In-depth Evaluation of Garmin's inReach Messenger Plus Device
The Garmin inReach Messenger Plus, an upgraded version of the original inReach Messenger, offers significant improvements in battery life and performance, particularly when it comes to handling voice notes, image messages, and navigation features.
One of the key enhancements is the device's larger battery capacity, which extends usage time during active functions like messaging and navigation. While the original Messenger has up to 28 days of standby battery life, active usage typically reduces this significantly. The Messenger Plus, on the other hand, is designed to maintain longer operational times for these demanding functions.
In terms of messaging capability, the Messenger Plus enhances group messaging and multimedia options, such as voice notes and image messages, which demand more power and processing but are handled efficiently by the device. The original Messenger supports 2-way text messaging and app sync but does not emphasize advanced multimedia messaging as prominently as the Plus model.
Regarding navigation performance, both devices use the Iridium satellite network for global coverage. However, the Messenger Plus includes enhanced navigation features with better battery endurance during GPS use, making it more reliable for extended trips where navigation and communication are needed simultaneously. The original Messenger is compact and rugged but lacks the upgraded battery and some of the newer messaging features that improve user experience on the Plus model.
The Messenger Plus also offers faster messaging speeds, although not dramatically so. It can send 1600-character messages, compared to the 160-character limit on older Garmin inReach devices.
The Messenger Plus has two battery modes: Performance mode and Low power mode. In Low power mode, the device checks for new messages every hour or so, improving battery life. In Performance mode, the device maintains a near-constant satellite connection, which drains the battery more aggressively than the older models.
The Messenger Plus uses Iridium Messaging Transport (IMT) for messaging, whereas the original Messenger uses Short Burst Data (SBD). This change to IMT results in faster, more modern messaging.
The Messenger Plus also broadcasts at up to 9.33 watts, significantly more than the original Messenger's 3.89 watts. This higher transmit power improves reliability in tree cover and canyons.
Garmin has updated their subscription plans to accommodate the new image and voice messages on the Messenger Plus, but these plans are not cheap. Overages for image and voice messages cost $1 USD each.
The Messenger Plus also allows users to use the Garmin Explore app for downloading offline maps and creating routes or waypoints. It is also compatible with the Garmin Explore app for navigation features.
The Messenger Plus also supports tapbacks and emojis, similar to modern smartphone messengers. However, photo messages sometimes take 10 minutes or longer, especially in dense forest, to send.
The inReach Messenger Plus represents the most significant change to the inReach device since its initial release. It is more expensive than the original Messenger, priced at $499 compared to $299. Despite the higher price, the Messenger Plus offers improved battery life, faster messaging, and enhanced navigation features, making it a valuable tool for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers.
[1] Garmin. (2021). inReach Messenger Plus. Retrieved from https://www.garmin.com/en-US/products/handhelds/inreach/inreach-messenger-plus/
[2] Garmin. (2021). inReach Messenger. Retrieved from https://www.garmin.com/en-US/products/handhelds/inreach/inreach-messenger/
[3] OutdoorGearLab. (2021). Garmin inReach Messenger Plus Review. Retrieved from https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/reviews/garmin-inreach-messenger-plus-review
- The Garmin inReach Messenger Plus, a sports gadget for outdoor enthusiasts, is equipped with technology that supports navigation using maps, particularly in the forest.
- The Messenger Plus offers advanced messaging capabilities, allowing users to send voice notes, image messages, and long text messages using smartphones.
- To manage power consumption while maintaining performance, the Messenger Plus provides two battery modes: Low power mode and Performance mode.
- With enhanced battery endurance during GPS use, the Messenger Plus is ideal for hiking trips requiring extended navigation and communication in the wilderness.
- The Messenger Plus not only offers faster messaging but also includes modern features like tapbacks, emojis, and compatibility with the Garmin Explore app for offline maps and routes.
