Garmin's inReach Messenger Plus Evaluation: A Critique of the Outdoor Communication Device
The Garmin inReach Messenger Plus, a significant upgrade from its predecessor, is making waves in the world of outdoor communication. This device caters to a specific audience who require voice notes or image transmission via satellite, offering enhanced features that make it an attractive choice for adventurers and explorers.
One of the key improvements is the ability to send **photo and 30-second voice clip messages**, providing a richer communication experience beyond simple text. This feature is particularly useful in emergencies, enabling users to convey injuries or environmental conditions, or to share moments with family and friends without cell or Wi-Fi access [1][2][3].
The Messenger Plus also boasts a **significantly extended battery life** compared to the original Messenger. In low power messaging mode, the Plus offers up to **600 hours (approx. 25 days)** with location and text sent every 10 minutes, and up to **70 hours in performance mode**. This is a substantial improvement in energy efficiency, making it suitable for multi-week trips without recharging, whereas the original Messenger offers about half the endurance under similar conditions [1][2][3].
Other notable features include a **reverse charging feature**, allowing it to give emergency power boosts to smartphones, and a compact, rugged design built for serious rescue and communication needs [1][2]. The device uses the Iridium satellite network for faster data transmission, ensuring speed and reliability [1][2].
### Battery Life Characteristics: | Mode | Battery Life | |-----------------------|----------------------------------| | Low Power Messaging | Up to 600 hours (approx. 25 days) sending messages or location every 10 minutes | | Performance Mode | Up to 70 hours (more frequent sending) | | 2-minute Tracking Mode | Up to 120 hours |
The Messenger Plus is more expensive than the original Messenger, but for those who value multimedia messaging, extended battery life, improved communication speed, and the convenience of powerbank capability, the upgrade is worth it. Photos sent from the Messenger Plus are compressed but look good enough for trail use [1][3].
However, it's essential to note that overages for additional images or voice messages cost $1 USD each [1][3]. Subscription rates for the Messenger Plus are higher compared to the standard plan [1][3].
The Messenger Plus is compatible with the Garmin Explore app for navigation features and the Messenger app for its primary communication functions [1]. This device is a new and powerful tool from Garmin, allowing users to send voice notes and images via satellite when paired with a phone [1].
In conclusion, the Garmin inReach Messenger Plus is a worthy investment for those seeking enhanced emergency communication capabilities, extended battery life, and multimedia messaging options. For users who only require simple text messaging and basic tracking, the original Messenger remains a functional and cost-effective choice.
- The Garmin inReach Messenger Plus, an upgrade from its predecessor, offers adventure seekers the ability to send photo and 30-second voice clip messages, enhancing communication beyond simple text.
- One of the significant improvements in the Messenger Plus is its extended battery life, with up to 600 hours in low power messaging mode and up to 70 hours in performance mode.
- This device also features a reverse charging capability, allowing it to provide emergency power boosts to smartphones, and a compact, rugged design suitable for serious rescue and communication needs.
- The Messenger Plus, which uses the Iridium satellite network for faster data transmission, is more expensive than the original Messenger but offers multimedia messaging, extended battery life, improved communication speed, and powerbank capability.
- For those who only require simple text messaging and basic tracking, the original Messenger remains a functional and cost-effective choice.
- The Messenger Plus is compatible with the Garmin Explore app for navigation features and the Messenger app for its primary communication functions, making it a powerful tool for outdoor-living enthusiasts, particularly for those who value technology and smartphone integration in their home-and-garden and lifestyle.
