Best Overall Satellite Messenger
Category: Two-way
Weight: 3.5 oz.
Satellite network: Iridium
What we like: Lightweight, bang-up battery life, and amply functional as a standalone device.
What we don’t: Garmin ’ s subscription service is costly .
Most backcountry enthusiasts are looking for a streamlined, durable satellite messenger that enables them to communicate from the quilt of their smartphone, and the Garmin inReach Mini puts it all in concert better than most. At good 3.5 ounces, the Mini ties for the lightest device here ( along with the Bivy Stick below ), but it ’ s besides one of the most capable. You get connection to the Iridium satellite network ( widely accepted as the most authentic coverage ), an impressive battery liveliness, and a modest display and relatively easy-to-learn interface that keep the Mini amply functional tied if your smartphone bites the dust. tack on features like weather forecast, location trailing and share, and maps and navigation via the Garmin Earthmate app, and the Mini is the full moon box for most backcountry-goers .
It speaks volumes that we see the inReach Mini being used in the battlefield more than any other device, but there are a few downsides to the blueprint. First off, Garmin ’ s subscription plans are costly, specially for those who only want to use their messenger a few times a year. For exemplar, a month on the most basic freedom plan will run you about $ 50 ( a $ 34.95 annual program fee plus a $ 14.95 monthly fee ), whereas 20 credits on the Bivy Stick cost just $ 18. Further, while the Mini ’ randomness battery life is more than enough for most, stepping up to the inReach Explorer+ will get you notably more power ( for a weight and price punishment ). last, if you like to systematically go sans smartphone, the expand interfaces of the SPOT X and Explorer+ will make life easier ( the latter offers nice glove-friendly buttons besides ). But gripes away, the inReach Mini is the complete package for trail runners, weight-conscious climbers, thru-hikers, and more, and the price is fair at $ 350.
See the Garmin inReach Mini
A Close Second (for $70 Less)
Category: Two-way
Weight: 4 oz.
Satellite network: Iridium
What we like: Incredibly easy to use and the summation of cellular/WiFi documentation.
What we don’t: No unlimited preset messages or check-ins .
Somewear doesn ’ t have the name recognition of brands like Garmin or SPOT, but their ball-shaped Hotspot was one of the best-performing satellite messengers we tested and a great rate at just $ 280. What sets the Somewear apart most is its incredibly simple, easy-to-learn interface that makes message and acquiring the latest weather forecast a breeze. Further, with a relatively light 4-ounce build and compendious shape factor, it ’ mho streamlined so far still wholly backcountry-ready with good weather resistance and try certifications for shock and vibrations ( IP68 ). finally, unlike the Garmin above, the Global Hotspot ’ s app is compatible with cellular and WiFi networks—a capital feature of speech that provides seamless communication for those who frequently move in and out of service, including thru-hikers, international travelers, and those that live in rural areas .
To add to our praise, the Somewear Global Hotspot has one of the most low-cost subscription services here, with a simple $ 25 energizing fee ( for the base-level plans ) and the option of an “ ultralight ” annual subscription of good $ 8.33 per month. Bumping up to a slightly more expensive plan will get you the tractability to put your contract on keep without the suspension or flex design fees we see from the likes of Garmin and SPOT. The alone major downside to the Somewear ’ sulfur purpose is the lack of inexhaustible preset messages or check-ins, which are helpful for staying in equal while keeping costs low ( you get 75 location shares per month in the ultralight plan ). And unlike the inReach, you ’ ll have to bring your smartphone along in order to use most functions. But there ’ second still a lot to love about the Somewear, particularly for those that aren ’ metric ton peculiarly tech-savvy, making it one of our darling satellite messengers of the year.
See the Somewear Global Hotspot
Best Payment Plan for Occasional Use
Category: Two-way
Weight: 3.5 oz.
Satellite network: Iridium
What we like: Credit-based plan is a bang-up prize for infrequent users.
