In-Depth Garmin Inreach Explorer Review - HikingGuy.com
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The Garmin inReach Explorer is a cutting-edge GPS device that offers advanced navigation and communication features for outdoor enthusiasts. This device uses the Iridium satellite network to provide global two-way messaging, GPS tracking, and interactive SOS capabilities, making it an essential tool for anyone who spends time in remote areas.
One of the standout features of the inReach Explorer is its rugged, durable design. It is built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions and is water-resistant, making it a reliable choice for anyone who spends time in the great outdoors. Additionally, the device has a large color screen that is easy to read even in bright sunlight, and it features a built-in digital compass, barometric altimeter, and accelerometer.
The inReach Explorer also offers a range of advanced communication features. Users can send and receive text messages, emails, and social media updates, as well as track and share their location with family and friends. And in case of an emergency, the device features an interactive SOS function that allows users to contact search and rescue services from anywhere in the world.
If you're looking for a reliable and feature-rich GPS device for your next outdoor adventure, the Garmin inReach Explorer is definitely worth considering. With its durable design, advanced communication features, and interactive SOS capabilities, it's a must-have tool for anyone who wants to stay safe and connected while exploring remote areas. And with its SEO-friendly description, you can be sure that you're reaching a wider audience of potential customers who are searching for high-quality GPS devices online.
Video Guide:
00:19 - What The Garmin InReach Does
02:00 - Unit Walkthrough
03:20 - Garmin Versus Delorme Unit
04:00 - InReach Explorer or SE?
05:00 - Preset Messages
06:14 - Other Messaging Options
07:28 - Mapping & Adding Better Maps
08:12 - Navigation & Sending Tracking Points
11:47 - Satellite Weather
13:54 - Real Life Use & Tips After 4 Months
15:30 - Using the Garmin InReach in an Emergency
19:00 - Garmin InReach & Other PLBs
21:00 - What I Don't Like About the InReach
22:08 - Should You Get the InReach?
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thank you for getting to the point and no unnecessary long intro
Just started watching this. Really good first impression. Presenter is good and clear.
Thank you for a excellent review! keep up the good work!
Great detailed review!! Thank you so much! My Dad just got me one for my Birthday! Yay!
Thanks for the review. I never leave home without it. Road trips, backpacking, hiking, fishing, cruises, etc. It is nice to have the added comfort of potential rescue if needed.
Yea, I know a lot of folks who do the same, especially my pilot buddies.
Very thorough explanation. You sold me on this unit. I’ve had it about a week and already getting the hang of it. Thanks again.
Awesome, glad it was helpful and glad that you're getting the hang of it. Yea, once you get the basics it's pretty straightforward.
Great review. I've wondered what the redesigned Garmin version of that was like. I use the Garmin 62s, DeLorme inReach SE and my cell phone (with Backcountry Navigator) as my tools for navigation and communication in the wild. I absolutely love the DeLorme - a couple of years ago I fell and broke my shoulder on a solo hike, and I was able to send out messages to family to let them know I was badly hurt. Ended up self-rescuing but I was impressed with the product. I carry the inReach SE on every hike now. Thanks for showing what the updated Garmin version is like, as well as what the navigation features are.
That's great to know. I've never had to actually use it for a personal emergency, but I've texted to help others occasionally. And yea, the Garmin is a little better than the DeLorme (I have an SE too), but for the key features, basically the same and not worth upgrading. For a couple of hundred bucks, it's a really powerful resource. I recommend it to everyone.
My wife & sons bought me one of these for Christmas. I haveen’t used it a lot yet, but plan to this weekend on my first backpacking trip of 2020. Thanks for the review.
Nice, have fun, it's a cool piece of gear!
That explained a lot thanks I think this would suit my wife as she often goes of the bird watching here in Australia and oftentimes out of mobile phone reception but unfortunately she struggles with technology and probably not use it. I use a number of Garmin units when riding my ebike through some rough trails in the national parks and find them extremely helpful. Great and easy to understand review. Graeme in OZ
Thank you. This video taught me what I need to know about how to operate the unit on my upcoming trip to the BWCA. Appreciate it!!!
Awesome, glad it was helpful. Have fun in the BWCA, I'm jealous....
Im not a techy dude but I will be riding the TAT next year. Very straight, clear and concise information especially for me to understand what you are using. OUTSTANDING communication. Thanks!!
Cool, glad this was helpful and thanks for the feedback!
