Garmin Inreach mini satellite communicator

TravelClimbingMountaineeringHikingBikepacking
Written By Chris Shirley MA FRGS

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Cost ★★★☆☆

Performance ★★★★★

Overall Score ★★★★☆

Verdict: A great satellite communicator to enable safer adventures, however comes at a cost.

The Garmin Inreach Mini is a compact and lightweight satellite communication device that allows users to send and receive text messages and track their location in remote areas where cell service is not available. It uses the Iridium satellite network to provide global coverage, and it can also be paired with a smartphone or tablet for messaging through the Garmin Earthmate app. I

 

It has a built-in GPS receiver, and it can also be used as a personal locator beacon in case of emergency. The device has a long battery life of up to 100 hours, and it is also water-resistant. The device also has a feature of two-way messaging, tracking and triggering an SOS. Overall, it is a great option for outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers, and anyone who works or travels in remote areas and wants to stay connected and safe.

 

Good points about the Garmin InReach Mini:

 

1.     Lightweight and compact design: The inReach Mini is smaller and lighter than other inReach devices, making it easy to carry and store.

 

2.     Two-way messaging: The inReach Mini allows users to send and receive text messages, even in remote locations without cell service.

 

3.     GPS tracking: The device includes GPS tracking capabilities, allowing users to easily share their location and track their progress on outdoor adventures.

 

4.     Long battery life: The inReach Mini can last up to 50 hours on a single charge, making it ideal for extended trips.

 

5.     SOS feature: The inReach Mini includes an SOS feature that can be used to alert emergency services in case of an emergency.

 

6.     Weather updates: The device can provide real-time weather updates, helping users prepare for changing conditions.

 

 

Bad points about the Garmin InReach Mini:

 

1.     Limited screen size: The screen on the inReach Mini is quite small, making it difficult to view text messages or other information (this is obviously a benefit when it comes to weight).

 

2.     Expensive: The inReach Mini is relatively expensive compared to other GPS devices on the market.

 

3.     Limited mapping capabilities: The device does not include pre-loaded maps or turn-by-turn navigation.

 

4.     Subscription required: A monthly or annual subscription is required to access all of the inReach Mini's features.

 

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Chris Shirley MA FRGS

About the Author: A former Royal Marines officer and advisor to the BBC, Chris has travelled in over 60 countries, is a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, a Guinness World Record holder for rowing over 3500 miles across the Atlantic Ocean, a Marathon des Sables finisher, and is the founder of ‘Haus of Hiatus’, a website design and branding studio that designs and amplifies start-ups, scale-ups and special projects around the world.

He has worked with Hollywood actors, world–renowned musical artists and TV personalities, and is delighted to have had his work featured by the United Nations, Red Bull, BBC, and even seen at the South Pole!

https://www.hausofhiatus.com/team
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