My two cents... as far as real field use goes, testing the device at home on the east coast was great. GPS was accurate and fast enough. Send/receive messages was reasonably fast (takes a few minutes no matter what) and consistently succeeded. But when I got out into the wilderness of Wyoming, messages took way longer to send/receive, and I couldn't really use the GPS for tracking my hiking progress. Half the time my location defaulted to 0.0 lat 0.0 lon and told me I was thousands of miles from my waypoint. This was in summer 2021. But this year in the Appalachians it was fine for messages. They do seem to put out firmware updates regularly, and who knows if the communication network was being sketchy exactly during my trip, so I can't conclusively knock the device itself. But for multi-night backcountry trips, I recommend turning it off until you want to stop and check in because even on the most conservative breadcrumb mode, I was seeing the battery bar depleting too fast to avoid needing to recharge. In the future I would like to see a USB-C interface and a bit better battery performance. One last thing, you really do need to get out into a clearing and set the device down antenna-up to allow it to run its message synch. So it's good for a lunch stop or when you reach camp--not for a quick check-in OTM.
I had a similar experience. I live in the NE, but used the Spotx in Colorado for hiking. I had lots of trouble getting a stable satellite signal even in open spaces. It left me lacking confidence it would work if/when I really needed it. I think the device quality is fine.. its likely due to the less robust satellite network its uses vs. competitors.
@@breyton490 one positive thing I can update is that the battery life is much better than I thought. I left it on continuously for over a week and it was still going. Set to 60 minute synch intervals. The battery indicator on the display is a little misleading. Even though it fairly quickly goes from full to 3/4, it will stay there for days.
My buddy has one of these and he says just make sure it is updated since he went to Fordyce trail about a month ago and said that he had to update it before be went
Garmin inreach has a similar features and pay plans. I chose the inreach because of its size and weight. One thing to consider if this is part of your communications plan where this will fit into your PACE plan. Think through where it's weak points are. Even though it's satellite it still is dependent on ground stations to convert the commication to cell or land lines.
I have the Spot X, I picked it up for really cheap and already had a Spot account already. I’ve used it for over a year now with the unlimited plan and it’s been descent to me. It is bulky compared to the Garmin InReach Mini. My main problem with it is the buttons on it can be difficult to depress at times and frustrating to deal with. Especially the power button, mine broke. Now I can’t turn it on or off. So I just leave it on at all times and keep it charged. I could probably contact Spot and see if they could fix or warranty it, but I’ve been lazy and it still does what it’s supposed to do. I do like the ability to still text with a full QWERTY keyboard even if my phone is dead, unlike the Zoleo. The Garmin you can text from the device, but it takes forever. It’s easier if you use it Bluetoothed to your phone. For the record, I purchased my Spot X on EBay for $150. I think in the next year I’m going to try out the InReach Mini since they came out with the Mini 2 and the prices on the original have come down significantly. Just my 2 cents on it from my personal experience.
I agree that the all in one way this can be used is a big plus. The price is reasonable compared to others I've looked at. But like all things there are always going to be those who want to rag on it. Not a bad product. Is it the top of the line? No. But then it is quite a bit less in price and maintenance cost. That is always a trade off. Everyone needs to decide for themselves if it is a good value for them. Thanks for sharing Bryan.
Could you have 2 of these to ha e sat texting between 2 people? Might be good backup for SHTF if cell towers were down. Assuming comms between the two would truly be strictly sat based
I suppose you could communicate between 2 of these but I don't know if they would work i fthe cell towers wee all down. I kind of doubt it because they receive messages through a dedicated mobile number. So I think the messages go between cell towers and satellites. Not really sure.
Old school was fine for its day, but it's nice to have a button that says, "I need help, and I'm right here." Accidents do happen, which is why you practice survival on purpose. 'Be prepared': and this is preparation for emergencies. It's also reassuring to family and loved ones so they don't worry so much when you check in (like a radio check for soldiers on a mission) so they know you're ok. The batteries recommended are lithium long-lasting batteries, and they will not let you down for a month straight if need be as long as it's not on all day long. Turn it on when needed and the batteries will last a long, long time. Bring spares if you like in case. You can update who you want to send messages to at the start of your trip, or simply leave it so for as long as you want, every trip. It's nice to know you are not alone (and if you do get in a serious mess, that is very comforting, believe me.) They also can locate you anywhere (and that means anywhere) on this planet earth.