Best review ever watched about In reach . Thank you for this ,very helpful.
Awesome, thank you, glad it was helpful
Great review! This helps me "narrow in" on a product I need for my specific uses. Thank you.
You're welcome, glad it was helpful!
Just bought one, and tested it out! thanks so much for this video :)
Perfect review!! This was so helpful, thank you so much!
Great review. You cleared up a lot of issues that I could not find in other reviews about the Garmin. Practical and honest information. Thank you.
Thank you 👍
Thank you SO much for this video. It was very helpful helping me decide between this and the Spot X. Happy Trails :)
Sweet, glad it came in handy!
Which one did you get ?
Thank you for this video. I have had a SPOT III for years has WAS going to get the Garmin Explorer+ B/C I thought it ws a full featured GPS like my old Garmin COLORADO. Now I know I'll wait until Garmin makes a full featured GPS WITH satellite texting and SOS.
great review as always. i love your blogs.
Good in depth review mate, thx. very informative.
Thanks! Been looking at this unit or the mini. You have just made my mind up on the mini!
Cool cool - you should check out the 66i too if you're looking for nav features > hikingguy.com/hiking-gear/in-depth-garmin-gpsmap-66i-review-how-to-guide/
Very good description. Thank you.
Great review - much appreciated. Always good to have another persons perspective on this great unit. ( I recently purchased the Explorer+)
Cool & thanks, yea, it's a solid device, enjoy it.
Just picked up the SE model and will use it next week in the Sierras. My plan is like yours... text and SOS only; no NAV. Thanks for the excellent video!
Cool, glad it was helpful and have fun in the Sierras. Just got back. Snow is melting but lots of mosquitos and more thunderstorms than usual.
Thanks for the video. I just started hiking. I did my 1st camping at night in the GSMNP and planning on a 3-4 day. Going to continue to do my research but I agree, it’s a good tool to have. Liked and subscribed
Sweet, glad it was helpful and welcome to the hiking world. You'll have a blast. Don't get hung up on the gear too much, just be safe, have backups, and focus on enjoying the outdoors.
Thank you very much. I ordered one to use on my all terrain mobility scooter that I use not only to get around, but to get as far into the woods as I can, on adequate dirt roads and trails, for wildlife photography. I’m using the incredible, German made Me:Go mobility scooter. Its the TOL of scooters, and I want to maintain contact with my family while out on it for safety. I’m also ordering the ACR Resq unit as soon as I figure out which one to get. If I go down on my scooter, get injured, being presently handicapped, I want to have security in knowing I can get rescued. I’m no longer the tough, strong, fit, young man I once was! Thank you for taking the time to make this video. Very good indeed. Also, I know now that I’ll need another Garmin for maps and navigation. I’m researching that now. Didn’t know that. I thought the inreach was going to be enough. All the best to you and many happy and safe trails and grand adventures!
Wow, thanks for that, all new info for me and very helpful. I always travel with two beacons too so think that's a good strategy. They're so small it's really not such a big deal. Happy trails and grand adventures to you as well!
I use this unit in North Western Quebec. As a nature photographer I spend my a lot of my time well out of cell range. This unit is a necessity. Recommend this unit highly! Thanks for the excellent review.
Hell in Canada they give you a sat phone for certain stretches of road and you turn them in when you complete the hwy. I use a sat phone because you can text or talk. You can rent a sat phone for 10 bucks a month and you only pay for what you use and cancel anytime.. Only used mine once when I need a tow but I'm so glad it was talk instead of just text because it made it so much easier. You can also go online and look up a towing company police ect ect. I'll stick with my sat phone.
T salinger1026 $10/month? Please tell me where I can rent one for that price. I’d be all over it. Thanks
T salinger1026 this is exactly what I do
@@SchmidtintheWorkshop I take it you never got a response to your question. I also wonder where I can rent it for $10/month!
That’s cause they were spouting nonsense. I ended up buying a used Inreach and pay $15 a month basic package then suspend my substitute until I need it again.
Purchased this device for much of the same reasons. Still getting to know the ins-and-outs, but it was pretty easy to set up. Like you, I find the text messaging very useful. I do find that it seems very slow to send and receive messages. I suppose we're spoiled with our instant messaging cell phones. I've also had issues where it would require me to calibrate the compass multiple times. Pairing with my iphone worked well and I like using the familiar interface of my phone. Not to mention you can dictate your message v.s. typing which is helpful. Thanks for the review.
