It’s time to compare the Garmin inReach Mini vs SPOT X. Specifically, the Garmin inReach Mini (now Mini 2) vs the SPOT X and Gen 3 (now Gen 4).
Physical Comparison
What more is there to say? The Garmin inReach is smaller than either the SPOT X or the SPOT Gen 3. It’s also significantly lighter than the SPOT X and only slightly lighter than the SPOT Gen 3.
The Garmin Mini is a little thicker, especially with the backpack tether as shown in the photo but it is so small that is not noticeable.
Feature Comparison
I’m going to break the features down by what’s important to me after having all of these on the trail, so I won’t be listing off all the features from the manufactures websites.
Garmin inReach Mini
- Compact & Lightweight
- 2-Way Satellite Messenger
- Navigation & Topo Maps when Synced with Smartphone
- Weather Forecasting when Synced with Smartphone
- Worldwide, Pole to Pole Satellite Coverage
- Larger Screen when Synced with Smartphone
SPOT X
- Large & bulky
- 2-Way Satellite Messaging
- Limited Navigation
- No Weather Forecasting
- Holes in Global Satellite Coverage
- Unique U.S. Cell Phone Number
- Built-in Keypad
- Cannot Sync with Smartphone
SPOT Gen 3
- Compact & Lightweight
- (1-Way) Satellite Messaging
- No Navigation
- No Weather Forecasting
- Holes in Global Satellite Coverage
- Cannot Sync with Smartphone
Satellite Coverage Comparison
This one will be short & sweet.
- Garmin inReach Mini = Global, Pole to Pole Satellite Coverage
- SPOT X = Holes in Global Satellite Coverage
- SPOT Gen 3 = Holes in Global Satellite Coverage
SPOT Coverage Map
Navigation Comparison
Garmin inReach Mini
The inReach Mini has incredible naviagtion features, when synced with your smartphone. Without the smartphone, there is limited navigation use. When the Mini is synced, it is just as powerful as the Garmin inReach Explorer.
SPOT X
The SPOT X does have navigation but since it does not have use of topo maps, there is limited navigation function.
SPOT Gen 3
The SPOT X may be the simplest satellite messenger to use, but that being said, there is absolutely no navigation function.
Ease of Use
Hands down the SPOT Gen 3 is the easiest satellite messenger to use, primarily due to it’s limited functions or features. I would say the SPOT X is next in ease of use, and again, this is due to not having topo maps you can download and use on your device.
The Garmin inReach Mini is the least easy to use, HOWEVER, that’s only in comparison. I had no problem at all in setting up and using the Garmin inReach Mini, the Earthmate app and the awesome mapping features that comes with it.
Final Thoughts
I want to start this out by saying I love the having the SPOT X and the SPOT Gen 3 and would recommend them to anyone, however, after using the Garmin inReach Mini only once on the trail, and seeing how great it works with the Earthmate app, with the topo maps, having weather forecasting and 2-way messaging… It’s an easy choice for me.
I prefer the Garmin inReach Mini.
You can see a short YouTube video of the comparisons below.
- Small, rugged, lightweight satellite communicator enables 2 way text messaging using the 100 percentage global Iridium network (satellite subscription required).Special Feature:Bluetooth.
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center (satellite subscription required). Display size-0.9 x 0.9 inch
- Access downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more by using the free Garmin Earthmate app and compatible devices
- Optional inReach weather forecast service provides detailed updates directly to your inReach Mini or paired device, basic and premium weather packages available
- Send and receive inReach messages through compatible Garmin devices, including connected wearables and handhelds. Display resolution: 128 x 128 pixels
- NOTICE: Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices. It is the responsibility of the user to know and follow all applicable laws in the jurisdictions where the device is intended to be used
This product was presentation was made with AAWP plugin.
- Compact, lightweight satellite communicator enables two-way messaging and interactive SOS globally (Active satellite subscription required. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communication devices.).Special Feature:Bluetooth.Water Resistant: Yes
- Navigate back to where you started by using TracBack routing
- Share your location with loved ones back home at any time (active satellite subscription required) by using your MapShare page or with your coordinates embedded in your messages
- Get accurate heading information using the digital compass — even when you’re not moving
- Sync with the Garmin Explore app and website on your compatible smartphone for trip planning and topographical mapping, and create waypoints, courses, activities and collections you can sync to your device
- Pair with Garmin devices, such as wearables and handhelds, and use them to send and receive messages and trigger an SOS (active satellite subscription required)
This product was presentation was made with AAWP plugin.
- SYNC WITH BLUETOOTH: Connect to SpotX to cellphone so you can communicate with family or even search and rescue; Use as a standalone communication device with it's own dedicated US mobile number to receive messages
- PEACE OF MIND: Send S.O.S. to 24/7 Search & Rescue service, message back and forth about the nature of your emergency, receive confirmation when help is on the way; Message any cell number or email address virtually anywhere
- GLOBALSTAR SATELLITE & SPOT products use GPS to determine location and transmit GPS coordinates to others; SPOT users can notify friends, family or emergency rescue their exact GPS coordinates
- WHAT'S IN THE BOX: SpotX Device, strap and carabiner, micro usb data/power cable, quick start guide, SOS mirrored sticker, warranty card and kickstand
- PURCHASE, ACTIVATE, EXPLORE: Grab a Spot X 2-way Satellite Messenger; Activate by selecting your service plan; Get out there and explore the world with peace of mind
This product was presentation was made with AAWP plugin.
Please leave a Comment Below if you have any experience or opinions about these three satellite messengers, or send me an Email.
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Many thanks to you for sharing such a beautiful article with us and through your article we learned about a device in great need. I personally use this Garmin inReach Mini. This device is one of my favorite devices and I take it when I go for a walk in the jungle. Here is the sophisticated GPRS system whereby if I ever get lost in the jungle, I can find the right direction. And there are many other types of software that I can download that I will use. I hope that after reading your article, many will buy this device and share their experience with you.
Thank you so much for sharing your personal experiences with the Garmin inReach Mini. I have only used it once but I am sold on it over the SPOT devices, even though I really like them and would be fine with them on the trail.
Rick
Well the Garmin inreach is a clear winner. Though the spot X does seem like a good choice despite lacking a reliable global satellite coverage. What I don’t understand though is why you have the spot gen 3 when you have the inreach mini. I like the weather forecasting feature of the inreach mini so when comparing all 3, I’ll go with the inreach mini anytime.
Thanks for sharing.
Hi Rhain,
I am buying all of the top satellite messengers and personal locator beacons so I can be more thorough in my research and reviews.
I started with the SPOT Gen 3, then bought the SPOT X, and last week bought the Garmin inReach Mini. I will be purchasing the Garmin inReach Explorer in February, followed by the rest of the main competitors in 2020.
It’s amazing how much you learn about these devices when you really own them and use them on the trail.
Rick
I have a gen 3 spot. I am currently having problems with the spot mapping program. The pop-up blocker blocks the map. Their tech department sent me a url to get around the pop-up blocker. This url didn’t work the first time I used it but is working now…. on my computer. I have two people that track me; one has been successful using the url, the other has not.
Hi Dennis. I’m glad you were able to get that working. I have found the SPOT support team to be very helpful.
I have been using my Garmin inReach Mini for most of my hikes these days and my son is using the Garmin inReach Explorer+ and I have found these Garmin Satellite Messengers to be more powerful and my first choice when heading to the outdoors.
I would love to hear more from you about how well your SPOT Gen 3 is performing.