I've had my Inreach Mini 1 for a couple years and really don't see enough improvement to spend $400 to go to the Mini 2. The biggest improvements are the battery life, the new phone app, and the tracking features. The battery life on my Mini 1 has always been abysmal, so I bring along a battery pack to recharge it on longer trips. I'm not sure I'd trust the battery in the Mini 2 anymore than I do the Mini 1. If they do something like a trade-in deal, I'd seriously consider it, but otherwise the 1 is good enough. Nice review.
That's good - too many people fall into the trap ov buying the new version 'just because - upgrade'. The planet has infinite resources and an expanding human race to support. We cannot keep doing trivial updates for sales boosts. Efficiency yes but even then, as you demonstrate, it isn't worth changing if hour old in-reach, phone, car etc. still works. The most eco thing you can do is keep using what you have, repair it if necessary, and only replace it (recycling the old one) when it can no longer be used at all.
Also to note both of these devices are top choice for SCUBA divers when using in conjunction with the Garmin dive proof case! It’s great to be able to keep this device on person while diving at depth and know if you need to hail help once you surface you have solid technology on board in the smallest form factor currently available! Cheers, SeattleRingHunter
Thanks for the comparison video. I've had the InReach 1 for about a year now and it does everything that I need, so I can't justify an upgrade at this point.
I'm a frequent hiker and SAR volunteer. I've been using my inReach MINI 1for a few years now mostly as an SOS device and for low-fi tracking. I will not upgrade to the inReach MINI 2. The new features seem interesting, but nothing revolutionary. Like you said, it's a nice iteration and it would probably be my choice if I was a first time buyer, but it doesn't feel like a required upgrade for me. I wouldn't do navigation on any inReach MINI device if you already have a phone with a great navigation app which many people already carry around. Thanks for the great overview.
Thank you for this comparison video. I just purchased the mini 2 for a trip and and I'm glad I went with the newly released version. I've never used the original but based on what you and others have mentioned, for new purchases (as opposed to upgrades from mini 1), the mini 2 was a better choice.
I'm keeping my inReach 1. It's an SOS device and I use it for tracking in the 4x4. I get the navigation features in the inReach 2 using other devices that provide much more information. I am almost always connected to car power so the increase in battery life is not useful for me (and it's not a lot more as you commented). The additional GPS systems may make it a little faster to acquire a position fix but mine does just fine. Great review, I am a new sub for your channel.
Great comparison, it doesn’t look like there is enough of a difference for me to up grade. The gps on theses aren’t good enough for when you are deep in the bush or the mountains trying to navigate in heavy fog/rain:snow etc. For this reason I carry a stand alone gps, so yeah I’m just going to keep my inreach 1 😎
Thanks for the review! This really helped me make the choice. I went with the In Reach Mini 1. Amazon here had it on sale for $350(cdn) and free shipping, but the Mini 2 was $520 + $70 shipping! Almost a $200 difference all said an done.
I've had the same issues with messages not coming through on my phone or watch. I would upgrade just to fix that problem, although I'll probably wait a bit for people to get more long term use to see if any bugs appear with the new model. Getting rid of that terrible earthmate app is also a win for sure.
Thanks for the comparison. I think I agree based on your arguments that it's not worth upgrading. A real upgrade would be one one of the bigger navigation units, but I prefer to use my phone for that, it's just so convenient to swipe and pinch to zoom and whatnot. I'm not a hardcore hiker going on a 7 day trip without recharging though, so I've never had any issue with battery life (this depends greatly on how often it tracks and uploads your position in my experience). I think definitely somebody new to this should get the newer version because of the UI on the phone and on the device itself. The mini 1 really feels outdated in this regard. I wish something could be done about the latency of this thing. Sometimes it won't send a message for 20 minutes :-(
Great review! I have the InReach mini 1 for several years. Use my phone for navigation (BC nav pro). . Mini is just an emergency SOS tool to me. The mini 1 works just fine, not going to spend $400 to upgrade.
Nice video - thanks for putting it together. I have an inreach mini 1 and will stay with it. Garmin has changed their plans and it appears that instead of 3 fully customizable preset messages, you get 3 messages that they have already set up. As this is the only feature of the inreach I ever use, and my 3 messages are customized to my use cases, this would significantly change the cost equation for me. Any new purchase (or at least new account) forces you to the new plan. Using it primarily for back country skiing or mountaineering, I get about 10 days of battery life (I turn it off at night or in camp). That's all I need. I use a GPS66st for navigation, so if my trip got too long I could turn the inreach off when it wasn't in use (sending 1 of my 3 messages). As keeping weight down is always an issue on my kind of trips (plus don't we go to the back country to get away from always being connected to the outside world?) I would never take a cell phone with me - so the different cell phone app isn't a benefit to me either. I do like the improved menu structure - the inreach 1 is a bit clumsy - but like anything, with practice you get use to it.
Original Inreach has Tracback Justin. The difference between the 2 and the 1 is that the 2 records them passively while the 1 does it only if you have uploading of tracking points enabled. Its a small thing but the battery spec is also 1250mAH for both. I didnt notice really any difference in charge time but both are quite acceptable at 3 hours from flat dead.
I have an InReach Mini1 and my only gripe is that sometimes it takes forever to connect to the satellites. I’m an East Coast/Appalachian hiker so always tree cover. It often takes 20+ minutes for it to establish a good connection. Once connected, messaging is very quick though. I’ve learned to just use it (1) for SOS as needed, or (2) when taking a long lunch break or in the evenings when I turn it on and let it find satellites while I set up camp.
