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Garmin inReach Messenger Rugged Satellite Communicator for Global Messaging

Garmin inReach Messenger Rugged Satellite Communicator for Global Messaging

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$299.99at House of ScubaChecked Nov 14

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Price facts

  • Last seen at $299.99 at House of Scuba on Nov 14.

Our take on the Garmin inReach Messenger Rugged Satellite Communicator for Global Messaging

The Garmin inReach Messenger is a palm-sized satellite communicator that sends two-way text messages over the Iridium network when cell service is gone. The Garmin Messenger app routes messages over cellular when available and switches to satellite automatically, and it supports group threads and a check-in message. An interactive SOS button reaches Garmin's 24/7 response center. It is the smallest and simplest device in Garmin's inReach line, with no mapping screen, so it suits hikers, paddlers and overlanders who want messaging and SOS rather than navigation. Owners like the pocketable size and long battery life; the main complaints are the subscription needed to use it and slow satellite message delivery.

Best forBackcountry hikers and climbers who want SOS without a GPS map screenTravelers heading beyond cell coverageFamilies who want a simple check-in deviceOverlanders and boaters as a backup to a phone
Pros
  • Two-way satellite texting plus interactive SOS
  • Automatic cellular-to-satellite switching through the app
  • Group messaging and one-touch check-in
  • Up to 28 days of battery life
  • Small and light enough to carry every day
Cons
  • Requires a paid satellite subscription to work
  • No map screen or navigation like the inReach Explorer or Mini 2
  • Satellite messages can take a minute or more to send
  • SOS and messaging depend on a clear view of the sky

Garmin inReach Messenger Rugged Satellite Communicator for Global Messaging prices at every store

  • House of ScubaNew

    In stockReturn policy

    $299.99Checked Nov 14
    Visit House of Scuba

What reviewers say

Owners treat the inReach Messenger as a reliable safety and messaging backup, praising its size, battery and simple app. Complaints center on the subscription cost and the slower pace of satellite messages compared with texting.

What people mention
  • BatteryPraisedOwners report it lasts days or weeks between charges on normal messaging use.
  • SizePraisedReviewers like that it fits in a pocket or pack lid and adds little weight.
  • SubscriptionCriticisedBuyers dislike that the device is useless without a recurring satellite plan.
  • Messaging speedMixedSatellite texts arrive, but users say sending can take a minute or more.
  • SOSPraisedOwners value the interactive SOS and check-in as a safety net off-grid.
  • NavigationCriticisedSome wish it had maps or tracking features found on other inReach models.

About the Garmin inReach Messenger Rugged Satellite Communicator for Global Messaging

The Garmin inReach Messenger is a compact satellite communicator for two-way text messaging when there is no cellular coverage. It pairs with the Garmin Messenger app on a compatible smartphone. It uses the phone's cellular connection when one is available and switches to the global Iridium satellite network when it isn't. An active satellite subscription is required, with an annual or month-to-month plan.

The device can send an interactive SOS to Garmin Response, a 24/7-staffed emergency response coordination center. You can share your location through a MapShare page or with GPS coordinates embedded in messages. The Garmin Messenger app supports group message threading and can sync with your smartphone's contacts list. Check-in messages do not count toward your allotted text messages.

The device is impact-resistant and rated IPX7 for water. Its memory-in-pixel screen confirms that messages were sent and shows replies. Safety charging lets you connect the device to your phone so you can send a custom text message from the phone's touchscreen if the phone's battery dies. TracBack routing navigates you back to your starting point the way you came. The device also provides inReach weather forecasts for your current location, waypoints or destinations on your itinerary. You can control it remotely from compatible Garmin handhelds, marine equipment, aviation equipment, wearables and other select smart devices.

Dimensions
3.1" x 2.5" x 0.9" (7.8 x 6.4 x 2.3 cm)
Weight
4 oz (113.9 g)
Water rating
IPX7
Lens material
Chemically strengthened glass
Display type
Sunlight-readable, monochrome, transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP)
Display size
1" x 0.43", 1.08" diagonal (2.53 x 1.1 cm, 2.74 cm diagonal)
Resolution
160 x 68 pixels
Battery type
Rechargeable internal lithium-ion

Questions and answers

Do I need a subscription to use it?
Yes. Messaging and SOS run over the Iridium network and require an active inReach satellite plan. Without one, the device cannot send messages.
How is it different from the inReach Mini 2?
The Mini 2 adds GPS navigation, tracking and a small map-capable screen. The Messenger is smaller, simpler and focused on messaging and SOS, with a longer battery rating.
Can I send messages without a phone?
Yes. You can send preset messages and trigger SOS from the device itself. Full two-way texting and group chats work through the Garmin Messenger app on a paired phone.
Does it work everywhere in the world?
It uses the Iridium satellite network, which covers the globe, including polar regions. You still need a clear view of the sky for messages to go through.
What is in the box?
The communicator, a USB-C charging cable and documentation. A phone is not included, and the app is a free download.
How long does the battery last?
Garmin rates it at up to 28 days with the default 10-minute tracking interval. Heavy messaging and SOS use shorten that considerably.
Where is the Garmin inReach Messenger Rugged Satellite Communicator for Global Messaging cheapest?
At House of Scuba, for $299.99, as of our latest check.

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Battery life
Up to 28 days with a message or location sent every 10 minutes with full sky view (up to 14 days with moderate tree cover). Up to 6 days at every 2 minutes (up to 3 days with moderate tree cover). Up
Interface
USB-C
Navigation systems
GPS, Galileo
Network
Iridium satellite network; uses smartphone cellular connection when available
Subscription
Active satellite subscription required; annual or month-to-month plan
Compatibility
Garmin Messenger app on a compatible smartphone; select Garmin handhelds, marine equipment, aviation equipment, wearables and other smart devices
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