Unless you have an unlimited plan, custom messages (including incoming messages) will be counted against your message allotment.Location Tracking and Sharing And three, you save on weight and packing space. Compact, simple, two-way satellite communications using proven technology and relatively affordable subscription options Price: $280 List Pros: Small, affordable subscription options, proven satellite and dispatch networks, simple Cons: Only supports SOS and tracking on the device itself, no custom messaging, occasional hardware issues Activating this feature is simple, requiring only a few pushes of a button. Until recently, only professional adventurers owned satellite communication devices. Finally, keep in mind that many of the same gripes we have with the SPOT X above are also applicable to the Gen4, including an expensive subscription plan and Globalstars sparser coverage.See the SPOT Gen4 Satellite GPS Messenger. It is a little expensive upfront, but no annual fees or subscription plans are required. If your satellite messenger requires a cell phone to work properly and that phone is lost or damaged your messengers functionalities become extremely limited. Instead of a basic outline of the voyage ahead, you can view a detailed satellite picture of it. To add to our praise, the Somewear Global Hotspot has one of the most affordable subscription services here, with a $25 activation fee and the option of an ultralight annual subscription of just $8.33/month. In each of the few most recent years, he has racked up over 500,000 vertical feet of human-powered ascent. Satellite messengers use either a pay-as-you-go, or monthly and yearly contracts. Finally, unlike the competition, ZOLEO charges a $4/month suspension fee, and its plans are fairly limited (you don't get the option of saving with an annual plan). Left to right: ACR Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), SPOT Gen3 Messenger, DeLorme inReach SE and Explorer messengers, and SPOT Global Phone. The 700i has the same service plans as other Garmin satt devices, meaning its able to record your location as frequently as every two minutes but tracking isnt included in the basic option. Some offer monthly service if you are planning a one-time trip. Messenger satellite has been launched by NASA for the study of planet Mercury. SPOT devices run on the Globalstar network, a satellite provider with less reach than the Iridium network. Unfortunately, they do not currently do so. A Garmin satellite messenger also covers your back when it comes to medical emergencies and other tricky situations out in remote wilderness locations. Looking for a comparison of the various satellite communicators and the cost involved in running them in Australia? A one-way messenger is undeniably limited, but SPOT has built in a lot of potential for nuanced communication with the Gen4, including three distinct help options and two separate preset messages. It lets you send an SOS alert to the 24/7 International Emergency Response Coordination Center. Satellite Communicator-Two Way Global SMS Text Messenger, Emergency SOS Alerting. Subscription service costs can vary widely and depend a lot on the unit you have purchased and the add-on functions you may want to include. Read more: Somewear Global Hotspot review. If you're breaking off your toothbrush handle to reduce weight in your hyperlight pack, you need an inReach Mini. Either way, you dont want to go off the grid without one. Category: Two-wayWeight: 3.5 oz.Satellite network: IridiumWhat we like: Inexpensive start-up price and helpful GroupTrack feature.What we dont: Unrefined app and expensive pay structure. A satellite Messenger is a GPS tracking device that uses the satellite network to provide text messaging and GPS tracking depending on the subscription type purchased. 12 month term applies Includes Data Management & Mapping Solution 100 Custom Messages (Overages: 25 per msg) UNLIMITED S.O.S. Do your further homework on its limitations and functionality. You can get alerts or send messages using your compatible Garmin watch. Aside from testing gear, Jed's primary work is in all kinds of mountain guiding. We like to use preset messages to say something totally distinct from the check-in messageit could be a request for a weather forecast, a note that conveys a non-specific itinerary change, or a simple I love you. Finally, all two-way messengers allow you to send completely custom messages to any phone number, email address, or even a social media account, which are usually limited in length (for example, Garmins character limit is 160 and Higher Grounds is 480). In short, if you press the SOS button on your device, help will come, whether via helicopter, by vehicle, or on foot. After that initial 4 months, you can cancel or change plans at any time. The inReach Explorer+ is one of the largest devices we tested, but it also does a little more than others. Text messages can be both sent and received. Once your distress signal reaches its satellite network, it needs to get to a staffed, terrestrial dispatch service. To revisit this article, select My Account, thenView saved stories, If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. The SPOT, Bivy Stick, and inReach apps do not allow you to send and receive messages over cell/WiFi. No ads. functionality. Weight: 3.5 oz/100 gBattery: Rechargeable lithium-ionBattery Life: Up to 30 days @ 