Thank you for the comparison, I still have the big Delorme device and I love it to death. The upgraded maps on the phone would be the biggest upgrade from Earthmate
Great review. Just going to keep my 1 for now. My headlamp uses the same micro USB as the Mini so it wouldn’t save me a cable. I don’t pair it with my phone, do turn it off at night, and don’t send tracking so I get more battery life. The only thing that really annoys me about the 1 is when I input contacts directly into the Mini. Wish I could attach a name to the contact number in the Contacts List. Sent a suggestion to Garmin about this. Does the 2 fix this?
@@kellycarlen9605 With the IM2 and 1, I have contact names attached to the numbers in my contact list. With the IM2, I can add a name when adding a new contact number or email address. With the app, I can import contacts from my phone as well.
Definitely an upgrade there. The Explore app with the 2 sounds better than the Earthmate crapp, I mean app. And if you can put BOTH contact names AND phone numbers, email addresses, and/or inreach addresses directly into the 2 that’s an improvement.
One thing I never hear people talk about is the cheap carabiner they give you.It's just waiting to snap open and drop off in the bush, which is what happened to me! Luckilly it was on, so I was able to ping it and find it before it died. For over $500, they should include a twist lock carabiner.
I really like my Mini 1 and I actually like the Earthmate App and I don't see that the Mini 2 is all that much better, but I'm still considering the upgrade. Thank you for the helpful comparison.
@@thebrowns5337 not trying to be rude here because as a backcountry guy, im all about preserving the environment, but just living, just typing that comment is wasting resources. We cant live without using resources. So in theory the best thing to do is either wipe out humanity to save the earth ( wont happen, at least not for the reason of saving the earth anyway ) or replenishing as much or more than we use. The second option is the only REAL option. USE RESOURCES AT YOUR DISPOSAL, but replenish them
I’m going to doing a self supported R2R Grand Canyon run in November and I’d like to get the 1 to save some money but I’d hate to have the software be useless in a few years.
I’ve still got the original inreach and it still works good for me, now more than 10 years. Still holding a charge somehow…. I might get the new one just bc I’m buying into the ultralight hype.
I was close to getting a zoleo but I dropped my phone on a Backpacking trip. It didn't break but I realized it's best to get an independent device that you can communicate with. If you stop communicating than more than likely your family or friends will think something happened when in fact your phone died or broke.
In addition to the SOS button Zoleo has a check-in button on the unit itself so you can still send out periodic "I'm Okay" messages with your location but yea the Inreach type devices are fairly unique in not relying on a phone for 2-way communication. Zoleo does shine for really long trips or international trips with their seamless messaging as you go into and out of cell coverage so everyone can text your Zoleo number without worry of missing you. They also have a way higher message character count if you want to send lengthy updates. Other than that Garmin has the edge. Hopefully Garmin is working on the app capability to use SMS when your phone has coverage as well.
I have the mini 1 and haven't seen a reason to upgrade. I'm sure, like most folks using the mini's, they bluetooth it to their phone, and they will have ways to charge both devices, so an extra day of battery life is nill. A quick search on Amazon and you'll find usb charging cables with multiple ends for various devices. I switched from Android to Apple and have noticed how much quicker the mini connects to the iPhone. The apps, though, are interesting to me... is the Explorer app that much better than Earthmate? And, since I use the mini in my Jeep off-road, having either the Explorer or Earthmate app in Carplay would be fantastic. I'd dump Gaia if Garmin made this happen. Curious to all input. Thanks in advance and cheers! Pete
Does the Mini 2 send/receive messages faster than the Mini 1? The 1 can take a really long time. Does the access to more location satellites help with connecting to Iridium?
I used to use the large in-reach and recently got the in-reach mini 2 & have spend a ton of time messing with it. PLEASE put out a video on how to use the mini. Please please please I wanted it specifically for messaging and I found it to be a struggle to figure out
Great video. In search for a new locator and looking at the all. And seeing the mini 1 is about $70 cheaper than the mini 2 and was wondering which route to take.
Great review. Unfortunately I'll no longer be using any Garmin products. Their customer service is the worst I've ever encountered. They are all about 💰 💰 💰 and could care less about customers. Makes it easy for me to throw away my inreach mini and start the search for something else for my back country saftey.
@@JustinOutdoors someone hacked my bank account so my card was canceled and my monthly payment to Garmin didn't go through. When I called them they were like talking to the KGB during the Stalin regime. Lied to me. Threatened me. I was a three year customer $50 a month every month never a late payment. They acted like they were going to send someone out to break my legs. They were mad because I wanted to Change my plan to the "freedom" plan because I don't use it every day like I used to. That kind of customer service deserves only one kind of reaction. They have lost this customer and the over $600 a year in fees for life.
Hey Justin, been a big fan of the channel for a while. Question, The Mini is now available online for $249. If you had neither device would you get the Mini for that price or the Mini 2 at 400?
I use the device so much and ononger trips that I'd get the mini 2 for the longer battery and USBC charging. If the majority of trips I went on were under 5 days and I didn't use it as much, I'd get the regular mini 1 for $250
So am I correct in my assessment that you can use this device to send and receive texts both on the device and on your phone, but it isn't per se satellite wifi in the woods, right?! You can't still do internet right?
Looks like they've fixed some of the issues with the original mini. I've had mine a few years and it's safe to say I only use it for Comms, it's nav capabilities are woeful.
When looking at map on phone you keep it on the entire time? The way I do it is to open the app (OsmAnd), try to remember where I am and where I have to go. Then I close the app and when I'm not sure, I reopen the app (which activates GPS) and do the same process again to save battery. Not sure if this is how people navigate on their phone when doing lots of miles.
What an excellent *and helpful* comparison -- thank you! Since you have been following this, can you tell me if you sense that Garmin will be pushing out an *updated* InReach Mini version 3 anytime real soon? also, fwiw -- consider adding an amazon affiliate link -- more ppl will be able to buy from them (even tho they're problematic) than from REI.