What we don’t: Unrefined app and middling performance .
If you go off the power system a set with your satellite messenger, it ‘s probable deserving it to keep your device activated year-round with an annual plan. But for those who get out lone a few times a class, the fees associated with subscriptions can add up cursorily. It ’ s for this reason that we actually like the Bivy Stick : you pay per credit ( one credit is equal to one infection, such as one message sent or received, one weather bode, one location share, one hour of track, etc. ) on a monthly footing, with no energizing fees, flex plan fees, or multi-month commitments. Compared to the about $ 50 load associated with starting up a identical basic Garmin plan for a calendar month, the Bivy Stick ’ s $ 18 for 20 credits ( or $ 50 for outright credits ) is very refresh and a much easier pill to swallow for many .
The Bivy Stick holds up in other metrics excessively : it ’ south identical in slant to the inReach Mini above and offers the same basic features, including two-way message, upwind forecasts, and location partake and chase. It besides connects to the Iridium net, which, in hypothesis, means ace infection amphetamine and dependability. In practice, however, the device was a little disappoint : the app is very busy and unrefined, and the Bivy Stick much was slower to send and receive messages when tested back-to-back with the Garmin and Somewhere above. That said, there ’ s no traverse that it ’ s an excellent value for those who only get out every sol often and will get the job done if you ’ re will to put up with the cumbersome UI.
See the Bivy Stick Satellite Communicator
Best of the Rest
Category: Two-way
Weight: 5.3 oz.
Satellite network: Iridium
What we like: A bipartite messenger for equitable $ 199 ; connects to cellular and WiFi networks.
What we don’t: Heavy and bulky .
ZOLEO ‘s satellite communicator is an appealing budget woof that manages to pack in a functional array of capabilities that belie its sub- $ 200 monetary value tag. Like the inReach Mini above, you get bipartite messaging via a smartphone app, ampere well as inexhaustible location trailing and sharing, weather forecasts via Dark Sky, connection to the Iridium satellite network, and SOS defend from GEOS ( the criterion carrier for search and rescue coordination ). And unlike Garmin products, the ZOLEO app besides allows messaging over cellular and WiFi networks, making it easy to dip in and out of the wilderness with minimal gaps in communication .
There are some tradeoffs to opting for such a budget-oriented model, and the most celebrated is the ZOLEO ’ s fairly bulky build—at 5.3 ounces, it ’ second well heavier and less satiny than the devices above. What ’ s more, unlimited check-ins aren ’ thymine included in the standard plans ( they cost an extra $ 6/month ), and ZOLEO omits maps and navigation, although we prefer to use a smartphone app like Gaia regardless. finally, keep in mind that a minimum subscription of $ 20 a calendar month can truly add up, and those who like to start and stop their serve or use their device for emergencies merely can save money with the Somewear or Bivy Stick. But for merely $ 199, the ZOLEO is a pretty impressive value, and penny pinchers will specially appreciate that you can pack 950 characters into each message ( compared to Garmin ’ s 160 ).
See the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator
Category: Two-way
Weight: 7.5 oz.
Satellite network: Iridium
What we like: An all-in-one GPS device and satellite messenger.
What we don’t: Expensive, intemperate, and not everyone will need the map and navigational features .
Before the chart-topping inReach Mini, there was the inReach Explorer+. Combining bipartite message with a modern GPS hand-held, the Explorer+ is the wax software, particularly for those who want to leave their telephone behind. not only can you compose messages and get weather forecasts via the large, glove-friendly buttons and colorful expose, but the Explorer+ is the only messenger here to include detail preloaded topographical maps on the device itself. And Garmin didn ’ thymine intercept there : the grandfather of the inReach collection besides includes a built-in barometric altimeter, grok, and accelerometer ( in accession to GPS ), which gives you far greater accuracy for navigating slippery terrain .