30 min. Some also provide rudimentary test procedures that offer confirmation of actual transmission of the signal, but this drains the battery and sometimes costs more. Weight: 5.2 oz/148 gBattery: Non-hazmat lithiumBattery Life: Up to 28 hours operational Messaging: NoSize: 4.5 x 2 x 1.5Pairs With: N/AWeather Forecast: NoSOS Function/Tracking: YesLocation Sharing: YesFull Keyboard: No, Pros & Cons: Digital display Multi-constellation receiver MEOSAR compatible Waterproof: 1 hour @16.40 ft, 10 min. With this keyboard, the user can text readily without needing to link to a separate, battery-draining device. question about satellite messenger plans. Two-way messengers allow you to both send and receive messages, updates, and information. Other than more detailed GPS navigation, there is literally nothing the inReach Mini 2 cant do that other backcountry satellite devices can. Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. The device has a built-in, physical QWERTY keyboard. Where Spot does offer more is in its optional S.O.V. Iridium 9555 5. Globalstar has less coverage (check its maps here). .css-v1xtj3{display:block;font-family:FreightSansW01,Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif;font-weight:100;margin-bottom:0;margin-top:0;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}@media (any-hover: hover){.css-v1xtj3:hover{color:link-hover;}}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-v1xtj3{font-size:1.1387rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:1rem;margin-top:0.625rem;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-v1xtj3{line-height:1.2;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-v1xtj3{font-size:1.18581rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-top:0rem;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-v1xtj3{font-size:1.23488rem;line-height:1.2;margin-top:0.9375rem;}}The Best Pocket Knives to Buy Now, The Best Tick Repellents to Stay Bug-Free, Get the Right Multitool for the Right Situation, The Best Outdoor Gear from REIs Memorial Day Sale, The Best Bivy Sacks for Any Outdoor Adventure, The Best Rooftop Tents for Camping on Your Car. Similarly, the SPOT X, Bivy Stick, ZOLEO, and Somewear Global Hotspot offer all the above forms of non-emergency communication. Home Blog How To Choose The Best Satellite Messengers In 2022. With the inReach's, the SPOT X, ZOLEO, and Somewear Hotspot, you can send an OK message from the app or from the device itself. You get a convenient user interface too: most of these messengers have large screens or pair with your smartphone, which is a big step up from a standalone device with just a few buttons. For an effective response, your emergency needs to be one that still gives you some time. Office 1601, Prime Tower Business Bay Phone: +971 4 435 6800 Fax: +971 4 435 6799 Email: info@cygnus.co Timings: 9AM - 6PM (+4 GMT) Contact. Getting up-to-date weather forecasts can make or break an expedition, so most satellite messengers do a great job prioritizing this feature. This service leverages a device "test" procedure to send notifications to friends and family, sometimes with location data attached. The technology continues to improve, and in 2022, theres an option for nearly everyone, whether youre a serious adventurer headed out on a big expedition, a resident of a rural area looking to stay connected, or a weekend warrior wanting an extra measure of safety. Both tracking and sharing are included in the majority of subscriptions, and spending up will often give you the ability to track at shorter intervals. There are two major types of emergency messaging networks used by devices in our review. You can stock up on gifts for your family now (or gadgets for yourself). You can expect fairly quick up-link times depending on your location and view of the sky. The SPOT X is unique, but it is exceeded in some ways by its close competitors, particularly in regards to size and satellite system used. Again, we found no real difference between message sending or receiving to and from devices on the same satellite network. Garmin inReach Explorer+, Handheld Satellite Communicator with Topo Maps and GPS Navigation 1,528 17 offers from $369.99 Spot 3 Satellite GPS Messenger - Orange 954 7 offers from $134.95 Garmin inReach Mini 2, Lightweight and Compact Satellite Communicator, Hiking Handheld, Orange 332 32 offers from $389.99 Special offers and product promotions It's also the metric that unites the category. The Bivy Stick in action during an early season ski outing in Grand Teton National Park. Satellite messengers work exactly the same, only they use satellites for their communication network. Get peace of mind with S.O.S. The two main services are Globalstar and Iridium: Globalstar supports the SPOT devices here, while Iridium is more widely used by Garmin, Bivy Stick, ZOLEO, Somewear, and more. According to Apple, this service will be free for two years. For global travel or backpacking where keeping your cell phone charged is not an issue, the Somewear Global Hotspot is smart satellite messenger with an affordable price tag. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day. Somewear's founders worked at Apple, Tesla, and Intuit (the company that makes Mint and TurboTax), which you can tell by looking at the attractive, easy-to-use device and app (our full review). The products we review here all have their purpose, but some are definitely better suited for you than others. For anyone around when cell phones first became a thing, this is similar to text messaging where you had to hit a button three times to get the letter L, its a bit more cumbersome but once youre used to it writing messages is quick and easy. This may not be an issue for travel in and around North America and most of Europe. The water-resistance increased from IPX7 to IPX8, so the device should survive a dunk in water up to 6.5 feet deep for 30 minutes or less. All satellite messengers and communicators are capable of sending some sort of emergency GPS coordinate or message (see product details above for the particular functionalities of each device). Unlike PLBs, which use a public (read: free) satellite system to initiate rescues, the advanced tech of satellite messengers requires a subscription to a private network. In the worst of emergencies, this is all that SAR needs to know. Checking, sending, or logging your location costs 10 cents per transaction on the basic service plan, so consider upgrading if you anticipate heavy usage. This sets it apart from the top products on the market, earning it our highest award. Two, messengers are also much more durable and water resistant than cell phones. The only catch; you must commit to four months upfront. One-way satellite communicators take PLBs to another level, allowing the user to send a specific message. In the event of an emergency, the most critical information you can send with an SOS message is where you are. With both commitment levels, youll pay a setup fee and choose among a range of plans that offer a limited (or unlimited) number of messages, location tracking intervals, and more. What is The Best Satellite Messenger Network? Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Another sort of non-emergency messaging is location tracking. These devices are generally small, relatively lightweight, and durable. Read on to find out about the seven messengers we recommend. Next, there are the transmission of manual "OK" messages, which usually have location data attached. And, just like cell plans you will usually pay less for a yearly contract over monthly subscriptions and should also anticipate some sort of activation fee. However, thanks to their affordability (no subscription needed), simplicity, and years-long battery life, PLBs can serve as great backup devices. Its also a great tool for recreational groups or off-the-grid camps: The GroupTrack feature allows easy communication between devices in the field, along with a helpful tracking tool for those connected to the internet back at basecamp (keep in mind this service will cost you a premium at $70/month, per device). That is, your device can send messages to your contacts or and SOS to search and rescue but you will not be able to receive replies or updates. When it comes to backcountry travel, safety is always a big concern. Although its fairly basic, the X does have built-in navigation. It's simpler, designed to be fully functional as a standalone device. One-way messengers limited functionality makes them more of a PLB than a true satellite messenger. You can still send messages from the device if your smartphone runs out of batteries, gets lost, or stops working for some other reason. Of these, only the SPOT Gen4 doesn't allow two-way messaging in any context. We're here to help you find the right slate for your needs. Aside from coverage differences, elaborated below, they work the same for SOS messaging. Bivystick Bivystick Satellite Communicator, 20 Viral TikTok Gifts That Are Actually Worth It, Step Away From Screens With the 25 Best Family Board Games, This Really Is the Greatest Bag Ever Made, 15 Gifts for People Who Are Perpetually Cold. Podcast Promo 150 Minute Monthly Satellite Phone Plan: 150 $99.95 / Month: $899.00: $0.00: Buy with service Plans have a one-year minimum term . From using less mobile data to live captions for videos, these settings will make your phone run more smoothly. Whats more, the fact that its free is a fairly big deal, especially given that the average satellite messenger will cost you about $25 in startup costs and a minimum of $15 per month. Normally we would expect newer products, especially products with less function, to be smaller than their predecessors. But, sometimes things dont go exactly according to plan. There are some drawbacks to the Hotspot. We haven't yet used the latest ACR version, though we've confirmed that it is functionally the same as the Bivy Stick Blue that we have tested for a while. You do lose some ankle support when carrying a heavy pack or traversing rocky trails No piece of gear is more critical to summiting high peaks than footwear. Another size comparison of these two performers. For SOS/Emergency use only, the best value is a device on the public-sector/governmental COSPAS/SARSAT network. Monthly subscription required: $20, $35 or $50 (25, 250 or unlimited satellite messages) with cellular, Wi-Fi and SOS messaging included. If you already use and are committed to a GPS app or prefer paper maps, skipping out on real-time navigation is another way to save money. Weight: 5.3 oz. On any of these devices, sending customized messages from the app is far more user-friendly than the on-device messaging of the inReach satellite messengers. The second version has everything we loved about the original, and more. Choosing