Garmin inReach Messenger Plus Review

Video Description

The Garmin inReach Messenger Plus is a groundbreaking device, but is it worth the price? *Lowest Prices I Found:* https://amzn.to/3YcyP9B https://rei.pxf.io/19dQmm *Gear I'm Using Now:* * inReach: https://hkgy.co/inreach * Hiking App: https://hkgy.co/app * Watch: https://hkgy.co/watch * Shoes: https://hkgy.co/shoes * Pack: https://hkgy.co/backpack * Rescue Insurance: https://hkgy.co/insurance *Full Hiking Gear List (What I Use Now - Tested & Not Sponsored):* https://hikingguy.com/gear *Links:* * https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OGf-rOzzngc * https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGpsBOuyY-g * Website: https://hikingguy.com * Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/hikingguy * Monthly Hiking News (free): https://www.patreon.com/c/hikingguy/ * Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/c/Hikingguy 00:00 New inReach Tech 01:45 New inReach Messages 05:45 Speed Test 06:56 Power Modes 07:36 Battery Life 09:09 Navigation 10:32 Trackback 11:02 GPS Performance 11:42 Reverse Charging 13:05 Recommendations In this video, I take a closer look at the Garmin inReach Messenger Plus and why it's such a significant upgrade compared to previous models. On the surface, it might seem like the same device, with its familiar SOS messaging, weather reports, and tracking features, but the real innovation is what's inside. Garmin has switched to Iridium Certus, a more advanced satellite system that offers faster data speeds and the ability to send more detailed messages. This means you can now send longer text messages, voice notes, and even images, which could be game-changers for communication in remote areas. I put the Messenger Plus through its paces in challenging conditions, testing it in coastal redwoods to see how well it performs in dense tree cover. While it’s slightly faster than the previous inReach models like the Mini 2, the real benefit is in its ability to send more complex messages and handle a larger volume of data. The voice messaging feature, although requiring a smartphone to use, adds a new level of communication that could be crucial in emergency situations. For those times when typing out a long message isn’t practical, being able to describe your situation verbally can make a huge difference. One of the most interesting changes is the device's ability to transmit at higher power levels, increasing its reliability in areas with poor satellite coverage. However, this comes at the cost of battery life, especially when using the high-performance mode. Despite these new features, if you’re primarily using your inReach for basic messaging and SOS functions, you might not need to upgrade just yet. Unless you specifically need to send photos or voice messages, the older models still offer solid performance. That said, if you're looking for the latest tech in satellite communication and value faster message delivery and more data options, the Messenger Plus could be worth the investment. --- *Disclaimer:* Some of these links are affiliate links where I’ll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. I only recommend gear I actually use and trust.