But with a $ 450 price tag and goodly build, you ’ ll necessitate to have a pretty good reason to spring for the Explorer+ over the Mini, specially if you came here looking for a simpleton two-way messenger. One of the most compel arguments is battery liveliness : while the Mini lasts 24 days in exponent save modality, the Explorer+ stays powered for 30. second, with big push buttons, it ’ s a much better choice in cold weather when you ’ re systematically wearing gloves. And finally, if you ’ re not attached to your smartphone, 7.5 ounces for the one device is actually lighter than the 3.5-ounce Mini plus your call ( the iPhone 11, for reference, is 6.8 oz. without a case ). The Explorer+ has gotten a snatch long in the tooth since the advent of the Mini, but for those looking for the functionality of a GPS device alongside a two-way satellite messenger, it ’ s a actually nice option. And it ’ second besides worth taking a front at Garmin ’ s other inReach-equipped GPS devices, including the touch screen Montana 700i and the all-around GPSMAP 66i.
See the Garmin inReach Explorer+
Category: Two-way
Weight: 4 oz.
Satellite network: Intelsat
What we like: Cheap message and stable connection in the United States.
What we don’t: No localization tracking or built-in SOS button ; can be difficult to obtain a connection .
Higher ground ’ mho SatPaq is a unique two-way messenger that uses slenderly different technology than the other devices here. rather of connecting to low-Earth orb satellite networks like Iridium and Globalstar, the SatPaq uses a series of geostationary satellites from Intelsat. In practice, this means a few things : First and foremost, you only get service in the United States. Second, geostationary satellites provide a more coherent connection than LEO satellites, although initiating the connection can be a challenge ( you actually have to aim the SatPaq ’ s antenna ). ultimately, Intelsat offers a more low-cost service, which immediately translates to Higher Ground ’ s bargain-basement fees. Compared to the Bivy Stick above ( our darling plan for sporadic use ), the SatPaq is notably cheaper, costing anywhere from $ 0.18 to $ 0.37 per message versus the Bivy ’ s $ 1 ( bonus : the message bundles don ’ deoxythymidine monophosphate exhale for a class ) .
similar to messengers like the ZOLEO, Bivy Stick, and Somewear, the Higher Ground SatPaq pairs with a smartphone app for two-way texting, check-in messages, weather bode, and SOS. importantly, you don ’ metric ton get tracking, although you can partake your location in a message to your contacts or via Twitter. early differences include no SOS button on the device itself—meaning that if your smartphone dies, you ’ re out of luck—and an extra fee for contacting rescue services ( to the tune of 70 messages ). In the conclusion, The SatPaq is an intriguing alternative to the models above for those who don ’ thyroxine design to leave the States ( it works in Alaska and Hawaii excessively ). But in most cases, we prefer to stick with devices that utilize the more reliable and widespread Iridium network.
See the Higher background SatPaq
Category: Two-way
Weight: 7 oz.
Satellite network: Globalstar
What we like: An easy to use standalone device with a full QWERTY keyboard.
What we don’t: Heavy, awkward keys, and Globalstar ’ s coverage international relations and security network ’ thymine equally comprehensive examination as Iridium ’ mho .
position devices were made celebrated ( or ill-famed ) early on for their significance in accidental SOS calls and non-emergent rescue initiations, but they ’ ve come a long way since their beginnings in 2007. Their ten here is a bipartite messenger most like to the Garmin inReach Mini above in terms of design and features. Unlike the Mini, however, the X boasts a full QWERTY keyboard, meaning you can type messages, voyage between waypoints with the built-in grok, and scroll through textbook chains without the motivation for a smartphone. And along with the SOS release, you besides get the choice of SPOT ’ sulfur S.O.V. ( “ Save Our Vehicle ” ) sport, which sends your alert out to Nation Safe Drivers for seasonably vehicle aid ( extra subscription required ) —all for $ 100 less than the Mini .
