Garmin Inreach Mini 2

Communication, tracking and SOS

The Garmin InReach Mini 2 can send and receive SMS (and/or email) most easily via an app on your smart phone. It is possible to type directly into the device but the small size of the device makes it more challenging than the app. The text messages work in the same way as regular SMS, except that they are sent and received via satellite.

You can easily share your ride and location through the MapShare portal so family and friends can follow your adventure in real time on their phones or computers. You can also make posts with your location included on your website, blog or social media.

In case of an accident or illness, you can send a distress signal by pressing a protected SOS button on the side of the device. The interactive distress signal goes to Garmin Response (formerly GEOS EIRCC), a global rescue service that coordinates rescue operations around the clock and around the world. During the rescue, you can also communicate continuously with the rescue center using two-way communication.

Another great feature worth mentioning is that you can order up-to-date weather forecasts for your current or future location.

Mini 2 uses the Iridium satellite network for communication, which consists of 66 low-flying satellites and is one of the few systems to offer total global coverage. As with all satellite communications, a clear view of the sky is required for transmission and reception. You can clearly see on the device when it is online.

Navigation

Paired with the Garmin Explore app on your smartphone, the Mini 2 doubles as a satellite navigator. You can pre-download detailed topographic maps or satellite images to suit your need.

With the app, the device works like a regular GPS. It displays the coordinates of your position on a map and you can insert routes and waypoints via the app or web before your trip. In navigation mode, the device shows your current position in relation to waypoints or your route, which can also be saved continuously.

Hardware

The Mini 2 is very small and compact, measuring 5.17 x 9.90 x 2.61cm. The device weighs only 100 grams. It is robustly built to IPX7, which means it can withstand being in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. A sturdy carabiner attachment allows you to hang the device on the back of your backpack or even on top of your tent when you're in your cozy sleeping bag and want to say good night to the family.

The device has an impressive battery life. It is equipped with a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery, for which Garmin states a battery life of 14 days at 10 minutes of tracking mode in good transmitting conditions. I have used the device on a 10-day tour in the Swedish mountains and can attest that it is true. Charging is done via USB-C via computer, wall plug or power bank.

Please note that a subscription is required for the Mini 2 to work. There are several different plans available, even for those who only want to use their device for parts of the year. Read more about the different options on the Garmin website.

Summary

As the Garmin inReach Mini 2 is primarily a satellite communicator, it is only suitable for those adventuring in areas where there is no cellular coverage.

If you solve the navigation part other than via Mini 2, Garmin's Messenger app is a better choice for two-way communication.

The Mini 2 is easy to use, light, compact, well-built and reliable with a long battery life. It's arguably more secure than a satellite phone because a satellite phone requires a connection exactly where and when you want to call, which is not always the case. Instead, the Mini 2 works in the background, sending and receiving messages all the time.

Magnus Brink

2023-11-27

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