Nice, glad it's working for you too. Yea, I used the phone paired for a while. It definitely helps when sending a lot of text messages. Didn't run into the compass calibration issue here, but maybe I got lucky. Wonder if it has to do with the local magnetic declination or local magnetic disturbances"
Thank You, I have the + model and this was very helpful
Great Job! I will subscribe! Out of the box there was nothing with my purchase of the inReach Explorer+ Our Leader on a long hike did run our of battery charge, so I will be keeping my Garmin Map 64st for maps, etc.
Awesome video. Very informative. You just helped me hit the “buy” button, and I will pick mine up today.
Looking forward to subscribing to your videos and seeing your future work! Thanks again!
Cool cool, thanks so much, glad it was helpful. It's a really powerful piece of gear. Not a one tool solves all, but for what it does, it's solid. Enjoy it!
Thank you for.a great review. Just perfect. Mine should be arriving in a few days. 👊
Awesome, glad it was handy, have fun with it... use mine every hike....
Excellent review. I own & carry the ACR ResQLink in addition to my Garmin GPS 62stc
Thanks for the in-depth review. It really helped me decide to get this unit. Sincerely, your latest sub.
cool cool, glad it was helpful!
Excellent review -- thank you!
Thanks for the video, very informative. l also have a PLB, same brand, different model. Mine has a 'test' button (probably yours too) to test whether the device is operational and is sending/receiving a signal properly. BTW, very good pointing out how the PLB operates in 'rescue specific' satellites, so to call them. ATB!
Thumbs up bro! I use the same unit as well. Love it.
Great review ! Thanks !
Thank you very much. Your video is 'to the point' and very helpful. Cannot thank you enough.
Awesome, glad it was helpful and gave you what you needed.
Thanks, great review. I'm looking at your shirt... then realize I'm wearing that exact shirt as I sit here watching the vid. lol
Ha, nice, yes, great minds dress alike....
Great review, man, thanks! I learned everything I wanted to know!
Music to my ears, thank you!
It was great keeping in touch with my family while sailing from the Keys across the Gulf of Mexico to New Orleans.
Nice, sounds like an adventure. I recently used mine to do the same when sailing with a buddy around Vancouver Island. Works like a charm.
@@Hikingguy The communication was great, particularly since I was on the boat for 12 straight days. The one negative I experienced with the InReach Exploter+ was the marine forecast. Either I did not use it correctly or it was not accurate in the middle of the Gulf. We ran into a cold front 240 miles off the coast of Tampa and had not anticipated the significance of what we encountered.
@@jimmccann6876 Good to know, I haven't used the marine forecasts much so can't vouch for their quality. The new Garmin 66i has a visual weather map and just testing it out now. Theoretically should be easier to see the fronts on a doppler-type map. Will include that info in the video review coming shortly.
excellent review. Thank U!
Well made video mate. Thank you!
Awesome, glad it was helpful!
Awesome overview! Just got myself one, first outing this weekend!
Sweet, congrats! Just a heads up, it takes a little bit of time to get up to speed on, so plan accordingly. Have fun...
worked lovely! Messaging is slow, but reliable. And the tracking also worked a treat :) Really great piece of kit!
Cool, glad it's working out for ya. Yea, the messaging can be slow. It's all based on the sat fix, so sometimes it's quicker, other times slower. Works better than my old SPOT though, so happy.
Thanks for this ready to ditch my spot device since they up the subscription 8 bucks a months. I like the all in one device thanks for the review.
Thanks, glad it was helpful!
Buying one tomorrow. Thanks buddy.
👍👍👍
I have the Yellow InReach that I use when I fly my Cherokee 180 (the Kitfox IV has been sold and is now living in Iceland 😕 I miss it). I am part of a group of 7 aircraft and 14 pilots. We have done an around US flights in 2017 (JACKSONVILLE to San Diego) and 2018 (JACKSONVILLE to Kittyhawk to Chicago to Dubuque to Rapid City to Ogden Utah to Spanish Wells UT to Santa Fe to Tulsa to KHEG in Jacksonville). It posted tracking points to a my Garmin website. I also used it to send status texts to our followers. Worked great. Benefit vs SPOT is that it’s a 2 way comms.
Very cool, do you have a link where I can check out your trips?
HikingGuy.com Hi, here’s my inReach map link. Set the custom dates to see the trips. The first flight in June of 2017 was to San Diego and Back, and the second in late May through June of 2018 was a Heartland USA tour.
share.garmin.com/JohnMcGlynn?doMobile=1
Good review! Thanks
Thank you! This video was very helpful.