however, after using the SPOT X as our primary satellite messenger this past summer, we hesitate to give it glowing reviews, specially given the impressive competition above. For one, the keys are awkward ( our “ a ” key was about despicable ) and the computer slowly, which makes for burdensome typing. To be fair, the ten does pair with a smartphone, but at 7 ounces for the device alone, that ’ s a reasonably heavy combination. second, SPOT uses the Globalstar satellite net rather than Iridium, which proved to be perceptibly slower and less dependable in our testing ( you can see a serve function here ). And to make matters worse, SPOT ’ s subscription design is one of the more expensive available, similar to the likes of Garmin with activation fees, flex plan fees, and more. All told, the SPOT X will likely get the job done when you need it, but it plainly doesn ’ deoxythymidine monophosphate measure up against the more refined messengers above.
See the SPOT X 2-Way Satellite Messenger
Category: One-way
Weight: 5 oz.
Satellite network: Globalstar
What we like: Simple, cheap, and enough options to communicate reasonably nuanced information.
What we don’t: only one-way messenger on our list .
The majority of satellite messengers are two-way communicators that offer convenient smartphone pair, but the SPOT Gen4 does neither. With a dim-witted five-button, display-free interface that operates entirely as a standalone device, the Gen4 ’ s functionality is limited to simple check-in messages, placement trailing, SOS, Help ( this option alerts friends and family preferably than SAR ), and SPOT ’ s Save Our Vehicle feature. In essence, this is SPOT ’ s advanced take on a personal locator radio beacon ( PLB ). But despite its chasteness, we think it ’ s a bang-up hand brake backup for a draw of people. not to mention, the Gen4 costs only $ 150, making it the most low-cost satellite messenger here .
A one-way messenger is undeniably limited, but SPOT has built in a fortune of likely for nuanced communication with the Gen4, including three distinct help options and two offprint preset messages. For example, one could say, “ I ’ molarity doing great and all is going according to plan, ” while the early reads, “ My path has changed, but no motivation to worry. ” The Gen4 is besides a great cock for tracking, with the choice between 2.5, 10, 20, and 60-minute intervals and a farseeing battery liveliness aided by the elementary design. But it ’ second hard to go rear once you experience the appliance of a bipartisan messenger, and with no blind, you ‘ll have to decipher the SPOT ‘s blinking lights to determine if your message has been sent. ultimately, keep in mind that many of the lapp gripes we have with the SPOT X above are besides applicable to the Gen4, including an expensive subscription plan and Globalstar ’ s sparser coverage.
See the SPOT Gen4 Satellite GPS Messenger
Satellite Messenger Comparison Table
Satellite Messenger Buying Advice
What is a Satellite Messenger?
A satellite messenger is a humble but brawny cock that allows you to stay connected in areas without cellular reception. rather of using cell towers, satellite messengers rely on satellites, which means you can connect in the majority of places on Earth angstrom long as you have a clean line of sight to the flip. specifically designed for outdoor adventurers, these compendious and lightweight devices work alone or pair with your smartphone to send and receive messages, dispatch SOS alerts and location coordinates, transmit live tracks, get the latest weather bode, and more. Unlike standard GPS devices, each messenger here uses a secret system of satellites and thereby requires a subscription in order to operate ( alike to a cell plan ). The engineering continues to improve, and in 2021, there ’ s an choice for closely everyone, whether you ’ re a serious adventurer headed out on a big dispatch, a nonmigratory of a rural area looking to stay connected, or a weekend warrior wanting an extra meter of safety .
From left to right: the SPOT X, Garmin inReach Mini, Bivy Stick, and Garmin inReach Explorer+
One-Way vs. Two-Way Messengers
Whereas personal locator beacons ( PLBs ) can merely transmit SOS signals ( more on this under ), a shaping feature of all of the satellite messengers hera is the ability to communicate more nuanced data. This can be very helpful for getting in touch in non-emergent situations, sending out hot tracks or requesting weather forecasts, transmitting updates to SAR teams during rescue attempts, and more. These more capable devices can be far broken down into two independent categories : one-way and two-way messengers.