I think, if the battery is the same size, but you're seeing a large discrepancy in how both perform, they could probably send a software update and solve that... I don't think, as a safety device, that that is out of the realms of possibility. I don't know if it's worth it to get the new one if you already own one and you only use it casually. I do agree the old interface is clunky, but it's still functional.
The battery performance difference is due to the mini 2 using a more efficient processor. Unfortunately, you wouldn't be able to patch that into the mini 1
I'm developing a similar product called Out of Reach, it is an actual potato 🥔 and will only connect to the carbs network. People will have to guess where you are and if you're alive. The potato will retail for $139.
Gonna buy my first one soon, so I have a question. I like the back track feature of the 2, but can’t you just set a way point of where you start with the 1 and do the same thing? Good video, thx!
Trackback will take you back along your original route, while setting a waypoint will just create a straight line. You could probably still approximate your way back with the waypoint as long as you're on a trail and it isn't tricky.
Is there any word from Garmin to do a software update/upgrade for the mini one? Nice piece of gear though but I’ll stick with my original mini . Thanks for the comparison
Unlikely for any of the major changes to trickle through to the mini 1 as there is a new processor in the 2 and that is what gives it the new capabilities.
Funny how many reviews on all these communicators have problems with messages never going through or going through days later and not knowing until you go home. Sounds greeeaaattttt..... 😂
Dang it, there are some things to really like about the 2! Had I had a crystal ball, I would not have bought a 1 last year, lol. Tough decision . . . :)
@@JustinOutdoors Thanks for your opinion I appreciate it. What do you think of the inreach explorer+ ?? I’m not to worried about 7.5 oz vs 4.5 oz. Just wanna have a backup if something was to happen to my phone.
Do you have any experience with the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator... It looks like a cheaper option if you are willing to always have your phone on you.
The device is cheaper but the plans cost more and lack unlimited check-ins without an additional surcharge. The minimum plan price with unlimited check-ins is around $26 compared to Garmin at $15. Garmin drops to $12/mo under their annual plan which Zoleo has no competing plan for. In the long run their higher plan pricing tends to wipe out most of the savings off the device. Zoleo stands out notably only if you want to text a lot since app to app boosts the character count per message from 160 to 950 and their mid tier plan is a rather large message allotment per month. For the lowest or highest tier plan Garmin is better in my opinion and is way cheaper if you compare costs over 9 or 12 months usage where you can save substantially with Garmin's annual pricing.
You mentioned they both have 950 mAh batteries but both Mini and the Mini 2 actually have White 1250 mAh batteries. There is a Blue replacement battery available that is 950 mAh. Was that just misstated in the video?
Nice side by side Justin! Just gave ya quick shout out at the end of my latest video, you might be rubbing off 🤣 I really thought you were leaning towards making the 2 worth it over the 1 but I agree with you, if you have the 1 already the 2 doesn't seem to be significantly better. How about the price points? Has the 1 come down at all? Is the 2 more than the cost previously of the 1? Also, quick heads up, I wasn't able to see your end video link, not sure if it's a glitch or what.
I've been thinking about getting one of these as I never have a single were I go camping I'm not the best when it comes to technology so are they easy to use thanks for the video atvb Jimmy 😎😎👍👍
Question - do you have incident coverage with the IERCC for the SOS feature ? Considering dropping the $30 for a year of coverage. Do you happen to know if there are stipulations for being responsible for search & rescue fees? Is it only negligence or perhaps regional rules around this ?
There is no included coverage but its generally not needed anyway. It will vary by country but for North America and most of Europe Search and Rescue is federally funded so there is no cost to the user. There are a few examples of agencies passing costs on to the party that called out the rescue but its generally only situations of extreme negligence where the emergency was totally avoidable with some basic planning. In short the "Insurance" they offer is pretty much not going to ever actually be used so its just wasted money and pure profit for Garmin.
Most SAR’s are NOT Federally funded in the US. They’re usually local (so State or county) funded. Some are private. Really good example of private are most air ambulance services. Maybe you can get the National Guard to pick you up, but the vast majority of Life Flights are private companies or for-profit hospitals. I have the IERCC coverage in addition to my employer heath insurance. If I ever need an evac in a chopper I want the most coverage I can get. Hope I never use it, but two bucks and change a month is cheap compared to the per hour cost of a helicopter.
@@kellycarlen9605 Most people will find themselves in the national parks systems and the big ones are absolutely federally funded and have their own crews on standby. Specify State too if you like, same thing. Tax dollars at work. The larger National forests usually have cooperation from the NG. In NA we simply dont have the sprawling Crowns Land like Canada does so its hard to get lost anywhere that is inaccessible. Its also a bit fantastical to talk about pressing that button as if it summons a magical helicopter. The reality is most search and rescue operations conducted in the US are walk in, evaluated, and walked out. Private companies like Life Flight are generally for urban coverage. Not only are there just a few helicopters per State but they also have an operational coverage of just 150-200 miles of their base.
Nate, let me poke a hole in your response. I live by Yellowstone NP. Closest Level II trauma center is in Idaho Falls. If you have to be air evac’d from Yellowstone to Idaho Falls that’s via private Lifeflight. You or your insurance is picking up the cost...not the Park Service or the Feds. If you need Level I trauma care that’s Salt Lake City. People get air evac’d from Yellowstone to SLC on occasion, normally from either West Yellowstone, Montana or sometimes out of the airport in Grand Teton, Wyoming. You may luck out and get rescued and flown out for free, but that’s not how it always works. So even if you get rescued in a NP, you can still be on the hook for the cost of a helicopter ride. Having some kind of SAR/air evac insurance is smart. It’s really inexpensive and can save you from tens of thousands of dollars in unexpected costs. Around here Lifeflight is a big asset for rural coverage, in fact that’s one of its biggest uses, so it’s incorrect to say Lifeflight is pretty much for urban coverage only. At least around here.