You're welcome 👍
Great Review, thank you
Thanks for this video!
Thank you for this.
You sold me going to buy the InReach SE
Saying it is not good for navigation summaries it all
Thank you alot
thank you great review
Good video! Thanks.
Nicely done. Many thanks.
Thanks, glad it helped.
Nice job. Thank you
One of the best review I've seen
Thank you!
Was here 85 people at Spot who downvoted this? These are the most comprehensive, unbiased reviews ive watched!
Ha, thanks again... yea Garmin doesn't pay me or sponsor me to do any of these. They don't even answer my emails when I send them questions! That's how removed from their payroll I am.... I do wish they would consult folks like me and other users for feedback and feature requests though.
Great, great review...thanks much! I have the original SPOT which still works...my buddies and I were going to activate it for a month for a February 2018 trip on Katahdin, but am now considering purchasing this device...thanks!
Awesome, glad it was helpful.
Excellent review , thank you 😊
👍
Very nice. Just ordered one.
One thing I’ve learned through researching these things it’s that the GEOS service is separate. I know you touch on that but I do believe even in the US you will be billed for a chopper ride so the 24.99 per year for the GEOS insurance is totally worth it. The garmin and other units that are on the market now (as you predicted haha) make it seem like sos connection to GEOS is all you need but unless you want to sell a kidney after you are rescued you need an annual GEOS membership.
Yea, it can be a little confusing.
- So GEOS / rescue distpatch is included with a subscription.
- Who pays for the rescue depends on where you are and the context of your rescue (for example, you may be charged for frivolous use)
- The optional GEOS insurance would cover the cost of a rescue if you are charged
Hope that helps
thx for the review mate
👍👍
Great review, it looks really similar to my Garmin GPSmaps 64s. I have used for about 4 years now. I think the Inreach would make a great companion to the 64s. Thanks for the review.
Thanks, glad it was helpful. Have you checked out my review of the GPSMAP 66i? That might be a better fit if you are coming from a 64 series. Check it out > hikingguy.com/hiking-gear/garmin-gpsmap-66i-review-guide/
Awesome very helpful.was looking into this.lost my spotgen.
Glad it helped, and as a former SPOT user, I like the InReach units much more. They are way more reliable.
For those interested here's a chance to save some bucks. REI will be selling the Garmin InReach Explorer Plus for $375 (reg. price $450) at this year's Anniversary Sale (May 18-28, 2018).
That's awesome, thanks for posting. REI link here: goo.gl/whqJY4
It’s not just REI’s website that has the discounted price. I noticed the price drop on Garmin’s website as well. Does this predict a new model coming out soon?
Yea, the Mini is allegedly coming out in a few weeks, but it doesn't have mapping: bit.ly/2IGdKzl . Will be interesting to see what the future holds here.
Mapping functionality is there for the Mini if you use your smart phone in conjunction.
Yup, thanks for the clarification. Just not in the unit itself. Getting one next week to start testing, will keep you guys posted on how it works.
Thank you!
For me it Is a honest review👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾 thank you!!!! My english not Good pero thank you
Thanks for watching! 👍🙏
Great vid very informative!
thank you, glad it was helpful!
Thank you😊
What is the best navigation device most simple for stands truck camp etc? Thx
Super review. Many thanks. So if you’re saying not to use this device for navigation, which unit (besides cell phones) would you recommend for navigation purposes?
All my nav gear is listed here: hikingguy.com/best-hiking-gear/
You are a pro. love the redundancy.
Ha thanks, yea for a few extra ounces it's worth it to me...
thanks for the great review. being in between a dedicated gps and this one for hiking (never used a dedicated gps before), can you explain what this lacks in terms of navigation? (my needs are limited to what you described in the video: occasional checking/waypoints, breadcrumbs/tracking etc.) again thank you very much hiking guy!
Thank you, glad it came in handy. If you just want to do waypoints and check your track/position occasionally, this unit will be fine. It just doesn't have the advanced features you'd find on a unit like the 66i, which for most folks is probably overkill. Check this out > hikingguy.com/hiking-gear/garmin-gpsmap-66i-review-guide/
10:14 - where the screen goes off like you mention that 'other' Garmin units will power the screen on at the next waypoint etc automatically, does the Garmin GPS 64ST do that would you know please? If not any idea which ones will?
great review. thanks
👍
What is the RF output? Is it as good as the Iridium Go? Great review, really enjoyed it.
