Introduction
Roaming into the wild and dense woods is a dream for trekkers and hikers, where you don’t have to worry about getting disturbed by others on your phone and social media accounts. Though there is a lot more your smart phone does, it gives you cellular network-based maps and navigation to find your way when needed. However, there is a limitation of uses for smart phone navigation in remote, off-grid, or emergency situations when network coverage doesn’t exist.
In today’s world, staying connected no matter where you are has become essential, especially for outdoor enthusiasts for any trekking or hiking trip. That’s where satellite messengers come into play. A satellite messenger is a small navigation cum communication device that enables you to stay in touch and get navigation without any mobile network reception.
Satellite messenger for outdoor adventures
Satellite messenger, a communication and navigation device that works without a mobile network, is for explorers, hikers, trekkers, seafarers, emergency responders, and more who work or roam in distant remote regions to send and receive messages, navigate, and broadcast their own location to call help when needed.
These compact devices offer a lifeline in remote areas where cellular network service is non-existent. With a single push of the button, you can send pre-programmed messages to loved ones, letting them know you are safe and sound.
But these ‘Satellite Messengers’ do much more than just send messages; they also provide crucial SOS functionality, allowing you to call for help in emergencies. Equipped with GPS technology, these messengers enable accurate location tracking, ensuring rescue teams can quickly locate you in case of trouble.
What’s more, some Satellite Messenger models offer advanced features like weather updates and navigation assistance, further enhancing your outdoor experience. Whether hiking, camping, or going on a backcountry adventure, having a satellite messenger by your side brings peace of mind and ensures you are never alone in the wilderness.
The need for satellite messengers
Today, where we have advanced technologies to simplify our lives, similarly for outdoor adventure enthusiasts, these satellite messengers have become indispensable gadgets. These compact in size devices offer a lifeline in the regions where conventional communication methods (like mobile phones, etc.) fail. These gadgets make sure that you can stay connected with loved ones and get in touch with any emergency services when needed, regardless of location.
- Keep you connected in no-network zones
- Precise GPS tracking for safety and navigation
- Expedite rescue operations when needed
- Gives you peace of mind
- Lifeline in remote areas
We understand that Satellite messengers are reliable emergency contact gadgets for outdoor adventure enthusiasts. Now, have a look at the best satellite messengers of 2024.
The best satellite messengers of 2024
Garmin inReach Messenger
Garmin inReach Messenger, designed by an American, Swiss-domiciled multinational technology company, turned out to be a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts like hikers and trekkers. This compact yet powerful device offers two-way messaging, GPS tracking, and SOS features to make sure that you are always connected and safe, even in remote locations and dense woods. With its rugged design and intuitive interface, the Garmin inReach Messenger is a trusted companion for adventurers worldwide and one of the best satellite messengers of 2024.
Dimensions – 3.1 x 2.5 x 0.9 in | 7.8 x 6.4 x 2.3 cm
Display Size – 1 x 0.43 in, 1.08 in diagonal | 2.52 x 1.1 cm, 2.74 cm diagonal
Display Resolution – 160 x 68 px
Lens Material – Chemically strengthened glass
Display Type – Sunlight-readable, monochrome, transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP)
Weight – 4 oz | 113.9 g
Water Rating – IPX7
Interface – USB-C
Message composition – On-device options/in-app
Satellite system – Iridium
Connections Wireless Connectivity – BLUETOOTH®, ANT+®
Battery Type – Rechargeable internal lithium-ion
Battery Life – Based on usages as given –
- Up to 28 days with a message or location sent every 10 minutes with full sky view; up to 14 days with moderate tree cover
- Up to 6 days with a message or location sent every 2 minutes with full sky view; up to 3 days with moderate tree cover
- Up to 46 days with a message or location sent every 30 minutes with full sky view; up to 23 days with moderate tree cover
What makes the Garmin inReach Messenger at the top of the list in the satellite messenger world is its capability of diverse communication; this American-based satellite gadget is a boon for outdoor enthusiasts. It is one of the best overall devices to date, and yes, we have reasons to claim this. When there is no cellular network, it switches to the default Iridium satellite network to further communication and keep you connected.
If you often roam in and out of the backcountry and always go ‘no connection,’, then Garmin inReach Messenger is your perfect ally to stay connected always. It comes with a seamless messaging stream within the app to keep you in touch with your friends and family. Easier than ever, thanks to the on-device options with some pre-programmed menus to scroll on your screen and write messages (have patience; it could be a little slow), it allows you to track your progress or follow the weather forecast to plan accordingly.
All these features come in a compact yet sturdy build in a size 3 X 2.5-inch design that weighs around 4 ounces with a water resistance rating of IPX7, so your inReach messenger can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes without any damage. In similar competitive devices, only Garmin inReach Messenger comes with a small screen that shows battery life, reads messages, and adjusts settings, and more— all within the handheld only.
