Keep inreach explorer that rei sent by mistake or exchange for mini?

The major difference besides weight, as I see it, is the bigger screen of the Explorer+, and the navigation buttons (for navigating screens within the device, not navigating terrain, etc.) make the Explorer+ a lot easier to use, IMO. The screen on the Mini is really tiny – 1″x1″, whereas the screen on the Explorer+ is 1.5″x2″. The buttons to navigate the Explorer+, combined with that larger screen, make it easier to get around to the various menus on the Explorer+, perhaps even lots easier to find what you’re looking for until you remember the layout of the Mini. Another, generally less major, difference is the battery life. The Explorer+ is going to last longer on a charge than the Mini.

IMO, the only thing the Mini has going for it is its weight, about half as heavy as the Explorer+. So it comes down to convenience vs. weight.

I haven’t used a Mini yet, so the above positives for the Explorer+ might be mitigated on the Mini if paired to your phone and using the Earthmate app.

I had previously rented an Explorer+ for a trip to see if I thought the technology was worth it for me.  The peace of mind, for me and my family, proved to be quite worth it.  I then ordered a mini and picked it up at REI about 2 wks ago. I also use my phone for primary navigation. I have yet to take the mini overnight, but based on day trips and playing around, I am very excited about the weight savings and especially the size.

Obviously I have far less experience than others on this forum, but I would say exchange it.

Battery and backup gps <> 3.5oz.