Trackback on all the time is a good idea. When you realise you need trackback it’s too late to switch it on 😋 Looks like #2 is the way to go…but when is #3 coming out 😳
I don't really see the point personally of this feature. If you need to get back in a hurry, the way you came might not be the fastest. It would make more sense to check your map and find a route from there, maybe even to the closest village. For example recently I went to hike through the woods to a communications tower on top of a hill. The fastest and safest way back was through the paved service road. Now of course if you're completely lost and you don't have a map, then it could be useful but I wouldn't rely on my inReach Mini for navigation.
@@mathieuclement8011there have been times i have been in the dark of night or in very thick fog and tracking device has saved my bacon on my Garmin Rhino. So for me the tracking on the mini 2 makes sense.
@@JustinOutdoors please tell me why Justin I dont want to waste my money on zoleo if you are onto something better. Hey wait it is Friday what's up!!??
Use your watch and phone for navigation 🤔 don't you mean, use your paper map and compass for navigation and use your phone and watch as back up if needed 😉
Every SAR person I have talked to said they prefer people have SOS devices with 2-way communication. The subscription plans are costly though and I think a PLB is better than nothing. But if you can afford it, I think going with SAR recommends is ideal.
@@JustinOutdoors PLB transmit at higher wattage (5w), use a lower frequency so are better at transmission longer distances and in valleys or forests and the COSPAS-SARSAT satellites are monitored by government and military not some minimum wage drone at a Garmin call center. So, there’s that plus lower hardware cost, no monthly fees, waterproof and buoyant.
PLBs are far inferior when it comes to location accuracy (Mini2 has GPS, Galileo, QZSS, and Beidou which cheap PLBs cant come close to competing with) and most Search and Rescue personnel are not equipped or trained in locating PLB homing signals because they're mostly worthless unless they're in wide open spaces. As a result, in forests and especially surrounded by mountains, PLBs are accurate roughly to within a 1km radius at best. Second to this is that being able to relay the nature of your emergency is also incredibly valuable and shouldn't be understated. Without it Search and Rescue has no idea if someone sprained an ankle (needs assistance) or fell off a cliff (needs immediate evacuation) and with a PLB they wouldn't know until HOURS had passed when they finally deploy and locate you.
Check out my INREACH vs ZOLEO video! ua-cam.com/video/F2MPM9kPN6s/v-deo.html
I've had my Inreach Mini 1 for a couple years and really don't see enough improvement to spend $400 to go to the Mini 2. The biggest improvements are the battery life, the new phone app, and the tracking features. The battery life on my Mini 1 has always been abysmal, so I bring along a battery pack to recharge it on longer trips. I'm not sure I'd trust the battery in the Mini 2 anymore than I do the Mini 1. If they do something like a trade-in deal, I'd seriously consider it, but otherwise the 1 is good enough. Nice review.
That's good - too many people fall into the trap ov buying the new version 'just because - upgrade'. The planet has infinite resources and an expanding human race to support. We cannot keep doing trivial updates for sales boosts. Efficiency yes but even then, as you demonstrate, it isn't worth changing if hour old in-reach, phone, car etc. still works. The most eco thing you can do is keep using what you have, repair it if necessary, and only replace it (recycling the old one) when it can no longer be used at all.
Yup, my mini last for 18 hours on standby. Then flat. Think there will be a mid Atlantic rescue in less than 18 hours? Rubbish device.
USB-C that alone is worth the update!
Also to note both of these devices are top choice for SCUBA divers when using in conjunction with the Garmin dive proof case!
It’s great to be able to keep this device on person while diving at depth and know if you need to hail help once you surface you have solid technology on board in the smallest form factor currently available! Cheers, SeattleRingHunter
wow good point. Does the case really work well for this? I've nearly been lost at sea twice now so this is really good to know.
@@kdum8yes I have over 100 dives on the SCUBA case to depth and no issues still dry as bone!
excellent! Thanks for your help, I will pick myself up the case. @@SeattleRingHunter
Thanks for the comparison video. I've had the InReach 1 for about a year now and it does everything that I need, so I can't justify an upgrade at this point.
I'm a frequent hiker and SAR volunteer. I've been using my inReach MINI 1for a few years now mostly as an SOS device and for low-fi tracking. I will not upgrade to the inReach MINI 2. The new features seem interesting, but nothing revolutionary. Like you said, it's a nice iteration and it would probably be my choice if I was a first time buyer, but it doesn't feel like a required upgrade for me. I wouldn't do navigation on any inReach MINI device if you already have a phone with a great navigation app which many people already carry around. Thanks for the great overview.
Thank you for this comparison video. I just purchased the mini 2 for a trip and and I'm glad I went with the newly released version. I've never used the original but based on what you and others have mentioned, for new purchases (as opposed to upgrades from mini 1), the mini 2 was a better choice.
I'm keeping my inReach 1. It's an SOS device and I use it for tracking in the 4x4. I get the navigation features in the inReach 2 using other devices that provide much more information. I am almost always connected to car power so the increase in battery life is not useful for me (and it's not a lot more as you commented). The additional GPS systems may make it a little faster to acquire a position fix but mine does just fine. Great review, I am a new sub for your channel.
Oh man. Your videos are always so quality. Thank you thank you for this! I’ve been wondering what the differences are!
Great comparison, it doesn’t look like there is enough of a difference for me to up grade. The gps on theses aren’t good enough for when you are deep in the bush or the mountains trying to navigate in heavy fog/rain:snow etc. For this reason I carry a stand alone gps, so yeah I’m just going to keep my inreach 1 😎
What gps?
