Garmin inReach Mini GPS Satellite Communicator

Updated
Views
435
Rating
11 customer reviews
WearableTech.io Logo
Garmin inReach Mini

$299.99

in stock

Garmin InReach Mini, a Lightweight and Compact Satellite Communicator

The Garmin inReach Mini is your go-to connection for maintaining off-the-grid contact, this lightweight and compact satellite communicator with GPS is ideal for adventures where size and weight matter. Fit global connectivity in your palm with Garmin’s smallest, lightest satellite communicator made to date. Weighing a mere 4.23 oz, inReach Mini provides global messaging and interactive SOS plus basic GPS and compass page navigation. It can pair with a smartphone, tablet or compatible Garmin outdoor device.

  • Small, rugged, lightweight satellite communicator enables two way text messaging using the 100 percentage global Iridium network (satellite subscription required)
  • Trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center (satellite subscription required)
  • Access downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more by using the free Garmin Earthmate app and compatible devices
  • Optional inReach weather forecast service provides detailed updates directly to your inReach Mini or paired device (basic and premium weather packages available)
  • Send and receive inReach messages through compatible Garmin devices, including connected wearables and handhelds.
  • Display resolution: 128 x 128 pixels

At walmart.com you can purchase a Garmin inReach Mini - Orange Satellite Communicator With GPS for only $289.00., which is 28% less than the cost in eBay ($399.00). The cheapest price was found on March 6, 2024 11:11 am. – View Buying Options

// LATEST DEALS

AVAILABLE ON EBAY

1
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator with Two-Way Messaging & SOS
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator with Two-Way Messaging...
2
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Compact Satellite Communicator Black
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Compact Satellite Communicator Black
3
2023 Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite GPS Communicator Black Flame Red BRAND NEW
2023 Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite GPS Communicator Black Flame...
2023 NEWEST MODEL GARMIN INREACH MINI 2 SATELLITE GPS COMMUNICATOR (BRAND NEW) PRODUCT DETAILS You’re an explorer who travels light and wants longer battery life. You need a compact GPS satellite communicator that can keep you in touch...

// MORE INFO

The Garmin inReach Mini GPS Satellite Communicator is the ideal device for anyone who loves outdoor adventures. It boasts a compact and lightweight design, allowing you to easily carry it in your pocket or backpack. With this GPS communicator, you can stay connected with your friends and family from virtually anywhere around the globe. It provides two-way messaging, so you can send and receive messages, track your location, and share your journey with others. The device also features a built-in SOS button, which comes in handy in emergency situations. Additionally, the Garmin inReach Mini GPS Satellite Communicator provides access to weather forecasts and maps, helping you to plan your route and avoid potential risks. Whether you're hiking, camping, or traveling to remote locations, the Garmin inReach Mini GPS Satellite Communicator is your ultimate travel companion.

// MEDIA GALLERY

// PRODUCT SUMMARY

The Garmin inReach Mini GPS Satellite Communicator is a compact and handheld device that provides reliable messaging and location tracking even in the most remote areas. Its small size and lightweight make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts such as hikers, climbers, and campers who need to stay connected with their loved ones and emergency responders. The device relies on Iridium satellite network which allows it to send and receive messages and location data from anywhere in the world. It comes with a built-in SOS button that triggers an alert to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center. The user can also download topographic maps, navigate waypoints, and share their location with others using the free Garmin Connect app. The device has a battery life of up to 90 hours in tracking mode and up to 35 hours in 10-minute tracking mode. In addition, the device is waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof, making it durable and reliable in harsh environments. With its advanced navigation features, two-way messaging capability, and emergency services, the Garmin inReach Mini GPS Satellite Communicator is the perfect tool for remote exploration and outdoor adventures.

// PRODUCT SPECS

BrandGarmin
ModelGA-0100187901
ConditionNew
Recommended UseHiking
Manufacturer Part NumberGA-0100187901
Assembled Product Weight0.22 lbs
Assembled Product Dimensions (L x W x H)2.00 x 1.30 x 3.90 Inches
Garmin inReach Mini GPS Satellite Communicator
released on July 4, 2018
What is the tracking points on the monthly plan? Can they be turned off? Also what is the location pings?

