I also chose the Garmin inReach Messenger over the Mini for several reasons, and your video reinforced my decision, especially regarding its integration with the Edge 1040 solar. Given that I hike, cycle, and kayak, carrying a larger GPS device isn't always practical. The Messenger is compact yet powerful, making it a versatile choice. The Messenger's superior antenna and extended battery life are crucial for my extended trips. The reverse charging capability is another game-changer, allowing me to power up my phone or headlamp in emergencies. While the Mini has its strengths, the Messenger’s battery life and antenna performance give it the edge. For navigation, I use my GPSMAP and Edge 1040 during activities that benefit from their specialized capabilities. For emergency navigation, my Epix Pro and phone are more than adequate. This setup covers all my navigation needs without missing the Mini’s waypoint features. If you already have Garmin devices without inReach, I highly recommend Messenger. It’s a versatile, reliable choice for staying connected and safe during various outdoor activities. Thanks for the great insights in your video!
Thanks for the great detailed review. I have the inReach Mini 2 and I love it. I live near a state forest where there isn't cell signal so I take my inReach with me on every ride in the event I break down or have a medical issue. I do wish Garmin would allow the middle plan to send tracks in shorter intervals than 10 mins though. I always pair it with my iPhone and that is how my wife and I communicate on day long rides.
Appreciate the review, thorough but not dragged out. Recently purchased the InReach Messenger and this video really helped explain it's features. Definitely not crazy about the subscription price/activation fee but the device will give my SO piece of mind when travel to remote locations.
Great video, Neil! I'm still using an InReach Explorer. Wish it had better battery life and was lighter and smaller (in that order), but since it works fine otherwise I'm not yet ready to purchase something new. Thanks again for these helpful reviews and hope you have a great 2023. Cheers,
Just bought messenger, heading out to Montana, family trip to Glacier. Stay tuned.....Update - device works great! Great tracking as we drove to Big Sky Montana. Today, will use while hiking.
I am using the original Garmin InReach Mini. Why? Because it works perfectly fine and always has for years. I don't use the tracking features ever so I just keep it off in my bag no matter the activity (skiing, backcountry touring, bikepacking, gravel rides, hiking, backpacking, road trips, etc). When I want to send a check-in, I just power it on, let it get connected and send my message. Works great!
OK so let's say you go out on a trip and die. How would anybody know where you are if tracking is not on? Not that it matters much, you're dead, but tracking would likely pinpoint your carcass for disposal vs consumption by wild animals. Seems like you should be using the #2 feature the device provides, after SOS which you wouldn't be able to use.
Satellite network does make a difference. Iridium is superior. I have a Zoleo since their launch. Like it but the Garmin messenger has some advantages except the Zoleo app is a better in messaging via the phone. Great review. I have an iPhone 14 and the sat SOS is not anywhere near as capable as a full on sat messenger. Yet.
I'm still using my Delorme InReach. Why? It still works (great, too) and it was on a crazy sale because it was in stock somewhere long after Garmin bought them and had their own version. Fortunately thenold Delorme units are still supported... and working great! 😎
How do you carry it on your bike? It looks like it doesn't have any attachment or mounting points. Are you able to give it a clear eyeline to the sky? Or do you have to keep it in a bag?
I'm considering the messenger. Up 'til now I've relied on a NOAA PLB (RescueMe) that's only for sos/location but needs no monthly subscription. Its battery is about to die (after 7 years!) hence my thoughts about maybe moving up to a Garmin. I also have an Edge 1040 now where I used to run a Wahoo - and have been doing more long distance bikepacking. Not necessarily out of cell range that much here on the east coast but it would be nice to share location data in a way that won't drain my iPhone battery.
Thanks for the helpful video! I've looked everywhere for an answer to this question, and still can't find anyone talking about it! Sometimes I trek with my wife, and sometimes one of us goes backpackin solo. Is there a way to unpair the inreach messenger from my phone and pair it with her phone instead so she can take it out when I'm not with her? Thanks in advance!
Great video and review. Clear and honest! Definitely thinking of getting one. Can the little Messenger screen get basic text weather updates or do you have to have the Garmin app for that? Thanks from the UK - Ben 👍🇬🇧
Troy, good question. I should have mentioned that I almost always carry it in my hip pack, which means it usually is on its side, and works. It also has a little spot for a lanyard in the corner, but I doubt that would help much. For ultra racing, this thing is a game changer.
I do wish there was some sort of pouch or clip like Mini have to keep it on my person. If I got thrown off my bike and am unable to move, how do I get over to the Messenger on my bike to hit the SOS button?
Is there any product that allows the Garmin InReach Messenger to be mounted on the handlebars or on aerobats or on a Garmin Edge quarter turn mount? Thanks.
