one that I have been giving serious thought to buying. I really like the size and weight of it and the 2-way non-emergency texting could really be useful at times.
I was on a long hike today in Colorado, near Colorado Springs and I kept checking my phone to see where the trail was. I had cell reception for most of the hike and the trail was hard to find at times. It made me wonder if I should think a little more about the Garmin inReach Explorer+, that has the navigation built into the satellite messenger
Thanks for stopping by and sharing.
Rick
Your article on the Garmin InReach Mini was clear, informative and practical. I spent almost 30 years living in the wilderness of northern Ontario and Quebec traveling trails and walking cross country for my work. Back then we just did orientereing with a topographical map. Several times I was in trouble on a river or on a trail with no way to signal anyone. This Garmin would have been a huge asset. I learned from native Americans to note Sun, hills, rivers etc to find my way. I think, in this day and age, these tools are indispensable for anyone enjoying the wilderness at any time of the year. Even an accident at a busy ski resort can be serious if one can’t be located. Your article will help any reader make a decision about this tool. This is a clear, practical interesting site.
Thank you for sharing your experiences with me. It’s interesting how we take so many things for granted and don’t think the worst will ever happen to us, but it does happen. Sometimes its no fault of our own. Life just happens.
I finally got my act together and ordered a satellite messenger, which should be delivered tomorrow, and I will be happy to add it to my pack.
There were several times on a long 10 mile hike today in Colorado that I was wishing I had an emergency locator with me. I was hiking by myself and you just never know when something will happen.
Rick
Hi Rick. As a person that absolutely loves hiking through our great forest regions , as well as having a family that also enjoys it, I have come to realize the importance of owning an emergency beacon. Thank you for your very informative review on some of the products available. I am after something that will last the distance , both with battery use and the product construction itself, be light enough and not to bulky. We also like to travel overseas and hike in other countris. I personally believe that the ‘Somewear Global Hotspot would be the ideal unit for us. What are your thoughts on this choice? Thanks Jim
Hey Jim, I think you are on target with your thoughts on the Somewear Global Hotspot, but I would also add that you might add the Garmin inReach Mini to your research. Both of these use the 100% global Iridium® satellite network which is extremely reliable and a proven network adding global coverage, pole to pole.
Both of these have good battery lives and can be extended by making your tracking interval higher. The Somewear Global Hotspot weighs 4.0 oz. and the Garmin inReach Mini weighs 3.5 oz. and both of them are about the size of a wallet.
I don’t think you could go wrong with either one but they do have some different options and services so take a look at a few of my other articles that may help you make your decision.
https://hikingemergencybeacon.com/which-hiking-emergency-beacon-is-right-for-me/
https://hikingemergencybeacon.com/emergency-radio-reviews/
Let me know what you decide.
Rick
Hi Rick, I was stationed at Ft.Carson when I was in the military. It was a great state. Cold in the winter and wonderful in the summer. One place I remember going to a lot was the Garden of Gods, hope you know the place. Yes it is very important for hiker or camper to know where they are, and in emergency you better have some help with you. All of this equipment you blog about will be very helpful on these occasions. The site has much helpful and important information. I like the site and the images. Would love to visit Colorado again.
Thank you for your service Hector. I have been to the Garden of the Gods several times and this last hike I took was just north of the Air Force Academy, just northwest of Monument. It was the loop around Mount Herman. It’s a beautiful area.
This subject of emergency beacons has hit home for me because so many people end up in trouble in the mountains and many other places around the world. I would have loved to have an emergency beacon on many hiking trips, especially one were I could message other hikers in my group when I was struggling but not in a life-threatening emergency.
I hope you make it back to Colorado and thanks for stopping buy and saying hello.
Rick