There can be same confusion to the terms used to describe features on the InReach. I will try to define each and show its relevance... LOG INTERVAL: This is an internal feature of the InReach that records where you are at repeating intervals of time. You can set the interval. This log is your record of the journey. On the Explorer+ with its internal map these log points will be used to connect a line showing your locations over time as you travel. There is no cost for Log points. TRACKING POINTS: These are a unique and separate set of location recordings that are SENT via satellite and displayed on your MapShare site to let friends and family watch your progress. Since they are transmitted from your InReach in the backcountry via the Iridium satellites they cost you. The subscription plans have options that offer no included tracking points on the lowest cost plan (so you pay 10 cents for each one sent) to unlimited tracking points included with higher priced plans. LOCATION PINGS: A family member ot friend to whom you have given the password for your MapPage site will see a map. If you do not have tracking turned on they can locate your current position by clicking on a LOCATE button. This sends a signal via satellite to your InReach which respons with your location info. It is then displayed on the MapShare map. These location requests cost each time. They are included or not depending on the plan level you are using. WEYPOINTS: These are specific locations that you use to plan a hike. They are not related to your current location but where you would like to be in the future. They are created by you at home on your computer at your unique setup and planning site. So before your trip you create and save a series of weypoints or places that you wish to visit as you travel. Many people will set weypoints for important locations along there expected hike, Such as cross-trail locations, vista overlooks, and resupply locations or overnight huts. Once created they are saved on the Garmin server in your account. When you sync your InReach they are passed and stored within your InReach so they are available off-grid. Weypoints can also be added from the backcountry while hiking. They are available for your navigation on the InReach Explorer+ or on the EarthMate app on your phone connected to any InReach. Newly created weypoints from the trail will automatically be sent FREE to your Garmin account and show on your MapShare site. There is no cost to create and use weypoints. ROUTES: Like weypoints, you may create routes at home from your setup and planning site. On a computer you use a map to define the exact route you wish to follow by clicking on various locations along your intended hike. The system will connect these locations with a line which it calls a route. These routes may be named and saved in your account. Routes may include predefined weypoints but it is not necessary. Routes are synced to your InReach device. They are free. MESSAGES: These are ether text (SMS) or email messages created by you on your trip and sent to anyone. These messages are limited to 160 characters which includes the addresses. Unlike most other satellite message devices, the InReach will also let you receive both text and email messages from anyone. There is a cost for each message sent or received because it uses the Iridium satellites. InReach subscription plans allow a minimum of 10 to an unlimited number of messages each month depending on the plan you choose. So you can control costs, Garmin gives you the ability to limit those who can send you a message by a password to your MapShare site. Any message you send allows for a reply. SOS: This is a special button that you press in a true emergency. It sends your exact location to GEOS, a search and rescue control service. That alone will send help to you. If you are able, GEOS will converse via FREE messages to help your rescue. I hope these definitions help.

How much is the subscription fee to send & receive messages?

Depends on the service, the cheaper plan is $11.95 month for an anual contract or $14.95 / month for the "freedom plan" which you can suspend when you don't use it (for example during winter), although for the freedom plans you will need to pay $25.95 per year to keep the service active. For all intended purposes is like a cellphone plan pre paid or annual contract. More details: https://explore.garmin.com/en-US/inreach/

How long is the delay between texting back and forth with someone else?

Based on actual use in Alaska:

How do you send messages? Is there a keyboard?

The inReach Mini doesn't have a virtual keyboard like the inReach Explorer+ but it does have a vertical scrolling list of letters, numbers, and symbols. This is similar to the interface you see on a Garmin wearable like the Fenix and it lets you send a custom message to one of your contacts or reply to an incoming message. You can also select and send one of your Quick Text replies that you modified before leaving on your trip. Selecting the Quick Text "Got your message, will reply when I get to camp." will save you the time to type a message and still let people know you heard from them. There are also Preset messages that are created ahead of time with specific text and specific recipients. Send "I'm checking in, everything is okay!" to your list of friends and family that are following along. Last option, the inReach Mini pairs via Bluetooth with the Earthmate app on your smartphone to let you use the touchscreen keyboard on that device, just like you do with your other texting apps. This is a good option if the weather is nice enough to take your phone out.