I will still take my InReach Explorer..Way too many options for me...Love Garmin for always coming out with new products that enable like minded friends many choices to fit their needs.
Where does it states that there is an upfront cost of 30USD to activate the device? I'm deciding to buy this or the inReach mini 2 but that cost is not mention for neither of those at their web page. Does any one who have use any of these can confirm this?
Dumb question - when tracking my location, does that send to everyone in your contact list? How can I share my tracking intervals to others in my contact list? I want to provide my location when touring but I’m not sure who is getting the notifications when I hit “start tracking” - thanks!
I do not have a satellite device but I have a new iPhone that has a Satellite function. The function can be used in an emergency and you can be tracked via the Find My app (Haven’t done this yet). This seems to me to be a potential replacement for these separate devices. Am I missing something?
Nice review. Too bad Garmin is refusing to let the Messenger app support anything other than next gen devices contrary to their launch announcement. GPSMAP 66i? Nope. But the nearly identical 67i, sure. :-( Bad Garmin. Oh, and they will have to use something other than Dark Sky. Apple is shutting it down. API access shut down end of March if I recall correctly
in reach messenger...never worked and now I'm on the hook to pay $25 monthly for a year! No help from garmin, but they want their monthly payment! garbage!
Great, concise review. I love that you used a well used device. Shows that it's actually, well, used, unlike most "reviews".
I also chose the Garmin inReach Messenger over the Mini for several reasons, and your video reinforced my decision, especially regarding its integration with the Edge 1040 solar. Given that I hike, cycle, and kayak, carrying a larger GPS device isn't always practical. The Messenger is compact yet powerful, making it a versatile choice.
The Messenger's superior antenna and extended battery life are crucial for my extended trips. The reverse charging capability is another game-changer, allowing me to power up my phone or headlamp in emergencies. While the Mini has its strengths, the Messenger’s battery life and antenna performance give it the edge.
For navigation, I use my GPSMAP and Edge 1040 during activities that benefit from their specialized capabilities. For emergency navigation, my Epix Pro and phone are more than adequate. This setup covers all my navigation needs without missing the Mini’s waypoint features.
If you already have Garmin devices without inReach, I highly recommend Messenger. It’s a versatile, reliable choice for staying connected and safe during various outdoor activities. Thanks for the great insights in your video!
Thanks for the great detailed review. I have the inReach Mini 2 and I love it. I live near a state forest where there isn't cell signal so I take my inReach with me on every ride in the event I break down or have a medical issue. I do wish Garmin would allow the middle plan to send tracks in shorter intervals than 10 mins though. I always pair it with my iPhone and that is how my wife and I communicate on day long rides.
Agreed, I wish they had a tracking heavy plan, where the messages are more limited. Thanks for watching.
Appreciate the review, thorough but not dragged out. Recently purchased the InReach Messenger and this video really helped explain it's features. Definitely not crazy about the subscription price/activation fee but the device will give my SO piece of mind when travel to remote locations.
in-depth.. tells me what I need to know.. no wasteful yapping.. nerdy. 10/10 again. great vid!
Great video, Neil! I'm still using an InReach Explorer. Wish it had better battery life and was lighter and smaller (in that order), but since it works fine otherwise I'm not yet ready to purchase something new. Thanks again for these helpful reviews and hope you have a great 2023. Cheers,
Just bought messenger, heading out to Montana, family trip to Glacier. Stay tuned.....Update - device works great! Great tracking as we drove to Big Sky Montana. Today, will use while hiking.
I like how your hat says S O S for this episode! Lol. Cheers.
Another excellent review, thank you Neil
I am using the original Garmin InReach Mini. Why? Because it works perfectly fine and always has for years. I don't use the tracking features ever so I just keep it off in my bag no matter the activity (skiing, backcountry touring, bikepacking, gravel rides, hiking, backpacking, road trips, etc). When I want to send a check-in, I just power it on, let it get connected and send my message. Works great!
OK so let's say you go out on a trip and die. How would anybody know where you are if tracking is not on? Not that it matters much, you're dead, but tracking would likely pinpoint your carcass for disposal vs consumption by wild animals. Seems like you should be using the #2 feature the device provides, after SOS which you wouldn't be able to use.
cool piece of tech, could be a life saver, thanks Neil
Got a Messenger, very happy with that. Very fast and reliable. Great connection with Fenix7X. Amazing battery. Thank you for your review.
Satellite network does make a difference. Iridium is superior. I have a Zoleo since their launch. Like it but the Garmin messenger has some advantages except the Zoleo app is a better in messaging via the phone. Great review. I have an iPhone 14 and the sat SOS is not anywhere near as capable as a full on sat messenger. Yet.