Garmin inReach Messenger surpasses competitors with its connectivity, robust build quality, and features for regular adventurers. Its seamless integration of on-device and in-app messaging, GPS tracking, and SOS features in a compact size will make it the top choice for outdoor enthusiasts worldwide in 2024.
SPOT X
Source: Globalstar
Message Composition – On-device composition
Battery Life – 240 hours in 10-minute tracking mode
Weight – 7 oz.
Bluetooth Range – Up to 30 ft
Operating Temperature – -4 to +140 F | -20 to +60 C
Storage Temperature – -4 to +140 F | -20 to +60 C
Operating Altitude – -328 to 21,320 ft | -100 to 6500 m
Water Resistance – IP67
Battery Life – 240 hr (10 Days) in 10 min Tracking Mode * Battery life is based on a full charge during initial device usage and ideal operating temperature of 77F with a clear view of the sky with no obstructions
Satellite System – Globalstar
SPOT X Satellite Messenger is one of the best on-device communicators. It is designed for the adventurer who prefers not to constantly use a smartphone for navigation and communication. It serves all your communication needs while roaming in dense woods or mountainous regions across the world.
What makes SPOT X stand out among communication devices is its two-way communication capability with SOS and wayfinding features. Although it can be used alone without connecting to your smartphone, you still have the option to use the connected smartphone app to send and receive messages.
The only downside of this SPOT X Satellite Messenger we have observed is that the SPOT Globalstar network is one of the slowest satellite connections. So, while using SPOT X, the user needs to find a clear path to the sky for the device connectivity; then only it will speed up.
Garmin GPSMAP 67i
Message Composition – On-device composition
Battery Life – 165 hours in tracking mode and up to 425 hours in expedition mode
Size – (L x W x D): 2.5” x 6.4” x 1.4” (6.2 x 16.3 x 3.5 cm)
Weight – 8.1 oz (230 g) with batteries
Preloaded maps – TopoActive, routable
Connections Wireless Connectivity – Wi-Fi®, BLUETOOTH®, ANT+®
inReach Weather – Weather updates with an inReach subscription
Water Resistance – IPX7
Satellite System – Iridium® satellite network
When it comes to pinpointing your location using a Satellite Messenger, the Garmin GPSMAP 67i Satellite Communicator is always ahead of the available competition. Its built-in technology ensures location accuracy, even in rugged terrains like canyons or dense woods. It gives you inReach ® technology powered two-way messaging with interactive SOS alerts and location sharing1 plus mapping on your device to keep you connected always. With this Satellite Communicator, you can travel up to 150 hours, whereas it claims up to 165 hours. If you switch to expedition mode or GPS-only mode, you can easily get up to 400 hours without worrying about the battery drain concern. While using this communicator device, we have found accuracy, battery, and two-way messaging are the key factors to win a place in the best satellite messengers for 2024 with reliability and ease of use similar to previous Garmin GPSMAP models.
Conclusion
What are the best satellite messengers for 2024?
The choice has never been difficult for the first position. As we delve into 2024, the quest for the best satellite messengers intensifies, with a plethora of options offering various features to fulfill the diverse demands of outdoor enthusiasts. Garmin inReach continues to shine with its robust two-way messaging, detailed mapping, and reliable SOS capabilities, making it a top choice for adventurers worldwide.
SPOT X, with its compact design and affordable price point, brings simplicity and peace of mind with its SOS functionality and messaging features in the handheld. Meanwhile, the Iridium GO! satellite messenger stands out for its versatility. It transforms your smartphone into a satellite communication hub (connects up to 5 devices), ideal for globetrotters and remote workers.
Whether you prioritize ruggedness, affordability, or versatility, these top contenders for the best satellite messengers of 2024 ensure that you stay connected and safe, no matter where your adventures take you.
FAQs
1. What is a satellite messenger?
A ‘satellite messenger’ is defined as a communication and navigation device for explorers, hikers, trekkers, seafarers, and remote workers; a device that works without any cellular network as emergency responders to send and receive messages, navigate, and broadcast their own location to call help when needed.
2. Do I need a satellite communicator for hiking?
Yes, it is a good idea to carry a satellite phone or satellite messenger while going on adventure trips like hiking. It is good to be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances and avoid getting lost in remote, no-network regions.
3. What is the difference between satellite messenger and PLB?
The primary difference between a satellite messenger and a PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) is that a satellite messenger can send and receive text messages, whereas a PLB has only one rescue function. Satellite messengers use a network of commercial satellites, while PLB relies on governmental satellites.
4. Do satellite phones work in the mountains?
Yes, satellite phones work in the mountains; in an emergency, mountaineers can use them to call for help and also share their location.
5. How quickly does a satellite messenger send a message?
Actually, it depends on your GPS location and connectivity. In ideal conditions, it takes 30 seconds to a minute to send a message. Sometimes, it may take up to 5 minutes, depending on your surroundings and device.