One-Way Messengers
One-way satellite messengers are the more basic option, epitomized by the SPOT Gen4. These devices have limited functionality, including an SOS button and the ability to send a few separate preset messages and your GPS coordinates to a list of predetermine earphone numbers or e-mail addresses. importantly, one-way devices do not allow you to type out a unique message and can not receive any input. A one-way device is a clear mistreat up from a “ no news is good news ” PLB, but your ability to communicate is still identical limited.
Two-Way Messengers
On the other hand, bipartisan devices ( which comprise the majority of our list ) can both send and receive nuanced data, akin to the texting capabilities of a cell call. You get a convenient user interface excessively : most of these messengers have big screens or copulate with your smartphone, which is a big gradation up from a standalone device with equitable a few buttons. The benefits of two-way satellite messengers are apparently endless : you can reservoir weather reports, communicate detailed logistics information, say hi to friends and family, navigate using built-in mapping tools, and much more .
Two-way messaging with the Garmin inReach Mini
Satellite Messenger Features
SOS
One of the basal reasons for bringing a satellite messenger into the field is the extra measurement of safety that it provides. All of the devices here include an SOS button—when pressed, the device sends your placement to a secret search and rescue service ( the standard bearers are GEOS and Global Rescue ), alerting them that help is needed. These services are staffed 24/7 by discipline responders who relay your request to local anesthetic search and rescue teams, in addition to continuing to track your device and react to messages ( in the subject of bipartite messengers ). In short, if you press the SOS clitoris on your device, help oneself will come, whether via helicopter, by vehicle, or on infantry .
While it ’ south comforting to know that you can call for help, there are some authorize disadvantages to the SOS sport. In holocene years, we ’ ve listen fib after history of individuals using this service in non-emergent situations or pressing the button unintentionally. An SOS call is worth taking highly seriously—once you make it, many people will start to rally on your behalf ( and in many cases, your rescue bill will start to rack up ). For this cause, most modern satellite messengers have made accidental SOS requests difficult—on the Garmin inReach Mini, for case, you must first lift a protective cover and then weight-lift and hold the SOS button. notably, the one-way SPOT Gen4 has added Help and S.O.V. ( Save Our Vehicle ) buttons in addition to the SOS button, which are a step down from SOS by alerting friends and kin or pinging a road aid service, respectively .
The Somewear Global Hotspot’s SOS button is hidden under the top blue flap Messaging
There are a variety show of ways to communicate using a satellite messenger, including check-ins, preset messages, customs messages, and sociable media updates. Knowing the dispute between these formats is important for getting the most out of your subscription—most plans have limited custom message, including social media updates—with overage fees for each extra message, while check-ins and preset messages are normally outright .
A check-in message is one of the best ways to partake your location with friends and syndicate. In most cases, the accompanying text can be pre-programmed on-line ( for example, “ All is well. No need for aid ! ” ) and includes your GPS coordinates with each dispatch. Preset messages ( SPOT calls them predefined messages ) are besides customized before you leave home, and many devices allow you to program more than one ( Garmin permits up to three at a clock ). We like to use preset messages to say something wholly discrete from the check-in message—it could be a request for a weather prognosis, a eminence that conveys a non-specific travel plan transfer, or a bare “ I love you. ” Finally, all bipartite messengers allow you to send wholly custom messages to any telephone number, e-mail address, or even a social media report, which are normally limited in length ( for model, Garmin ’ s character limit is 160 and Higher Ground ’ mho is 480 ). Unless you have an unlimited design, custom messages ( including incoming messages ) will be counted against your message allotment .