I'm curious if the subscription goes through a authentication center, because if there's grid outage that includes that authentication center, will my device not connect?
I have no idea but that is a god question. I got mine for travel and use in places with no cell coverage during "regular" times, not a grid down disaster.
@@SurvivalOnPurpose I did some digging, it does go through a ground based authentication center. HAM radio to me is sketchy unless the repeaters are on solar, that's a lot of work just to find out your baofeng is just a walkie talkie.
After using for a few years, for me using Offshore fishing out to 60 miles, I am not happy with the device. Always very slow sending/receiving. Sometimes, might not send for about 10 minutes. Clear sky, no obstructions. Also, it will not work if any 5G is around when near or on shore. Connectivity in the app via bluetooth fails to stay connected for no good reason. I am going to cancel my subscription and go for the Garmin InReach Mini2.
The old saying, its expensive because you may never use it, but worth every penny plus more if you ever need it. Piece od mind is worth 250.00 and 100 or so a year
I really like your sponsor display. In particular I have trained with both Tactical Response and Refuge Medical. Terrific training. Hawg Holsters are really good too.
Mine worked great everywhere on the Appalachian trail maine to Georgia and I never had any problems, not under trees or anything, still use mine with the unlimited plan , 35.00 it's now 22.00 activation and it's unlimited custom messages and unlimited tracking
I have used the spot x for the past year and am cancelling my plan. I spend weekends in a rugged West Virginia location and wanted the Spot for emergency's. My experience is due to heavy tree coverage the spot did not connect when I was not on a hilltop with big open sky. Anytime I was in the woods no connection. Additionally the unit got wet and dealing with spot customer service for repair was a nightmare. If anyone wants to buy my unit it is in perfect order with all accessories and the box.
Bryan, I wouldn't ever encourage you to go to this goofy state to test you device out, but if you DID go to Southern California, to a place called El Centro, you'd find the Salton Sea and a water tower with a horizontal line painted near the top. That line is about 230 feet in the air and it says "Sea Level". I guess the West Coasters filed a lawsuit to make sure they didn't get cheated if they used the device there. LOL That is, the ones that were willing to touch anything that was made of materials known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects, etc, etc, blah blah blah. 🙂
This looks really interesting as a device for kids. I don't necessarily want an 11 year old to have a cell phone where they accidentally use too much data watching TH-cam or search for porn but they could still send text messages to us and their friends and use GPS maps.
If they were I'd fly one to Savannah. Can you believe I have lived in Georgia for over 60 years and have never been to Savannah? I've camped in the Okefenokee Swamp twice and I've been down that long boring stretch of 16 from Macon more times than I care to remember, but I always turn right at 95. Maybe I'll have to check it out in 2024.
Search and rescue doesn't charge for rescue, almost every Sar team in the lower 48 does it for free , there's no charge for it we , rescue hikers all the time that use these devices. Our rescue choppers are paid for through the state .
Man I'd rather die in the woods than come out in debt 😆. It's not right to charge a person for saving their lives in my opinion. There needs to be a fund set up for people to be able to donate to these people that do search and rescue missions just for this reason. Just my opinion and I know stuff cost money and a lot more money these days. But if you are going to charge me an arm and a leg to save my life just leave me be 🤷♂️. I would feel terrible going out to save a person then charging them for fuel and what not. If you aren't in the situation where you are able to help and donate your time or services stay home! Again just my opinion
Stuck in the metric system? You guys in the US need to come over to metric. Who would have thought that everything being divisible by ten is way more efficient 🤣🤣🤣
These devices are used worldwide.... Almost all are on metric system. Reviews should be relevant to everyone... The US isn't the only place where people go that may need help with an emergency... Thanks for the metric and our antiquated measuring system. I've owned SPOT devices and never had a problem. Don't expect satellite devices to work as quickly as cell based.
I had a Garmin InReach but it constantly failed to connect to GPS, even when I was out on a hill and my phone managed to get a signal. I'm hoping for better performance with the Spot X, but so far, their customer service has been atrocious.