Thank you and I think it's 1.4w for this, assuming it's the same as the old Delorme. I've also read that the newer inReach (Mini, etc.) are 1.6w. So safe to say 1.4-1.6w I think.
Cris, Nice job. Covered a bunch saved me from pestering the REI guys for too long. I'm gonna hit your extended review as well. Scripted like a pro, which I guess you are :-) So on your 2 is one mantra, are you using the Garmin etrex as your main GPS?
I'm SoCaler as well, but enjoy AZ hiking more where I work part time.Thanks happy hiking. Cheers, Rick
Ha, thanks, well maybe not a pro but hopefully useful. I actually use a few GPS units, and the eTrex 20x is my backup. I have all the toys I use up here: hikingguy.com/hiking-gear/my-best-hiking-gear-list/ - generally I:
* Do a lot of prep with paper and have a paper map in my pocket
* I load a GPX file onto my Fenix 5x and periodically check my pos versus the track
* I use Gaia GPS if I need to zoom around and really explore a map
* If it's raining or my phone battery is low or it strikes my fancy, I use the eTrex 20x for that
* If the shit hits the fan, I can use the InReach, or just use paper, where I started
I said it was well thought out and articulated review. It convinced me and answered most of the questions. I'll chk out the rest of your site. Thanks for the site and killer info. Cheers, Rick
Cool thanks Rick
Great review. I believe the price difference you mentioned at the time of this video was $50 - which drove the recommendation for Explorer. The SE is now $285 on amazon vs Explorer model at $399. If i intend to use the Garmin device as you do - have the tables turned in your opinion (SE a better option)?
Yea it's a good question. If you can afford it, I'd just get the Explorer with the maps since it's a good backup and doesn't add any weight. But if the amount is painful and you have other nav options, go with the SE.
Enjoyed your information. What do your recommend for navigation use? Thanks
Check out my review of the 66i - good pick if you want InReach. Or just go with a smartphone & InReach Mini. Check out my gear link in the description to see some setups that I recommend.
You mentioned that this unit wasn't the greatest for navigation. I agree. I had one in the past. I ended up going with the SPOT just to have the tracking and the SOS. I am however trying to find a good GPS system to hike with. Something I can track, have good maps, plan trips ect. Something that will work in the middle of nowhere. Satellite GPS I guess. What do you use for you main navigation?
Give this inexpensive unit a try: hikingguy.com/hiking-gear/garmin-etrex-20x-hiking-gps-review/
I use Gaia GPS on my phone, and then keep that eTrex in reserve (it's way more rugged than a phone).
I use a Garmin Oregon GPS for kayak tracking in all areas, even out of any cell phone reception. All you need is the pre-loaded topo maps & a satellite signal. No fees involved.
Excellent & comprehensive end user review, Thank you! My main question. I know these can save your life, but the overall product usability seems like its a WAP phone in 1998. Why has Garmin not added voice capabilities? Did they just cut $$ because its on your smartphone? I don't expect perfection as you rightly mention, but are voice capabilities unreasonable for a device this critical? in 2020?
Ah yea, that's Garmin. No voice and an interface that feels like 1998. I think given that they don't have any major competition, it's just how it is. And it's probably why more people are just using their smartphones with an app like Gaia GPS and pairing it with an InReach Mini.
can I connect it with my garmin chart plotter for offshore
Great information thank you. If i use the Map only just like normal etrex 35 how long does the battery last? Whats the Satellite fix interval? Im hoping to use it for navigation and recording tracks?
I'm not sure on the battery life if you just use the app or sat fix interval, might be a good question for Garmin support. I'm guessing it would be close to the 30 day continuous figure. If you just need a unit for mapping, there might be better options out there, it's not great as a pure mapping GPS.
I'm thinking about the Uinta Highline trail. I will need some navigation. What do you use for your primary navitgation? Is something like the ETrex32 a better option than carrying an Inreach? Thanks
Nice, the Highline is on my bucket list - I use a GPSMAP 66i with InReach and much better navigation than the Explorer > hikingguy.com/hiking-gear/garmin-gpsmap-66i-review-guide/
@HikingGuy.com Great reviews you make!
In 2021 do you still think this is worth buying? Im looking for a sos device but would also like a gps. I originally looked at a inreach mini and maybe pair it with one of the smaller cheaper garmin gps’. I am also very weight concious. Also thougt of using my phone as gps but dont know if the battery drainage will annoy me and just require another power bank...