Does the phone you are sending a message to need a special app to receive it? Also, has anyone tried this in the Adirondack Mountains?

All inReach devices have the ability to send a message to someone's email or SMS number. The recipient does not need a special app, just the ability to receive the message and reply. While I have not hiked in the Adirondack Mountains, I know that we have beta testers in that area and can report lots of successful trips in the White Mountains of NH and the mountains of Maine.


// NEWS ARTICLES

Garmin inReach®

inReach Mini provides global messaging and interactive SOS plus basic GPS and compass page navigation. It can pair with a smartphone, tablet or compatible Garmin outdoor device to access topographic maps, aerial imagery, U.S. NOAA charts and other advanced features

Garmin inReach® Mini | Hiking GPS | Satellite Communicator

inReach Mini is your go-to connection for maintaining off-the-grid contact. It’s our palm-sized satellite communicator for adventures where size and weight matter. inReach Mini lets you send and receive text messages, track and share your journey and, if necessary, trigger an SOS alert to contact the GEOS 24/7 emergency response team.

Introducing inReach® Mini from Garmin® | Garmin Blog

The inReach Mini is the latest solution from Garmin’s expanding outdoor segment, which focuses on developing technologies and innovations to enhance users’ outdoor experiences. Whether hiking, hunting, trail running, mountain biking, golfing, diving or using satellite communication, Garmin outdoor devices are becoming essential tools for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.

// RELATED PRODUCTS

// Garmin Company Profile

Garmin aims to provide superior products for essential areas of our lives. They strive to be the leader in every market that they enter. Garmin is most well known in wearable technology for their fitness and sports watches, of which they make a large variety. – View Profile

Garmin Products
Garmin News

// REVIEWS

11 Reviews for Garmin inReach Mini GPS Satellite Communicator

  1. hawk3571999

    PROS – Works great to send and receive text messages when you are in an area that does not have cell service. You can setup a share my location page on the garmin website (and password protect it), where people can see where you are, and also send you messages. CONS – To have someone text you, you first have to text them from your device/earthmate phone app. After you have texted them, they can reply back to you. So you initially have to reach out to the person you want to contact for them to text you back using a phone. It would be nice for someone to text you directly (without having to text them first), however since you are charged per text, I can see why they would do this. I’ve only used it once when I was in a remote location, but it seemed you did have to use the app (or the device) to manually check for messages, it supposed to check automatically every 20 minutes, but that does not seem to be the case. You need a paid subscription to a garmin plan, but I knew that going in. Overall, I think it works awesome, I needed a way for people to contact me in case of emergencies when I go offline. This device is way more affordable then a satellite phone.

  2. Jim C

    Great service, great value, great product.

  3. Aj

    I picked the mini up for some solo backpacking trips, I’m really impressed with the extra stuff that comes with the inreach. Considering that I saw this priced without any accessories for right around the same price. The carrying case will be perfect for my electronics and battery bank in town.

  4. Robert F. Goodearl II

    I received it in the mail quicker than I thought. It was pretty easy to setup and get activated.

  5. Scott

    The miscellaneous bric-a-brac that this vendor offers for this package isn’t really worth the extra upcharge versus buying just a Spot.The problem with this Spot with my Android phone and I’ve also heard this happens on other devices as well is that the spot tracker will not stay Bluetooth connected to any device. Over the course of a day you have to unpair and pair the device at a minimum a half a dozen times.I have been in clear view of the sky with not a single obstruction for Miles, IE being out in the ocean, and sending and receiving a message sometimes takes upwards of 45 minutes.This is interesting technology but it is certainly not close to being what I would call consistently reliable.