What a mirracle it would be to be saved from falling off a cliff....only to be saved and charged $250,000 for your rescue. Resulting in you having to sell your house to pay off. Now youre alive, but homeless.
In correct 97% of the local 48 don't charge you for getting rescued, search and rescue is who comes for you dude , I know we respond to the sos calls from these all the time . Sounds like you need to read a bit more 😂
Absolutly not. This devise is worthless unless you have constant firmwear Updates. Nothing like being dead becouse you didnt get the latest firmwear update. I suppose your to carry your home computer on your back with you. A $ 200 papper weight,. Then, to add insult to injury, they make it as difficult,if not impossible, to unsubscribe from automatic billing. Do not buy this product. Buyer bewear!
My credit card was hacked and that ended my subscription luckily. You otherwise have to call them to cancel it. They blew up my phone with phone calls, texts and emails for months trying to get me back. The Iridium network is higher up, more satellites and just works more reliably, less problems in vegetation, longer contact period, faster transmission. The tracking on the SpotX isn’t good and the compass depletes the battery fast. The Inreach Mini 2 seems best overall. The Garmin 67i has awesome mapping and stand alone capability from your phone and you message phone numbers directly, no need to make contacts and have your friends using an APP to receive or send messages.
My two cents... as far as real field use goes, testing the device at home on the east coast was great. GPS was accurate and fast enough. Send/receive messages was reasonably fast (takes a few minutes no matter what) and consistently succeeded. But when I got out into the wilderness of Wyoming, messages took way longer to send/receive, and I couldn't really use the GPS for tracking my hiking progress. Half the time my location defaulted to 0.0 lat 0.0 lon and told me I was thousands of miles from my waypoint. This was in summer 2021. But this year in the Appalachians it was fine for messages. They do seem to put out firmware updates regularly, and who knows if the communication network was being sketchy exactly during my trip, so I can't conclusively knock the device itself. But for multi-night backcountry trips, I recommend turning it off until you want to stop and check in because even on the most conservative breadcrumb mode, I was seeing the battery bar depleting too fast to avoid needing to recharge. In the future I would like to see a USB-C interface and a bit better battery performance. One last thing, you really do need to get out into a clearing and set the device down antenna-up to allow it to run its message synch. So it's good for a lunch stop or when you reach camp--not for a quick check-in OTM.
I had a similar experience. I live in the NE, but used the Spotx in Colorado for hiking. I had lots of trouble getting a stable satellite signal even in open spaces. It left me lacking confidence it would work if/when I really needed it. I think the device quality is fine.. its likely due to the less robust satellite network its uses vs. competitors.
@@breyton490 one positive thing I can update is that the battery life is much better than I thought. I left it on continuously for over a week and it was still going. Set to 60 minute synch intervals. The battery indicator on the display is a little misleading. Even though it fairly quickly goes from full to 3/4, it will stay there for days.
If you ever run into the situation where you need this you will be so glad you had it. So yes very handy item if you can afford it
Always wondered about these. I have a small ham radio but they are not always the best for an emergency. Also considered a sat phone.
My buddy has one of these and he says just make sure it is updated since he went to Fordyce trail about a month ago and said that he had to update it before be went
Great review
Garmin inreach has a similar features and pay plans. I chose the inreach because of its size and weight. One thing to consider if this is part of your communications plan where this will fit into your PACE plan. Think through where it's weak points are. Even though it's satellite it still is dependent on ground stations to convert the commication to cell or land lines.
Inreach plans are crazy expensive compared to the spot x
I have the Spot X, I picked it up for really cheap and already had a Spot account already. I’ve used it for over a year now with the unlimited plan and it’s been descent to me. It is bulky compared to the Garmin InReach Mini. My main problem with it is the buttons on it can be difficult to depress at times and frustrating to deal with. Especially the power button, mine broke. Now I can’t turn it on or off. So I just leave it on at all times and keep it charged. I could probably contact Spot and see if they could fix or warranty it, but I’ve been lazy and it still does what it’s supposed to do. I do like the ability to still text with a full QWERTY keyboard even if my phone is dead, unlike the Zoleo. The Garmin you can text from the device, but it takes forever. It’s easier if you use it Bluetoothed to your phone. For the record, I purchased my Spot X on EBay for $150. I think in the next year I’m going to try out the InReach Mini since they came out with the Mini 2 and the prices on the original have come down significantly.
