inReach Mini 2 vs messenger

[Jeff Burns]

The inReach Mini 2 seems to be the most recommended satellite communication device on BPL, but I am a bit surprised the Messenger is not more popular. The lower price and longer battery life of the Messenger are compelling. The navigation features of the Mini 2 are minimal compared to a full function GPS or phone. What am I missing?

The safety plan is probably adequate for my needs and paying annually looks like the best deal. One reviewer suggested getting the recreation level pan for the first month to allow for more training messages during the learning process. That seems like a good idea, but it is not clear how to change plans after the first month. Would it be better to start the safety plan in August so that the message limit will reset before the month of our trip?

My upcoming trip is mid-September. What is the chance these will be on sale before I need to make a purchase?

[Jerry Adams]

when I bought the inreach mini, there was no messenger.  If I had to buy now, messenger would be good.  In another year, I think android phones will have satellite text functionality so then that would be my choice.

The safety plan is so cheap it doesn’t matter when you start.  If you exceed the 10 “free” messages, they’re only $0.50 each so no big deal.  Preset messages from you are free and don’t count.  I normally send one free preset message per day that I’ve arrived at my campsite and everything’s okay.

[Justin H]

I prefer the Mini 2 to the messenger from a UI standpoint. Battery life isn’t a concern for 90% of my trips since I am not away from an outlet for more than 6 days usually.

There is a chance they will be ~$50 off during the September long weekends sales.

[David D]

I did a deep dive comparison here including what people were claiming for the real battery life.

These are really meant for different use cases.  If you need navigation outside your phone, the mini 2.  If you don’t, the Messenger: its lighter and smaller, has way better battery life and provides reverse charging in emergencies.  I tested the reverse charging and posted a thread on it here. It still provides a basic and inferior  breadcrumb nav but if you’re paying the extra $$ subscription for the nav service, get the mini 2

The messenger and Zoleo are really the competitors for non-nav use cases, I include the Zoleo in the comparison.  Zoleo is cheaper, larger & heavier but now provides on trail non emergency medical advice service.

I’ve used the Zoleo and Messenger numerous times in the field and prefer the Messenger for its size and battery back up capability though the Zoleo’s medical advice service does look nice.

[Jerry Adams]

that is really useful information, thanks

it’s hard to extract that from online information and summarize

[Dan]

Do they make the Messenger in orange?  :-)

[David D]

Hey Jerry, no problem.  Ya, the information out there was pretty conflicting and incomplete, took some Columbo action.  I’m looking forward to hearing some real user field experiences with the Defy

[talagnu]

I had the original inreach mini and recently bought the messenger. I prefer the simplicity and longer battery life of the messenger. since I only send presets and occasional texts and weather forecasts, all the extra navigation features of the mini was never used and cluttered up the interface. and I believe the messenger has better satellite tech. messages send and receive quicker than my mini ever did. I believe I saw a reference to this in a review but I cannot recall where. I also like that it can switch to wifi connection when I’m in town and not break continuity of messages

[Author]

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