I'm still using my Delorme InReach. Why? It still works (great, too) and it was on a crazy sale because it was in stock somewhere long after Garmin bought them and had their own version. Fortunately thenold Delorme units are still supported... and working great! 😎
Garmin said my original InReach could NOT be fixed. So I got a SPOT. But my original SPOT still does work.
Great devices for piece of mine on those way back bike exploration routes.
How do you carry it on your bike? It looks like it doesn't have any attachment or mounting points. Are you able to give it a clear eyeline to the sky? Or do you have to keep it in a bag?
That was very helpful. Thanks
I'm considering the messenger. Up 'til now I've relied on a NOAA PLB (RescueMe) that's only for sos/location but needs no monthly subscription. Its battery is about to die (after 7 years!) hence my thoughts about maybe moving up to a Garmin. I also have an Edge 1040 now where I used to run a Wahoo - and have been doing more long distance bikepacking. Not necessarily out of cell range that much here on the east coast but it would be nice to share location data in a way that won't drain my iPhone battery.
A star chart navigation feature in the app would be great entertainment around the campfire.
Thanks for the helpful video! I've looked everywhere for an answer to this question, and still can't find anyone talking about it! Sometimes I trek with my wife, and sometimes one of us goes backpackin solo. Is there a way to unpair the inreach messenger from my phone and pair it with her phone instead so she can take it out when I'm not with her? Thanks in advance!
Great video and review. Clear and honest! Definitely thinking of getting one. Can the little Messenger screen get basic text weather updates or do you have to have the Garmin app for that? Thanks from the UK - Ben 👍🇬🇧
So where do you carry it? The lack of any mount or loops for a strap make it challenging on a bike. Otherwise, it's very compelling.
Troy, good question. I should have mentioned that I almost always carry it in my hip pack, which means it usually is on its side, and works. It also has a little spot for a lanyard in the corner, but I doubt that would help much. For ultra racing, this thing is a game changer.
Hello, could you please elaborate on how this is a game changer for ultras?
I do wish there was some sort of pouch or clip like Mini have to keep it on my person. If I got thrown off my bike and am unable to move, how do I get over to the Messenger on my bike to hit the SOS button?
Is there any product that allows the Garmin InReach Messenger to be mounted on the handlebars or on aerobats or on a Garmin Edge quarter turn mount? Thanks.
Thank you so much!!!
I will still take my InReach Explorer..Way too many options for me...Love Garmin for always coming out with new products that enable like minded friends many choices to fit their needs.
Where does it states that there is an upfront cost of 30USD to activate the device? I'm deciding to buy this or the inReach mini 2 but that cost is not mention for neither of those at their web page. Does any one who have use any of these can confirm this?
Dumb question - when tracking my location, does that send to everyone in your contact list? How can I share my tracking intervals to others in my contact list? I want to provide my location when touring but I’m not sure who is getting the notifications when I hit “start tracking” - thanks!
Is there a way to secure this to the outside of my bags.? The mini has a reliable clip.
I was wondering this too
Can I pair it with phone and also connect with Foretrex 801 via Ant+
So I can have it kimd off on both?
looking forward to a motorola defy satellite link review/comparison with this one
I’m waiting from them to become available! I’ll buy one asap.
@@BIKEPACKINGcomI’m waiting to see if they still work after the parent company’s bankruptcy!
I do not have a satellite device but I have a new iPhone that has a Satellite function. The function can be used in an emergency and you can be tracked via the Find My app (Haven’t done this yet). This seems to me to be a potential replacement for these separate devices. Am I missing something?
You’re missing the ability to send/receive messages when there is no cell coverage. Maybe the iPhone will offer this feature in the future.
Nice review. Too bad Garmin is refusing to let the Messenger app support anything other than next gen devices contrary to their launch announcement. GPSMAP 66i? Nope. But the nearly identical 67i, sure. :-( Bad Garmin.
Oh, and they will have to use something other than Dark Sky. Apple is shutting it down. API access shut down end of March if I recall correctly
Looks like it wants to live in a zipper sandwich bag when you're not using it. (Or maybe nick-name the thing "Sandy") Invasion of the covered ports.
I like the Messenger, but I'm still using the original In-Reach and have no intention of dropping another $300
in reach messenger...never worked and now I'm on the hook to pay $25 monthly for a year! No help from garmin, but they want their monthly payment! garbage!
First comment! Woo hoo
Garmin sucks
hahaha true that xD
But Neil, you're awesome
Is there a monthly or weekly service plan? I would only use this thing like twice a year.
According to its webpage there are various options for monthly subscription.
Do the receiver have to pay for messages replied and do they need to download the app as well? Thanks!