I’m right there with you, I bought the Inreach mini one mainly for communication I mainly navigate with a 64 ST.
Thanks for the review! This really helped me make the choice. I went with the In Reach Mini 1. Amazon here had it on sale for $350(cdn) and free shipping, but the Mini 2 was $520 + $70 shipping! Almost a $200 difference all said an done.
Thank you for a quality review without an annoying intro and background "music"
I've had the same issues with messages not coming through on my phone or watch. I would upgrade just to fix that problem, although I'll probably wait a bit for people to get more long term use to see if any bugs appear with the new model. Getting rid of that terrible earthmate app is also a win for sure.
how do you get messages on your Watch?
Nice, concise analysis of the new model upgrades over the original.
Thank you.
Great video! Just ordered the InReach Mini 2. Looking forward to checking it out in more detail👌🏼
I was so close to buying the 1 when the 2 came out, glad I waited. My REI rewards more than negated the price difference.
Ohhh... I was wondering what to spend my dividend on. This is perfect!
Thanks for the comparison. I think I agree based on your arguments that it's not worth upgrading.
A real upgrade would be one one of the bigger navigation units, but I prefer to use my phone for that, it's just so convenient to swipe and pinch to zoom and whatnot. I'm not a hardcore hiker going on a 7 day trip without recharging though, so I've never had any issue with battery life (this depends greatly on how often it tracks and uploads your position in my experience).
I think definitely somebody new to this should get the newer version because of the UI on the phone and on the device itself. The mini 1 really feels outdated in this regard.
I wish something could be done about the latency of this thing. Sometimes it won't send a message for 20 minutes :-(
Love the input and details on the product, we sell this as well as other Garmin items so it’s nice I can inform customers more in depth! Appreciate !
Great video, Justin - great comparison between the two devices and very thorough. I'll be looking forward to your next one!
I would think that Garmin would push the Go Back option in the firmware for the inreach 1, since it is a safety feature in my opinion.
I think it has to do with the battery abilities of the IM1
Great review! I have the InReach mini 1 for several years. Use my phone for navigation (BC nav pro).
. Mini is just an emergency SOS tool to me. The mini 1 works just fine, not going to spend $400 to upgrade.
Thanks Justin. Appreciated the thorough review. Hope they figure out some tweaks to improve your bluetooth experience.
Thanks for the review. Some nice new features not sure if i would upgrade…. But USB-C alone may force me to! 😆
Nice video - thanks for putting it together. I have an inreach mini 1 and will stay with it. Garmin has changed their plans and it appears that instead of 3 fully customizable preset messages, you get 3 messages that they have already set up. As this is the only feature of the inreach I ever use, and my 3 messages are customized to my use cases, this would significantly change the cost equation for me. Any new purchase (or at least new account) forces you to the new plan. Using it primarily for back country skiing or mountaineering, I get about 10 days of battery life (I turn it off at night or in camp). That's all I need. I use a GPS66st for navigation, so if my trip got too long I could turn the inreach off when it wasn't in use (sending 1 of my 3 messages).
As keeping weight down is always an issue on my kind of trips (plus don't we go to the back country to get away from always being connected to the outside world?) I would never take a cell phone with me - so the different cell phone app isn't a benefit to me either. I do like the improved menu structure - the inreach 1 is a bit clumsy - but like anything, with practice you get use to it.
Original Inreach has Tracback Justin. The difference between the 2 and the 1 is that the 2 records them passively while the 1 does it only if you have uploading of tracking points enabled. Its a small thing but the battery spec is also 1250mAH for both. I didnt notice really any difference in charge time but both are quite acceptable at 3 hours from flat dead.
950 mAh Canadian...you know how exchange rates are 😂
😂
Thank you so much this video was really helpful as I’m planning on getting an InReach Mini for my planned backpacking adventures this summer.
I have an InReach Mini1 and my only gripe is that sometimes it takes forever to connect to the satellites. I’m an East Coast/Appalachian hiker so always tree cover. It often takes 20+ minutes for it to establish a good connection. Once connected, messaging is very quick though. I’ve learned to just use it (1) for SOS as needed, or (2) when taking a long lunch break or in the evenings when I turn it on and let it find satellites while I set up camp.
Thank you for the comparison, I still have the big Delorme device and I love it to death. The upgraded maps on the phone would be the biggest upgrade from Earthmate
Great review. Just going to keep my 1 for now. My headlamp uses the same micro USB as the Mini so it wouldn’t save me a cable. I don’t pair it with my phone, do turn it off at night, and don’t send tracking so I get more battery life. The only thing that really annoys me about the 1 is when I input contacts directly into the Mini. Wish I could attach a name to the contact number in the Contacts List. Sent a suggestion to Garmin about this. Does the 2 fix this?
You can attach a name from within the website portal
I’m talking about when I add a contact directly into the Mini, not through the website. Don’t always have website access on trail.
@@kellycarlen9605 With the IM2 and 1, I have contact names attached to the numbers in my contact list. With the IM2, I can add a name when adding a new contact number or email address. With the app, I can import contacts from my phone as well.
Definitely an upgrade there. The Explore app with the 2 sounds better than the Earthmate crapp, I mean app. And if you can put BOTH contact names AND phone numbers, email addresses, and/or inreach addresses directly into the 2 that’s an improvement.
The mini 1 is on sale for $299 at cabelas right now so it's hard to justify the $200 difference. Thanks for the vid
Is getting a used mini 1 for $200 worth it and a good deal. I only need the SOS feature.
Finally! USB-C. Garmin is finally getting on board with it.
Facebook updates are to a "page" and not a "profile". So you do have to create a specific page that people would use to see your updates.
I wish Garmin had an InReach option on future versions of their GPSMAP product line.