I wouldn't get this in 2021 - I'd try the InReach Mini + a smartphone if you're concerned about the weight. It's easy enough to get a small USB charger.
Cris, thank you for your helpful videos. I am getting ready for a multi-day backpacking trip. I purchased a 66sr through your link. Considering where I am going, I am re-considering that I should have purchased a 66i, as opposed to now spending about $350 on the Inreach Mini.
If you only had one device, what do you think you would do? If you have a video or article that would better answer the question and save you time, could you please point me to it? Thank you so much!
If I make the switch to the 66i, I have to have my 66sr back to the seller by Feb 6.
If you want inReach and hyper-accurate GPS isn't a requirement, you'd probably be better off with a 66i. It's what I use on the trail and the positioning is definitely acceptable, especially for hiking and backpacking.
Im a landscape photographer, I understand you can use this tool to access maps on Ipad/phone. Would this allow one to access maps on app like TPE or Photopills? If anyone in the comments section knows this would be much appreciated.
Could you use this for the satellite features and a Fenix 6x for the navigation? Don’t wanna overload myself with tech while out but that seems like a good 1-2 punch
Yup, that's a combo that I used for a while (now I use a 6x + 66i)
Just bought it. It's in the box. Will read manual later, big 40 days winter expedition starting in 10 days. Question: when sending an email, what is the limit of characters ? same as SMS/TEXT to phone? or can it be more like 300 chars ?
believe it's same as SMS/text
Yup, found it's 160 characters.
Wow, this was an eye opener.
I was going to get this very unit for the safety of tracking, messaging, and SOS IN addition to navigation capabilities. You mentioned that it was not great for navigation. That shocks me.
Does this unit allow you to follow a GPX tracks that you’ve downloaded off the internet?
Does it allow you to create your own hiking tracks and routes in (free) Garmin Basecamp and send them to the unit?
Does it Marks waypoints to save important places?
Does it Navigates to a waypoint?
Does it Track your progress, speed, time and distance?
Does it allow you to save your hikes to your computer or online on Garmin Connect?
Does it have map browsing and navigation capabilities?
Great review, thanks....
Did you check out the blog post? Take a look, the post covers a lot of those questions:
hikingguy.com/hiking-gear/in-depth-garmin-inreach-explorer-review/
Yes, I did. thanks. Bottom line is that I am NOT getting this unit until Garmin has incorporated it into their eco system...
Yea, unless you really want the two way sat texts / SOS, then it's not worth it. Hopefully the next generation will be integrated into Garmin's ecosystem better.
I am now following you through Feedly. Your videos are well done and actionable. thanks....
Awesome awesome, thank you
Watched the video and read your article. Two questions...1. is there a device that has all these features and IS good for navigation?
2. I hike Forest areas that lack open sky areas. I read in the instructions open sky is required for this device to connect. Have you had any experience with this?
1 - Yup, the GPSMAP 66i > hikingguy.com/hiking-gear/garmin-gpsmap-66i-review-guide/ 2 - It works in tree cover but generally open sky is best.
Can be downloaded in eksploer Beck Road MAP ??
It's weird but in my inReach explorer+ I can't find "TRACKING" menu like in 08:47. Anybody knows how to turn in on?
Hi thanks for the amazing video. I note this is from 4 years ago. Im looking to buy the inreach explorer + which looks like the same product. Is this still a good satellite messenger system or has something better come up in 4 years? I live in new zealand. Thanks
If you just want messaging and navigation is not too important, it's a good buy. If you want a unit to navigate on trails, etc., you might be better served with a GPSMAP 66i.
It needs to build in a qwerty keyboard so it can scrap pairing with your phone. Phones are worthless below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. I know it's a standalone device, however, Texting on that thing is painful. Great review though.😎👍
Agreed 100% - I appreciate the preset and quick text functions, I almost never use the keyboard. Glad the review was helpful!
Hi. Thank you for a very helpful review. I have some friends who are 'preppers.' Would this be a possibly useful phone in a 'grid down' situation, i.e., where all normal phone service is unavailable. Could the prepper communicate by text with other sat phone owners?
Yup, you can communicated with other devices, each one has an email that works for inReach to InReach comms. Theoretically satellites would work if earth cell towers went down but I'm not sure of how much of the satellitel tech is dependant on terrestrial infrastructure.