Location Tracking and Sharing
With built-in GPS connectivity, most satellite messengers can track your placement at respective intervals, allowing you to contribution your advance with friends and family or via social media and view your track on a map after your trip. Both tracking and sharing are included in the majority of subscriptions, and spending up will much give you the ability to track at shorter intervals. For case, SPOT ’ s basic plan offers tracking at 10, 30, and 60-minute intervals, while their outright plan allows you to choose among 2.5, 5, 10, 30, and 60 minutes. And with interfaces like Garmin ’ south MapShare, followers can actually ping your device to request your real-time location, which can be helpful if you ’ re excessively busy moving to share .
Selecting the tracking interval on the SPOT X While tracking is a cool feature, it ’ randomness authoritative to keep in mind that it does take its price on barrage liveliness ( particularly if you ’ re using the short intervals ). In the end, we prefer to conserve our satellite messenger for important communications and use a GPS watch to log our route rather ( the downside here is that many watches don ’ thyroxine allow you to share your track in real-time ). But localization sharing however is a cool sport, specially if you have friends, family, or other give fans that want to follow along on your venture. And remember : you don ’ t have to keep your device on at all times or share your entire track in order to keep folks at home updated. As we mentioned above, the majority of subscriptions allow unlimited check-in messages, which come with your localization coordinates attached. This means you can turn on your satellite messenger, send a check-in message to an person or group, and turn off your device to preserve battery life.
Weather Forecasting
Getting up-to-date weather forecasts can make or break an excursion, so most satellite messengers do a great occupation prioritizing this feature of speech. Garmin ’ s inReach products are our front-runner in this respect, with basic, premium, and even marine forecasts for any waypoint you request ( including your stream location ), displayed either on the device or your smartphone. We ’ ve used this instrument both in the Alaska Range and distant areas of the North Cascades and found it to be impressively reliable. Messengers like the Somewear, Bivy Stick, and ZOLEO besides include weather forecast ( like the Garmins above, most of these are powered by Dark Sky ), but the SPOT X and Gen4 notably do not. Keep in mind that weather forecasts are not free and will by and large apply toward your message count—or cost you $ 1 per request in the case of Garmin ’ sulfur agio and marine forecasts. While undertaking serious objectives in high-alpine environments, we ’ ve besides found it prudent to have a point person back home who knows our whereabouts and is able to answer any weather-related questions .
Getting the weather report on Garmin’s inReach Mini Maps and Navigation
Many of the satellite messengers above include navigational features, including preloaded maps or app-based function, the ability to create routes and navigate to waypoints, and more. In this class, the Garmin inReach Explorer+ sits head and shoulders above the rest, with all the capabilities we look for in a standard GPS hand-held : a large discolor display, preloaded topographical maps, and built-in sensors including a barometric altimeter, scope, and accelerometer .
however, maps and seafaring are not features that we think of as peculiarly necessary in a satellite messenger. First and first, using your satellite messenger to navigate will be a huge drain on the battery, and we prefer to conserve our device ’ south world power for emergent situations and necessary communications alternatively. Second, most satellite messengers are plainly no meet for modern smartphones, which outpace every messenger above in terms of seafaring with large and colorful screens, detailed and capable map apps ( Gaia is our front-runner ), and integrated GPS technology. They ’ re even easier to use than the inReach Explorer+, although you don ’ t get the extra sensors. To summarize : navigational tools aren ’ thymine something we tend to look for or rely on in a satellite messenger, although they can be helpful if you leave your smartphone behind .
Standalone vs. Smartphone-Compatible Devices
Depending on the construct and model, you ’ ll either use your satellite messenger alongside your smartphone, as a standalone slice, or choose between the two. As expected, these capabilities correspond to price : the one-way SPOT Gen4 ( $ 150 ) is a simple standalone device with an interface limited to just a few buttons ( i.e., no blind ). Moving up the list, you get barebones bipartisan messengers like the Bivy Stick and Somewear, which can send SOS signals on their own but must be paired with a smartphone for most other functions. finally, splurging for a high-end satellite messenger with a screen and push-button interface ( like the Garmin inReach Explorer+ and inReach Mini ) gives you the best of both worlds : you can carry out most functions from either the device or your smartphone .