One thing I never hear people talk about is the cheap carabiner they give you.It's just waiting to snap open and drop off in the bush, which is what happened to me! Luckilly it was on, so I was able to ping it and find it before it died. For over $500, they should include a twist lock carabiner.
I really like my Mini 1 and I actually like the Earthmate App and I don't see that the Mini 2 is all that much better, but I'm still considering the upgrade. Thank you for the helpful comparison.
Don't do it. Be eco!
@@thebrowns5337 not trying to be rude here because as a backcountry guy, im all about preserving the environment, but just living, just typing that comment is wasting resources. We cant live without using resources. So in theory the best thing to do is either wipe out humanity to save the earth ( wont happen, at least not for the reason of saving the earth anyway ) or replenishing as much or more than we use. The second option is the only REAL option. USE RESOURCES AT YOUR DISPOSAL, but replenish them
I’m going to doing a self supported R2R Grand Canyon run in November and I’d like to get the 1 to save some money but I’d hate to have the software be useless in a few years.
I’ve still got the original inreach and it still works good for me, now more than 10 years. Still holding a charge somehow…. I might get the new one just bc I’m buying into the ultralight hype.
I was close to getting a zoleo but I dropped my phone on a Backpacking trip. It didn't break but I realized it's best to get an independent device that you can communicate with. If you stop communicating than more than likely your family or friends will think something happened when in fact your phone died or broke.
In addition to the SOS button Zoleo has a check-in button on the unit itself so you can still send out periodic "I'm Okay" messages with your location but yea the Inreach type devices are fairly unique in not relying on a phone for 2-way communication. Zoleo does shine for really long trips or international trips with their seamless messaging as you go into and out of cell coverage so everyone can text your Zoleo number without worry of missing you. They also have a way higher message character count if you want to send lengthy updates. Other than that Garmin has the edge. Hopefully Garmin is working on the app capability to use SMS when your phone has coverage as well.
I have the mini 1 and haven't seen a reason to upgrade. I'm sure, like most folks using the mini's, they bluetooth it to their phone, and they will have ways to charge both devices, so an extra day of battery life is nill. A quick search on Amazon and you'll find usb charging cables with multiple ends for various devices. I switched from Android to Apple and have noticed how much quicker the mini connects to the iPhone. The apps, though, are interesting to me... is the Explorer app that much better than Earthmate? And, since I use the mini in my Jeep off-road, having either the Explorer or Earthmate app in Carplay would be fantastic. I'd dump Gaia if Garmin made this happen. Curious to all input. Thanks in advance and cheers! Pete
Great review! Would love to see more tech reviews
Great info, thanks. Ordered a mini 2.
Does the Mini 2 send/receive messages faster than the Mini 1? The 1 can take a really long time. Does the access to more location satellites help with connecting to Iridium?
Dude, thanks for answering this!! Haha I was just wondering about this. I have the 1 and it’s been great.
I used to use the large in-reach and recently got the in-reach mini 2 & have spend a ton of time messing with it. PLEASE put out a video on how to use the mini. Please please please I wanted it specifically for messaging and I found it to be a struggle to figure out
Oh well. Hindsight being 20-20, I would have waited for the 2 had I known I wasn't going on the trip I bought the inReach mini for last year.
Can you please do a vid on I reach with the new Garmin Messenger App. NOT the messenger device. I have 66i to connect and use w the new app.
Does the mini 1 include the Spine Mount Adapter in the box? just got a mini 2 and didn't see it in the box
Great video. In search for a new locator and looking at the all. And seeing the mini 1 is about $70 cheaper than the mini 2 and was wondering which route to take.
Great review. Unfortunately I'll no longer be using any Garmin products. Their customer service is the worst I've ever encountered. They are all about 💰 💰 💰 and could care less about customers. Makes it easy for me to throw away my inreach mini and start the search for something else for my back country saftey.
I'd be interested in what happened!
@@JustinOutdoors someone hacked my bank account so my card was canceled and my monthly payment to Garmin didn't go through. When I called them they were like talking to the KGB during the Stalin regime. Lied to me. Threatened me.
I was a three year customer $50 a month every month never a late payment.
They acted like they were going to send someone out to break my legs.
They were mad because I wanted to Change my plan to the "freedom" plan because I don't use it every day like I used to.
That kind of customer service deserves only one kind of reaction.
They have lost this customer and the over $600 a year in fees for life.
Awesome video Justin very helpful my friend thanks 👍 be safe on your travels peace ✌️
Thanks for the video. Is the satellite subscription mandatory for SOS call? Thanks.
It is
Hey Justin, been a big fan of the channel for a while. Question, The Mini is now available online for $249. If you had neither device would you get the Mini for that price or the Mini 2 at 400?
I use the device so much and ononger trips that I'd get the mini 2 for the longer battery and USBC charging. If the majority of trips I went on were under 5 days and I didn't use it as much, I'd get the regular mini 1 for $250
So am I correct in my assessment that you can use this device to send and receive texts both on the device and on your phone, but it isn't per se satellite wifi in the woods, right?! You can't still do internet right?
I bet the mini 1 is going on sale! It sure isnt yet, though.
Looks like they've fixed some of the issues with the original mini. I've had mine a few years and it's safe to say I only use it for Comms, it's nav capabilities are woeful.
great review Justin 👏
When looking at map on phone you keep it on the entire time?
The way I do it is to open the app (OsmAnd), try to remember where I am and where I have to go. Then I close the app and when I'm not sure, I reopen the app (which activates GPS) and do the same process again to save battery.
Not sure if this is how people navigate on their phone when doing lots of miles.
I keep my phone in my pocket most of the time. I also usually navigate with my watch
Good comparison. Many thanks!
What an excellent *and helpful* comparison -- thank you!