Just my 2 cents on it from my personal experience.
I agree that the all in one way this can be used is a big plus. The price is reasonable compared to others I've looked at. But like all things there are always going to be those who want to rag on it. Not a bad product. Is it the top of the line? No. But then it is quite a bit less in price and maintenance cost. That is always a trade off.
Everyone needs to decide for themselves if it is a good value for them.
Thanks for sharing Bryan.
Could you have 2 of these to ha e sat texting between 2 people? Might be good backup for SHTF if cell towers were down. Assuming comms between the two would truly be strictly sat based
I suppose you could communicate between 2 of these but I don't know if they would work i fthe cell towers wee all down. I kind of doubt it because they receive messages through a dedicated mobile number. So I think the messages go between cell towers and satellites. Not really sure.
Old school was fine for its day, but it's nice to have a button that says, "I need help, and I'm right here." Accidents do happen, which is why you practice survival on purpose. 'Be prepared': and this is preparation for emergencies. It's also reassuring to family and loved ones so they don't worry so much when you check in (like a radio check for soldiers on a mission) so they know you're ok. The batteries recommended are lithium long-lasting batteries, and they will not let you down for a month straight if need be as long as it's not on all day long. Turn it on when needed and the batteries will last a long, long time. Bring spares if you like in case. You can update who you want to send messages to at the start of your trip, or simply leave it so for as long as you want, every trip. It's nice to know you are not alone (and if you do get in a serious mess, that is very comforting, believe me.) They also can locate you anywhere (and that means anywhere) on this planet earth.
In a shtf situation how likely is it that satellite will be up and running?
Don't know. But in a good old everyday emergency or vehicle breakdown in an area with no cell service, it seems like a good backup to me.
How long does the battery last? Will it take standard non rechargeable batteries? If so what kind?
240 HRS max,
It's got a built in battery you can't change batteries out for fresh ones
I'm curious if the subscription goes through a authentication center, because if there's grid outage that includes that authentication center, will my device not connect?
I have no idea but that is a god question. I got mine for travel and use in places with no cell coverage during "regular" times, not a grid down disaster.
@@SurvivalOnPurpose I did some digging, it does go through a ground based authentication center. HAM radio to me is sketchy unless the repeaters are on solar, that's a lot of work just to find out your baofeng is just a walkie talkie.
After using for a few years, for me using Offshore fishing out to 60 miles, I am not happy with the device. Always very slow sending/receiving. Sometimes, might not send for about 10 minutes. Clear sky, no obstructions. Also, it will not work if any 5G is around when near or on shore. Connectivity in the app via bluetooth fails to stay connected for no good reason. I am going to cancel my subscription and go for the Garmin InReach Mini2.
Crazy man ,mine works excellent compared to the inreach mini 2 , that thing sucked
The old saying, its expensive because you may never use it, but worth every penny plus more if you ever need it. Piece od mind is worth 250.00 and 100 or so a year
Good video
Thanks
I think that is great , but is it worth buying , that would depend on your individual lifestyle
Definitely was worth it for me
I really like your sponsor display. In particular I have trained with both Tactical Response and Refuge Medical. Terrific training. Hawg Holsters are really good too.
This seems like a much better buy than the garmin inreach tbh
Mine worked great everywhere on the Appalachian trail maine to Georgia and I never had any problems, not under trees or anything, still use mine with the unlimited plan , 35.00 it's now 22.00 activation and it's unlimited custom messages and unlimited tracking
I have used the spot x for the past year and am cancelling my plan. I spend weekends in a rugged West Virginia location and wanted the Spot for emergency's. My experience is due to heavy tree coverage the spot did not connect when I was not on a hilltop with big open sky. Anytime I was in the woods no connection. Additionally the unit got wet and dealing with spot customer service for repair was a nightmare. If anyone wants to buy my unit it is in perfect order with all accessories and the box.
How much do you want for it? I'm interested.