There are a number of pros and cons to consider when it comes to user interface. Devices that pair with a smartphone are undeniably easy to use, but with this capability, your chances of encountering technical difficulties increase—instead of fair one battery to preserve and one device to keep safe from the elements, you immediately have two. On the bright side, most messengers are designed to send check-ins and SOS alerts without a smartphone, which is a nice accompaniment ( you just wo n’t be able to access the more complex feature set without a display ). Cost away, we prefer the versatility of messengers that can be used both standalone or paired with a smartphone, such as the aforesaid Garmins .
The Garmin inReach Explorer+ is fully functional without a smartphone
Subscriptions and Credits
Unlike PLBs, which use a populace ( read : free ) satellite arrangement to initiate rescues, the promote technical school of satellite messengers requires a subscription to a private network. It can be a challenge to parse out the differences between the respective fee structures, but in general, we see three independent styles : compromising monthly subscriptions, annual contracts, and credit-based plans. With monthly and annual subscriptions, you ’ ll pay a set-up fee and choose among a range of plans that offer a limited ( or unlimited ) number of messages, location tracking intervals, and more. monthly flex plans typically are more expensive than annual plans, involve an excess tip ( Garmin ’ second is $ 34.95 and SPOT ’ second is $ 24.95 on top of a $ 19.95 energizing fee ), and can be suspended at any prison term. Credit-based plans ( seen with the Bivy Stick and SatPaq ) are much simple and don ’ thymine involve a contract : you get a located sum of credits ( in general, one credit equals one transmission ) that you can use for a month period .
Your conclusion practice will determine what classify of payment plan is the best for you, but there are a few generalizations we can make here. If you don ’ triiodothyronine want to bother with conserve messages, getting an inexhaustible plan for the duration of your clock time in the backcountry ( whether it ’ s a calendar month or a year ) is credibly your best bet. For year-round hand brake use for everything from backcountry skiing to backpack, a basic annual plan or a credit-based servicing like Bivy Stick ’ s make more feel. And if you only need your messenger for a few trips a year, a bend plan ( Garmin has nicknamed theirs “ exemption plans ” ) can be a good idea, although you ’ ll want to pay care to the obscure fees ( we love the Bivy Stick for those activating their device precisely one month out of the year ). All told, the style of subscription or credits included with each device is worth considering and should be a factor in which model you choose.
Weight and Size
As with all gear we take on human-powered adventures, many will besides want to take into history in a satellite messenger ’ randomness weight and size. The devices above range from 3.5 ounces for the Garmin inReach Mini and Bivy Stick to the 7.5-ounce Garmin inReach Explorer+. Keep in mind that if your messenger requires pairing with a smartphone, you ’ ll want to factor in that weight too—for example, our iPhone 11 weighs 8.4 ounces with its case. And size broadly correlates with slant : the inReach Mini and Bivy Stick are slenderly larger than a snickers bar, while the Explorer+ feels like a bulky walkie talking picture. For activities like lead run, backpack, and backcountry skiing, you ’ ll want to prioritize a streamline device, which is why the Mini ( which does n’t necessarily need to be paired with a smartphone ) gets our crown pick .
The Garmin inReach Mini (left) and much larger inReach Explorer+
Satellite Networks
Satellite messengers connect to individual networks of satellite systems, which are designed for communication and data transfer ( unlike the GPS network, which specializes in location pinpoint ). The two independent services are Globalstar and Iridium : Globalstar supports the SPOT devices here, while Iridium is more widely used by Garmin, Bivy Stick, ZOLEO, Somewear, and more. Both networks use low-Earth eye socket satellites, but Iridium ’ randomness network has greater coverage with 66 functional satellites in orbit versus Globalstar ’ s 48. The outlier here is the Higher Ground SatPaq, which uses Intelsat ’ s geostationary Galaxy satellites ( GEO ), which have a more specify orbit higher above the Earth ’ s airfoil. As a consequence, the Higher ground is more reproducible when it latches onto a sign, but has less coverage overall and can only be used in the United States .
