Does the inReach Messenger work without a phone?

Yes. You can send and receive messages and trigger SOS from the device itself, though the small screen makes longer messages easier in the Garmin Messenger app.

Do I need a subscription?

Yes. Satellite messaging, tracking, location sharing and SOS require an active inReach service plan.

How long does the battery last?

Garmin rates it up to 28 days with 10-minute tracking, and shorter with heavier messaging or tracking use.

It carries an IPX7 rating, so it survives accidental immersion in water.

How does it compare with a Garmin handheld GPS?

It is smaller and lighter and focuses on messaging and SOS, but it has no topographic maps or full navigation screen like a handheld GPS.

The device, a charging cable and documentation; the Garmin Messenger app is a free download.

Where can I buy the Garmin inReach Messenger satelliittiviestintälaite?

4 stores we checked sell it, including Overland Kings, Art's Cyclery, CTC Offroad, Amazon.

Garmin inReach Messenger satelliittiviestintälaite

Q: Where is the Garmin inReach Messenger satelliittiviestintälaite cheapest?

At Art's Cyclery, for $299.99, as of our latest check.

Best price now

$299.99at Art's CycleryChecked Nov 11

Compared across 4 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

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What reviewers say

Owners treat the inReach Messenger as a reliable safety and messaging backup for trips beyond cell coverage. They like the small size, long battery life and the SOS peace of mind, but note that messaging is easier in the app than on the tiny screen and that the subscription is an ongoing cost.

What people mention

Size and weightPraisedOwners say it disappears into a pack or pocket and is easy to carry on every trip.
Battery lifePraisedReviewers report the battery lasts through multi-day outings with tracking enabled.
SOS and safetyPraisedBuyers value the interactive SOS and location sharing as a safety net for remote trips.
DisplayCriticisedThe small built-in screen makes reading and composing messages awkward, so most people use the phone app.
SubscriptionCriticisedOwners point out that satellite messaging and SOS require an ongoing service plan.
Message speedMixedSatellite messages can take longer to arrive than cell texts, which some find frustrating in a hurry.

About the Garmin inReach Messenger satelliittiviestintälaite

The Garmin inReach Messenger is a compact satellite communicator for hiking, camping and other situations where cell coverage isn't always available. It sends two-way messages over the global Iridium satellite network. It also offers location sharing and an interactive SOS function.

With the Garmin Messenger app, messages can travel over either the mobile or the satellite network, and the app supports group messages. You can check message delivery and read replies on the device's own screen without a phone. Interactive SOS reaches the Garmin Response coordination center, which operates around the clock.

You can share your location with MapShare or with GPS coordinates attached to messages. TracBack routing helps you return to your starting point along the same route. The device has an IPX7 water resistance rating and a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The battery can also charge a compatible phone.

Dimensions

7.8 x 6.4 x 2.3 cm

Weight

113.9 g

Display

Sunlight-readable monochrome MIP display, 2.53 x 1.1 cm, 2.74 cm diagonal, 160 x 68 pixels

Screen glass

Chemically strengthened glass

Water resistance

IPX7

Satellite network

Global Iridium network