I’ve taken a close look at the Garmin inReach Mini 2 vs inReach Messenger in my latest satellite messenger comparison. Is there really a reason to buy the inReach Messenger when you can have the more powerful inReach Mini 2 for not a lot more money?

Similarities

Garmin Satellite Messengers
inReach Technology
Interactive SOS
2-way Messaging
Weather Forecasts
Tracking
TracBack
Global, Pole to Pole Satellite Coverage – Iridium Satellite Network
Small, lightweight and compact

Differences

Mini 2 – Maps when Synced with Smartphone
Messenger – Group Messaging
Mini 2 – On and Off Course Alerts on TracBack
Messenger – Switch from Cell Service to Satellite Service
Messenger – Flat surface to be more stable when sitting on a table
Mini 2 Price – $390
Messenger Price – $300

My Thoughts After Field Tests

Initially, I was wondering why Garmin made the inReach Messenger for $300 when you can buy the inReach Mini 2 for $390 and the Mini 2 is much more powerful.

After a lot of thought, I believe these two satellite messengers are made for two different groups. Let me list some reasons to buy the Messenger and then I’ll list the two groups I believe they are made for.

Reasons to Buy the Messenger:

You have maps or a GPS device but can’t communicate outside of cell service
You have no electronic device but, again you want to be able to call for help.

Groups the inReach Messenger Works For:

I think the inReach Messenger is best for people that are out in the mountains in an RV or camping in tents, but you want two-way messaging as many of these locations are outside cell service.

Groups the inReach Mini 2 Works For:

The inReach Mini 2 is better for people that are more active in the outdoors and are doing things like hiking, fishing, hunting, mountain biking, kayaking, etc. You will have access to topo maps plus more powerful tracking and TracBack.

Final Thoughts

The inReach Mini 2 costs about $90 more than the inReach Messenger and that is a lot of money for some people, but if you can afford the extra money, I would absolutely buy the inReach Mini 2. If you mostly camp in the mountains in your RV or tent, then having a satellite messenger you can lay out on the picnic table and stay in contact with family and friends then the inReach Messenger may be perfect for you.

I think it really comes down to what you do in the outdoors, so please leave a message below and I’ll do my best to direct you to the right satellite messenger for you.

Check out the YouTube video below of the Mini 2 vs the Messenger.

No products found.

Sale

Garmin Quick Release Lanyard, Standard Packaging,Black/Grey,Black/ Grey, Medium

Attaches To Handheld Device To Wear Around Neck & Keep Hands Free During Outdoor Adventures
Compatible With Astro 320
Garmin 010-11733-00 Quick Release Lanyard
Package weight: 1.4 oz

This product was presentation was made with AAWP plugin.

Return to Home Page