Bryan, I wouldn't ever encourage you to go to this goofy state to test you device out, but if you DID go to Southern California, to a place called El Centro, you'd find the Salton Sea and a water tower with a horizontal line painted near the top. That line is about 230 feet in the air and it says "Sea Level". I guess the West Coasters filed a lawsuit to make sure they didn't get cheated if they used the device there. LOL That is, the ones that were willing to touch anything that was made of materials known to the state of California to cause cancer, birth defects, etc, etc, blah blah blah. 🙂
Or as AvE on youtube would say, "known in the state of cancer to cause california"
Informative. But stop shaking the phone at the camera. I just wanna reach through the screen and grab it from you.
Is that American made or Chinese made?
Are there any similar items which are American made?
pure surrender grade chinesium most likely.
This looks really interesting as a device for kids. I don't necessarily want an 11 year old to have a cell phone where they accidentally use too much data watching TH-cam or search for porn but they could still send text messages to us and their friends and use GPS maps.
$30 for a GMRS/Ham Boefeng radio and you're good - no fees. Ever.
WORD!!
As long as you're within 2 miles of a repeater (and are able to access it) maybe. Out in the middle of nowhere that would be unlikely.
You can’t message someone else either
Minus the license to use it and the fee to get it renewed every year 😂
Not - chance . Only iridium satellite network devices are worth it it. Check out garmin inreach series !!!!
Helicopters aren’t free. WOW!
If they were I'd fly one to Savannah. Can you believe I have lived in Georgia for over 60 years and have never been to Savannah? I've camped in the Okefenokee Swamp twice and I've been down that long boring stretch of 16 from Macon more times than I care to remember, but I always turn right at 95. Maybe I'll have to check it out in 2024.
Search and rescue doesn't charge for rescue, almost every Sar team in the lower 48 does it for free , there's no charge for it we , rescue hikers all the time that use these devices. Our rescue choppers are paid for through the state .
💪🏽🇺🇸
Man I'd rather die in the woods than come out in debt 😆. It's not right to charge a person for saving their lives in my opinion. There needs to be a fund set up for people to be able to donate to these people that do search and rescue missions just for this reason. Just my opinion and I know stuff cost money and a lot more money these days. But if you are going to charge me an arm and a leg to save my life just leave me be 🤷♂️. I would feel terrible going out to save a person then charging them for fuel and what not. If you aren't in the situation where you are able to help and donate your time or services stay home! Again just my opinion
Stuck in the metric system? You guys in the US need to come over to metric. Who would have thought that everything being divisible by ten is way more efficient 🤣🤣🤣
😜😜😜
Screw that metric system sucks 😂
These devices are used worldwide.... Almost all are on metric system. Reviews should be relevant to everyone... The US isn't the only place where people go that may need help with an emergency... Thanks for the metric and our antiquated measuring system. I've owned SPOT devices and never had a problem. Don't expect satellite devices to work as quickly as cell based.
Get a Garmin in reach
These are Junk
I had a Garmin InReach but it constantly failed to connect to GPS, even when I was out on a hill and my phone managed to get a signal. I'm hoping for better performance with the Spot X, but so far, their customer service has been atrocious.
What a mirracle it would be to be saved from falling off a cliff....only to be saved and charged $250,000 for your rescue. Resulting in you having to sell your house to pay off. Now youre alive, but homeless.
In correct 97% of the local 48 don't charge you for getting rescued, search and rescue is who comes for you dude , I know we respond to the sos calls from these all the time . Sounds like you need to read a bit more 😂
Absolutly not. This devise is worthless unless you have constant firmwear Updates. Nothing like being dead becouse you didnt get the latest firmwear update. I suppose your to carry your home computer on your back with you. A $ 200 papper weight,. Then, to add insult to injury, they make it as difficult,if not impossible, to unsubscribe from automatic billing. Do not buy this product. Buyer bewear!
I guess I need to try mine again. It’s been a while.
My credit card was hacked and that ended my subscription luckily. You otherwise have to call them to cancel it. They blew up my phone with phone calls, texts and emails for months trying to get me back. The Iridium network is higher up, more satellites and just works more reliably, less problems in vegetation, longer contact period, faster transmission. The tracking on the SpotX isn’t good and the compass depletes the battery fast. The Inreach Mini 2 seems best overall. The Garmin 67i has awesome mapping and stand alone capability from your phone and you message phone numbers directly, no need to make contacts and have your friends using an APP to receive or send messages.