The general takeout is that all of the messengers above are capable in most areas of the US, equally long as you have a clear view of the sky. importantly, we have noticed no differentiation in the speed at which devices like the inReach Mini, Bivy Stick, and SPOT X establish connection—they are all fairly equal in this respect. however, if you hope to speculation out ( specially to the oceans or the poles ), Iridium is by far the most reliable serve. And if you plan on getting a SPOT device, it ’ mho worth checking out their coverage map first .
To connect, orient your antenna upwards and obtain a clear view of the sky
Smartphone Apps
For the uninitiate, the first thing we ’ ll note here is that a satellite messenger is not a hot spot that allows you to simply use your smartphone apps ( like messages, Instagram, Facebook, etc. ) as you would with a cellular sign. What a satellite messenger does do is give you access to the greater world via its corresponding app—if you ’ re going to pair your device with your phone, all functions ( including message, map, obtaining weather forecasts, and more ) must be done through the app. Each manufacturer has their own app, all of which are reasonably basic and by and large disappoint in terms of UI, but they get the job done on an interface you ’ re extremely conversant with ( i.e., your own call ) .
It ’ second worth noting that a few apps—including those from ZOLEO, Higher Ground, and Somewear —function on a cellular or wireless local area network network equally well, making messaging seamless for those dipping in and out of overhaul. This international relations and security network ’ t a necessity for most users, but for those systematically moving around the frontcountry and backcountry and wanting to keep their message in one easy-to-read chain ( alternatively of moving back and forth from your standard messages app to your Garmin Earthmate app, for exemplar ), it can be a nice have .
Battery Life
Battery life is a very important consideration in choosing a satellite messenger, as it will be your lifeline in the sheath of an emergency. Battery life can be a desegregate bag depending on how often your device is powered on and what you ’ ra using it for, thus most manufacturers will give a few different specs, including how farseeing the device lasts when powered off, how many messages it can send, and the life while tracking. In general, you can expect the more basic, screenless messengers to have longer lifespans, while colorful screens and a greater range of functions will be a immediate enfeeble on battery life. Activities like localization track and navigation can in truth drain the battery quickly, so we recommend these uses only if you have a way to repower your device, such as a portable might bank ( like Goal Zero ‘s Flip 24 ) or solar panel. And remember that in the case of the non-standalone devices hera, you ’ ll besides want to keep your smartphone powered ( with a much shorter battery life, this will be the truthful restrict component ).
It’s a good idea to bring a portable power bank into the field
Other Remote Communication Options
For those headed into the backcountry on human-powered adventures, satellite messengers are our favored means of communication. They ’ re modest and lightweight so far offer knock-down and timely connectivity in an easy-to-use format. But depending on your needs, it could be worth looking into a few other options as well, including personal locator beacons ( PLBs ) and mobile enmesh network devices .
PLBs are extremely limited one-way devices adequate to of communicating one thing and one thing alone : SOS. As a leave, they can be misused in a variety of ways ( such as calling for emergency aid in non-emergent situations ) and don ’ thymine allow you to communicate with your savior in the case of a true hand brake. however, thanks to their affordability ( no subscription needed ), simplicity, and years-long barrage liveliness, PLBs can serve as capital backup devices. The ACR ResQLink 400 and rescueMe are popular models amongst outdoor adventurers .
Mobile mesh network devices ( Beartooth and the goTenna Mesh are the two most popular ) are a relatively new engineering that allow you to create a network between yourself and other individuals carrying similar devices. Paired with your smartphone, a mesh network device allows you to talk, text, and share locations with other users up to 10 miles away, without the want for cell service or WiFi ( they besides work great in congested areas, such as a festival or sporting event ). We truly like the estimate of mobile net network for basecamp operations and when adventuring in the like areas as friends, but in most situations, they ’ re no substitute for a satellite messenger.
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