Garmin Satellite Communicators

The inReach Messenger is generally cheaper, has a significantly longer battery life (up to 28 days vs. 14 days on 10-minute tracking), a better antenna/signal, and can act as a power bank (reverse charging) for your phone; the inReach Mini 2 is lighter, has a screen and interface for standalone basic navigation (waypoints, routes), and a more secure attachment system for backpacks.

inReach devices use the Iridium satellite network to send and receive custom or preset messages, location sharing, and interactive SOS alerts globally, even outside of cellular coverage; for faster and more convenient messaging, the device is often paired with the Garmin Messenger app on a smartphone, which automatically uses cellular/Wi-Fi when available and seamlessly switches to the satellite network when off-grid.

Pressing the SOS button triggers an alert that is sent immediately to the Garmin Response center (a 24/7-staffed professional emergency coordination center); the center tracks the device's location, communicates interactively with the user via two-way text messages, and coordinates the appropriate local emergency responders or search and rescue services for the user's specific situation.

Garmin offers four main consumer subscription plans (Enabled, Essential, Standard, and Premium), all of which include unlimited SOS dispatch through Garmin Response; the key differences are the number of included monthly text messages and weather forecasts, the interval and cost of tracking points, with the Premium plan offering unlimited messaging and the fastest tracking intervals.

The main advantage of the ZOLEO is that it assigns the user a dedicated phone number and email address, which makes it easier for contacts at home to initiate communication with the user, whereas inReach devices require a software workaround (Garmin Messenger app) or a unique inReach address for an outside party to start a conversation.