I’m comparing the Garmin inReach Mini 2 vs All Others. I layout all the satellite messengers I own to help you decide what satellite messenger may be best for you.
Satellite Messengers on Display
- SPOT Gen 3 (Replaced by the SPOT Gen 4)
- SPOT Gen 4
- SPOT X (Replaced by the SPOT X Bluetooth)
- SPOT X Bluetooth
- ACR Bivystick
- Somewear Global Hotspot
- Zoleo
- Garmin inReach Mini
- Garmin inReach Mini 2
- Garmin inReach SE
- Garmin inReach Explorer+
- Garmin GPSMAP 67i
- Garmin Montana 700i
Simple Satellite Messengers
The most simple satellite messengers are the SPOT Gen 3 and the SPOT Gen 4. These are small, lightweight 1-way satellite messengers with SOS.
Everyone should have a satellite messenger on their pack and if you are short on money or only want a simple device, then the SPOT Gen 4 is the primary satellite messenger you should look at.
Best Messenger for Communication
If your priority is communication then the Somewear Global Hotspot and Zoleo are the two satellite messengers I would recommend.
The reasons I say this is that the Somewear Global Hotspot transitions from cellular service to satellite service automatically without you having to change anything.
Zoleo takes it one step farther and will automatically transition from wifi to cell service and finally to satellite service. This is done seamlessly as it costs less money to message in wifi and cellular service over sending messages with satellite service.
Smallest Satellite Messengers
- SPOT Gen 3
- SPOT Gen 4
- ACR Bivystick
- Somewear Global Hotspot
- Garmin inReach Mini
- Garmin inReach Mini 2
Best Messenger for Long Trips
The Garmin inReach Explorer+ (NOW THE GARMIN GPSMAP 67i) is the best satellite messenger for long outdoor adventures, primarily due to it being a standalone device plus it has one of the best batteries on the market.
You can still sync the inReach Explorer+ to your smartphone for convenience, but it is not necessary.
Most Powerful Functions
The satellite messengers that have the most powerful functions are:
- Garmin inReach Explorer+
- Garmin GPSMAP 66i
- Garmin inReach Mini 2
You can see my reviews of each of these satellite messengers that goes into depth in field tests that will show you all the functions they have.
My Favorite Satellite Messengers
Here is a list of my favorite satellite messengers ranked in order from top to bottom.
- Garmin inReach Mini 2
- Garmin inReach Explorer+
- Garmin GPSMAP 66i
- Garmin inReach Mini
- Zoleo (if communication is the most important priority)
- SPOT Gen 4 (if simplicity and cost is important)
Final Thoughts
There are many great satellite messengers here and there is not one device that is the best one for everyone. Choosing the right satellite messenger depends on what’s important to you and what kind of outdoor adventures you go on.
Please leave a comment if you have questions and I’ll do my best to point you to the satellite messenger that is the right one for you.
You can see the YouTube video below where I talk in more depth about all of these messengers.
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- 100% Global Iridium satellite coverage enables two-way text messaging from anywhere (satellite subscription required)
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center
- Track and share your location with Family and friends. Display type: transflective color TFT
- Pair with mobile devices using the free Earth mate app for access to downloadable maps, U. S. Noaa charts, color aerial imagery and more
This product was presentation was made with AAWP plugin.
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