  6. k_massaro

    It’s light. It’s tiny. It’s easy to use. It works as advertised, allowing me to text from the nether regions. Peace of mind for my son and girlfriend as I frolic in the woods alone on hunting trips. Good value.

  7. Powellcrazy

    Great deviceWork as advertisedWish subscription was cheaper, but great piece of mind

  8. calif_dreamer06

    Hi. My first Garmin product and I am impressed. After looking at reviews and doing my research, I purchased one. Is it small? Yes. Light weight? Yes. Perfect? No. Does it do the job its designed for? Yes. I go hiking many times out of cell service and this product gives me that added security if I ever need an SOS Contact. If it comes to that and it lets me down, I will update this review. Otherwise, I love it. Thank you!

  9. ziphler

    I replaced the full-size version with this when my first one (which I’ve had for years) was stolen. I’m a real wanderer both by vehicle and in the wild so I have this to give my partner some peace of mind. I downgraded it 1 star because after a few months it already only charges up to 94% and the charge doesn’t last more than two or so days while tracking but the smaller size is great.Garmin’s website has always been a confusing and convoluted product of brain-damaged GoPro-wearing millennials who have hit their heads one too many times bicycling off cliffs but once you can find the map page (and believe me, there is NO simple way to find anything on this massive site) and get it to window down to real-time instead of its default overlaying 2 years of locations and routes, its great.

  10. Eric Richard

    Have not used in the field but did the set up, it seems as advertised

  11. Stephanie

    The kit is not for the mini. Only buy the mini separate.

Add a review

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

// MORE INFO

Gear Review: Garmin inReach Mini - The Trek

April 21, 2020 - The Trek

Garmin inReach Mini | Satellite Communicator Reviews - Backpacker

January 22, 2020 - Backpacker

Best Satellite Communicators 2021 | Satellite Messenger Reviews - Popular Mechanics

September 25, 2020 - Popular Mechanics

Where to Buy

Garmin inReach Mini - Orange Satellite Communicator With GPS
Garmin inReach Mini - Orange Satellite...
$289.00
in stock
Buy Now
Walmart.com Walmart.com
Garmin InReach Mini - ORANGE
Garmin InReach Mini - ORANGE
$299.99
$349.99
in stock
9 new from $289.99
4 used from $267.99
as of February 27, 2024 1:13 pm
Buy Now
Amazon.com Amazon.com
Free shipping
Garmin inReach Mini Satellite Communicator (Black)
Garmin inReach Mini Satellite...
$299.99
in stock
Buy Now
Newegg.com Newegg.com
Garmin inReach Mini Satellite Communicator (Orange)
Garmin inReach Mini Satellite...
$299.99
in stock
Buy Now
Newegg.com Newegg.com
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator with Two-Way Messaging & SOS
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite...
$304.00
in stock
Buy Now
eBay eBay
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Compact Satellite Communicator Black
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Compact Satellite...
$320.99
in stock
Buy Now
eBay eBay
Garmin inReach Mini Marine Bundle - EX DEMO 1115
Garmin inReach Mini Marine Bundle - EX...
$344.58
in stock
Buy Now
eBay eBay
Garmin InReach Mini - BLACK
Garmin InReach Mini - BLACK
$349.99
in stock
3 new from $319.98
1 used from $269.99
as of February 27, 2024 1:13 pm
Buy Now
Amazon.com Amazon.com
Free shipping
Garmin inReach Mini Black Travel Lighter Communicate Smarter 010-01879-00
Garmin inReach Mini Black Travel Lighter...
$349.99
in stock
Buy Now
Walmart.com Walmart.com
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Portable Satellite GPS Navigator, Never Used
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Portable Satellite...
$350.00
in stock
Buy Now
eBay eBay
2023 Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite GPS Communicator Black Flame Red BRAND NEW
2023 Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite GPS...
$399.00
in stock
Buy Now
eBay eBay
Garmin - InReach GPS with Built-In Bluetooth - Red/Black
Garmin - InReach GPS with Built-In...
in stock
Buy Now
Bestbuy.com Bestbuy.com