Since you have been following this, can you tell me if you sense that Garmin will be pushing out an *updated* InReach Mini version 3 anytime real soon?
also, fwiw -- consider adding an amazon affiliate link -- more ppl will be able to buy from them (even tho they're problematic) than from REI.
If you dont use the navigation on the garmin inreach mini, why not use the garmin inreach messenger? I believe it has a much longer battery life
This video was made before the messenger came out.
Does the Mini 2 have a brighter screen?
Great video. My mini 1 is fine for my uses so I’ll stick with that.
I think, if the battery is the same size, but you're seeing a large discrepancy in how both perform, they could probably send a software update and solve that... I don't think, as a safety device, that that is out of the realms of possibility. I don't know if it's worth it to get the new one if you already own one and you only use it casually. I do agree the old interface is clunky, but it's still functional.
The battery performance difference is due to the mini 2 using a more efficient processor. Unfortunately, you wouldn't be able to patch that into the mini 1
Thank you very helpful in my purchase decision
I do not have the mini 1 so the mini 2 will be my choice. The bread crumb tracking in itself and alone makes the mini 2 worth the extra money for me.
I'm developing a similar product called Out of Reach, it is an actual potato 🥔 and will only connect to the carbs network. People will have to guess where you are and if you're alive. The potato will retail for $139.
This was great - thanks!
Love my inreach 1. Great they are improving it though.
Gonna buy my first one soon, so I have a question. I like the back track feature of the 2, but can’t you just set a way point of where you start with the 1 and do the same thing? Good video, thx!
Trackback will take you back along your original route, while setting a waypoint will just create a straight line. You could probably still approximate your way back with the waypoint as long as you're on a trail and it isn't tricky.
Best regards from the Lower Chitral District of Pakistan!
All those functions your mention need a subscription. Can you please tell us what is the functionality of the device without the subscription?
Basically none
Is there any word from Garmin to do a software update/upgrade for the mini one?
Nice piece of gear though but I’ll stick with my original mini . Thanks for the comparison
Unlikely for any of the major changes to trickle through to the mini 1 as there is a new processor in the 2 and that is what gives it the new capabilities.
@@JustinOutdoors thanks for the reply Justin
Funny how many reviews on all these communicators have problems with messages never going through or going through days later and not knowing until you go home. Sounds greeeaaattttt..... 😂
Very helpful summary
I am finally going to cave and get one. This review was helpful. I didn't see the end screen pop up that you mention at the end........
Is it possible that the older, more used battery of your 1 could effect the battery life or is it mostly unused?
It hasn't degraded much over the time I have had it. I based my battery life assessment off of what I was seeing when I first got it though.
@@JustinOutdoors ok, that makes sense. 👌 thanks
Thanks!
Dang it, there are some things to really like about the 2! Had I had a crystal ball, I would not have bought a 1 last year, lol. Tough decision . . . :)
Never had one but I will get the latest and greatest one considering what it’s for. Too bad it’s that much more.
Awesome review. I am a new sub for your channel and I've been trying to figure which Garmin Satellite Communicator I should get.
The Mini 2 is the best in my opinio!
@@JustinOutdoors Thanks for your opinion I appreciate it. What do you think of the inreach explorer+ ?? I’m not to worried about 7.5 oz vs 4.5 oz. Just wanna have a backup if something was to happen to my phone.
So these are used in case ur in trouble out in the wild and u can send an sos?
exactly :)
@@JustinOutdoors I’ll buy one. Thank u for the video. Doing the SoCal bdr this month. Can never be too careful.
Do you have any experience with the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator... It looks like a cheaper option if you are willing to always have your phone on you.
The device is cheaper but the plans cost more and lack unlimited check-ins without an additional surcharge. The minimum plan price with unlimited check-ins is around $26 compared to Garmin at $15. Garmin drops to $12/mo under their annual plan which Zoleo has no competing plan for. In the long run their higher plan pricing tends to wipe out most of the savings off the device. Zoleo stands out notably only if you want to text a lot since app to app boosts the character count per message from 160 to 950 and their mid tier plan is a rather large message allotment per month. For the lowest or highest tier plan Garmin is better in my opinion and is way cheaper if you compare costs over 9 or 12 months usage where you can save substantially with Garmin's annual pricing.
@@natea1042 Thanks for the info Nate!
what nate said regarding plans. I'll have a comparison video with the zoleo and mini 2 coming out very soon!
You mentioned they both have 950 mAh batteries but both Mini and the Mini 2 actually have White 1250 mAh batteries. There is a Blue replacement battery available that is 950 mAh. Was that just misstated in the video?
Thanks for the heads up! Garmin did not have this info available when I was researching the vid
Good objective review.
Nice side by side Justin! Just gave ya quick shout out at the end of my latest video, you might be rubbing off 🤣 I really thought you were leaning towards making the 2 worth it over the 1 but I agree with you, if you have the 1 already the 2 doesn't seem to be significantly better. How about the price points? Has the 1 come down at all? Is the 2 more than the cost previously of the 1? Also, quick heads up, I wasn't able to see your end video link, not sure if it's a glitch or what.
can u send messages with inrich mini 1?
Why is the inreach explorer seemingly impossible to get?
no idea!
Pro-cessor. Is that a Canadian pronunciation? I've only ever heard it pronounced as process-or.
Congratulations GARMIN SATELLITEFON IDOL'S OILFIELDS global success 💎🎶💕💖🌎
I've been thinking about getting one of these as I never have a single were I go camping I'm not the best when it comes to technology so are they easy to use thanks for the video atvb Jimmy 😎😎👍👍
Just be prepared to pay a decent amount monthly for the subscription.
@@AtomicBleach OK thanks 👍👍
Fairly easy to use but still require an ability to use a phone and basic apps.