a satellite messenger can be thoroughly mystifying. Average cost per minute on satellite phone networks is $1. Satellite Messengers. First off, Apples emergency services are only available in the US and Canada, while the messengers above can be used world wide. Editors note: The Global Hotspot is currently unavailable, but Somewear expects fresh stock for spring 2023.See the Somewear Global Hotspot. Some of them do not do anything more. Most of your time spent researching satellite messengers is spent looking at different subscription plans. GearLab is commited to honest, objective, reviews. Pricing plans can be a bit more costly than other devices but the inReach Mini 2 offers, by far, the most functionalities and versatility of any satellite messenger. How To Choose The Best Satellite Messengers In 2022, Subscriptions and Satellite Messenger Pricing. (Save Our Vehicle) feature, which sends your alert out to Nation Safe Drivers for timely vehicle assistance (additional subscription required)all for $150 less than the Mini. Some devices allow you respond or chat with the emergency service, others simply send your message and coordinates. The original inReach Mini is still available from some retailers. | Battery Life: 35 hours to 24 days | Real-Time Navigation: Yes | Standalone Device: Yes. Third-party retailers regularly offer free phones with the purchase of a yearly contract. After the initial 3-month commitment, suspend for just $4/mo. Weight: 7.0 oz. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The Bivy Stick with a compact multi tool for size comparison. Why we like it: Most feature-rich in an ultralight package The Garmin InReach Mini is a pint-sized version of the InReach satellite messenger. It looks more like an external hard drive than the chunky tactical appearance of its predecessor, but the changes arent all cosmetic. See the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator. Most recently, the product and branding of the original "start-up" were acquired by a much bigger player in the wilderness communication market: ACR. Were all for big adventures that take us off the grid, but its never a bad idea to have a way of getting in touch. And we liked that it has the same vehicle rescue service (for an additional fee) as the X, though we thankfully didnt have to use it. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. However, an affordable and flexible pricing plan paired with a rugged and easy to use design make the ACR Bivy Stick a smart option for budget conscious adventurers whose trips dont usually last more than a few days a few times a year. This helps support our journalism. He almost always brings a satellite messenger or personal locator beacon along on his adventures, something his family appreciates. As for the hardware, there are major improvements compared to the first-generation device. Finally, there is automated tracking. The app was very intuitive and allowed us to send texts through cellular and Wi-Fi networks when we were in range. You are able to make calls anywhere in the world to any cellular or landline at the same flat rate cost. You can get around this without losing all the advantages of a two-way device by getting a messenger capable of being paired with a cell phone but that does not need pairing for full functionality. Category: Two-wayWeight: 5.3 oz.Satellite network: IridiumWhat we like: A two-way messenger for just $200; messages can be up to 950 characters long.What we dont: Heavy and bulky; limited data plans. That wont be a dealbreaker for the explorers who just use satellite communicators to, you know, communicate. Still, its an attractive option for infrequent users who can stomach the initial price tag, which feels steep for a satellite communicator thats as reliant on a phone as the Hotspot is. Learn More Add To Cart Available to ship in 1-3 business days. Moving up the list, you get barebones two-way messengers like the Bivy Stick and Somewear, which can send SOS signals on their own but must be paired with a smartphone for most other functions. It's tinya mere 3.5 ouncesand utilizes the super-fast Iridium satellite network, which will let you send an SOS from the middle of the Indian Ocean. @ 33 ft Easy to use Floats No subscription or activation fees LED & infrared strobe lights for night rescue Multifunction clip & ACR skins included. Its rated IPX7 waterproof. Additionally, we found differences, even when coverage seemed intact, in the reliable transmission of sent messages. The only major downside to the Somewears design is the lack of unlimited preset messages or check-ins, which are helpful for staying in touch while keeping costs low (you get 75 location shares per month in the ultralight plan). There you can send and respond to emails and texts, and because youll get a dedicated SMS number and email address, contacts can reach you without any barriers. Aside from the digital keyboard, the biggest shortcoming is that Garmins most affordable service plan limits you to 10 custom messages (including any received texts) and doesnt cover tracking. Each of the four satellite communication networks has coverage limitations, and all satellite communications have inherent restrictions. Having a full keyboard allows you to send and receive two-way messages directly to your device without the need for a paired smartphone. 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