@@JustinOutdoors thanks for your reply mate 👍👍
Question - do you have incident coverage with the IERCC for the SOS feature ? Considering dropping the $30 for a year of coverage. Do you happen to know if there are stipulations for being responsible for search & rescue fees? Is it only negligence or perhaps regional rules around this ?
There is no included coverage but its generally not needed anyway. It will vary by country but for North America and most of Europe Search and Rescue is federally funded so there is no cost to the user. There are a few examples of agencies passing costs on to the party that called out the rescue but its generally only situations of extreme negligence where the emergency was totally avoidable with some basic planning. In short the "Insurance" they offer is pretty much not going to ever actually be used so its just wasted money and pure profit for Garmin.
@@natea1042 thanks! Was always curious about this
Most SAR’s are NOT Federally funded in the US. They’re usually local (so State or county) funded. Some are private. Really good example of private are most air ambulance services. Maybe you can get the National Guard to pick you up, but the vast majority of Life Flights are private companies or for-profit hospitals. I have the IERCC coverage in addition to my employer heath insurance. If I ever need an evac in a chopper I want the most coverage I can get. Hope I never use it, but two bucks and change a month is cheap compared to the per hour cost of a helicopter.
@@kellycarlen9605 Most people will find themselves in the national parks systems and the big ones are absolutely federally funded and have their own crews on standby. Specify State too if you like, same thing. Tax dollars at work. The larger National forests usually have cooperation from the NG. In NA we simply dont have the sprawling Crowns Land like Canada does so its hard to get lost anywhere that is inaccessible. Its also a bit fantastical to talk about pressing that button as if it summons a magical helicopter. The reality is most search and rescue operations conducted in the US are walk in, evaluated, and walked out. Private companies like Life Flight are generally for urban coverage. Not only are there just a few helicopters per State but they also have an operational coverage of just 150-200 miles of their base.
Nate, let me poke a hole in your response. I live by Yellowstone NP. Closest Level II trauma center is in Idaho Falls. If you have to be air evac’d from Yellowstone to Idaho Falls that’s via private Lifeflight. You or your insurance is picking up the cost...not the Park Service or the Feds. If you need Level I trauma care that’s Salt Lake City. People get air evac’d from Yellowstone to SLC on occasion, normally from either West Yellowstone, Montana or sometimes out of the airport in Grand Teton, Wyoming. You may luck out and get rescued and flown out for free, but that’s not how it always works. So even if you get rescued in a NP, you can still be on the hook for the cost of a helicopter ride. Having some kind of SAR/air evac insurance is smart. It’s really inexpensive and can save you from tens of thousands of dollars in unexpected costs.
Around here Lifeflight is a big asset for rural coverage, in fact that’s one of its biggest uses, so it’s incorrect to say Lifeflight is pretty much for urban coverage only. At least around here.
Carry a solar panel if you're going in the bush.
I don't see the link
it's in the video description
1250mAh is the battery capacity per Garmin owner’s pdf..
Trackback on all the time is a good idea. When you realise you need trackback it’s too late to switch it on 😋
Looks like #2 is the way to go…but when is #3 coming out 😳
I don't really see the point personally of this feature. If you need to get back in a hurry, the way you came might not be the fastest. It would make more sense to check your map and find a route from there, maybe even to the closest village. For example recently I went to hike through the woods to a communications tower on top of a hill. The fastest and safest way back was through the paved service road.
Now of course if you're completely lost and you don't have a map, then it could be useful but I wouldn't rely on my inReach Mini for navigation.
@@mathieuclement8011there have been times i have been in the dark of night or in very thick fog and tracking device has saved my bacon on my Garmin Rhino. So for me the tracking on the mini 2 makes sense.
I think I'm going Zoleo.
Wait until next Friday ;)
@@JustinOutdoors please tell me why Justin I dont want to waste my money on zoleo if you are onto something better. Hey wait it is Friday what's up!!??
@@chrisschell90 NEXT Friday. haha. I have a full video coming out comparing the two. Too long to write it all out :P
I have a hard time trusting Garmin products. Not sold.
why?
Use your watch and phone for navigation 🤔 don't you mean, use your paper map and compass for navigation and use your phone and watch as back up if needed 😉
It’s not pronounced “pro”cessor.
Depends where you come from
How to tell everyone you are uneducated without saying it. Pro tip: People in different parts of the world pronounce things differently.
@@daisydela we are from the same part of the world.
Overpriced Garmin crap with recurring subscription plan. Get a PLB from ACR Electronics and no subscription plus uses superior satellite technology.
Every SAR person I have talked to said they prefer people have SOS devices with 2-way communication. The subscription plans are costly though and I think a PLB is better than nothing. But if you can afford it, I think going with SAR recommends is ideal.
@@JustinOutdoors PLB transmit at higher wattage (5w), use a lower frequency so are better at transmission longer distances and in valleys or forests and the COSPAS-SARSAT satellites are monitored by government and military not some minimum wage drone at a Garmin call center. So, there’s that plus lower hardware cost, no monthly fees, waterproof and buoyant.
@@MIAMIC70 Garmin "drones" respond well. I'm sure they are paid decently for their service.
PLBs are far inferior when it comes to location accuracy (Mini2 has GPS, Galileo, QZSS, and Beidou which cheap PLBs cant come close to competing with) and most Search and Rescue personnel are not equipped or trained in locating PLB homing signals because they're mostly worthless unless they're in wide open spaces. As a result, in forests and especially surrounded by mountains, PLBs are accurate roughly to within a 1km radius at best. Second to this is that being able to relay the nature of your emergency is also incredibly valuable and shouldn't be understated. Without it Search and Rescue has no idea if someone sprained an ankle (needs assistance) or fell off a cliff (needs immediate evacuation) and with a PLB they wouldn't know until HOURS had passed when they finally deploy and locate you.