Garmin inReach Mini
This product is not available. Good news: we have a newer version.
The palm-size Garmin inReach Mini satellite communicator provides off-the-grid contact even when size and weight matter. At only 3.5 oz, it has 2-way messaging, tracking and SOS capabilities.
Shop newer versionKey Details
- Exchange text messages while beyond cellular range with any cell phone, email address or inReach device (satellite subscription is required)
- Iridium satellite network ensures 100% pole-to-pole coverage with no gaps or fringe areas
- Built-in, high-sensitivity GPS provides basic navigation, location and tracking data within 5 meters; follow routes and drop waypoints
- Track and share your journey online, so your family and friends can follow along with your adventures
- In case of an emergency in the backcountry, trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center (satellite subscription required)
- Pair with mobile devices using the free Earthmate® app for easier messaging and access to topographic maps and U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more
- Cell service is not required to navigate on your phone using the paired app; maps are downloaded to your device for access anywhere, anytime
- Optional inReach weather forecast service provides detailed updates directly to your inReach Mini or paired device; basic and premium weather packages available
- Send and receive inReach messages through compatible Garmin devices, including connected wearables and handhelds (additional devices sold separately)
- Compatible devices include Fenix 5/5S/5X watches, Fenix Chronos, Tactix Charlie, Quatix 5 and Forerunner 935 (all sold separately)
- Internal, rechargeable lithium battery provides up to 50 hrs. of battery life in 10 min. tracking mode
- Rugged, impact resistant and water-rated to IPX7—easily withstands rain, snow, splashes and incidental exposure to water of up to 1 meter for up to 30 min.
- Includes USB cable, carabiner clip and spine-mount adapter
- GearJunkie "Gear of the Year" 2018
Imported.
A subscription plan is required to send and receive satellite messages on this device. Visit vendor website to shop satellite subscription plans and additional services.
| Best Use | Emergency Preparedness Backpacking |
|---|---|
| GPS/Satellite Detectable | Yes |
| Average Battery Life | 50 hrs. (10 min. tracking intervals) |
| Battery Type | Lithium Ion |
| Batteries | Rechargeable internal lithium ion |
| Messaging Capability | 2-Way Messaging |
| SOS Function | Yes |
| Device Integration | Watch Integration Smartphone Integration |
| Location Accuracy | 3 meters |
| Number of Waypoints | 500 |
| Weather Forecast | Yes |
| Compass | Yes |
| Altimeter | No |
| Display Size | 0.9 x 0.9 inches |
| Certification | Approved by FCC |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Water-Resistance Rating | IPX7 |
| Dimensions | 3.9 x 2 x 1 inches |
| Weight | 3.5 ounces |
Review this Product
Adding a review will require a valid email for verification
Most Helpful Favorable Review
Most Helpful Critical Review
Customer Images
Must have for off trail adventures
I have owned this device for over 3 months now and it’s performed excellent. Over 120 miles on this hiking through slot canyons in Zion Utah And never once has a message failed to send. Sometimes it takes a few minutes to deliver the message but the point is it works. I did a 18 mile solo hike and checked in with my GF every night and got her replies back within minutes. Some mention the battery life is poor and after playing with the default settings I still got around 30hrs on this device on a full charge. I carry a black diamond Apollo lantern and was able to fully recharge the device in roughly 7 hrs. I would prefer the buttons to be glow in the dark or come with a backlight because using this device at night can get tricky.
Peace of mind for solo hiking
I bought this because I hike alone a lot in rural Appalachia. Getting a clear enough sky to send sometimes is an issue but I’ve always been able to get a message out eventually. I use the preset messages to check in with family so they know I’m safe and don’t raise a false alarm. I have the middle subscription plan, which isn’t that much for how much hiking I do and the peace of mind it gives me and others. There are some areas it could improve on, but overall I do recommend. If my battery ever gets below a certain point during a day hike I stop tracking, and for multi-day hikes I can connect it to a backup charger and that works fine.
My best backpacking purchase
Used this earlier in the year while hiking in the Wind River Range. Was able to communicate with my son who was on another trail at the same time (be sure to walk thru the inReach to inReach instructions) and with folks at home. Pairs with the bluetooth on my phone so I can access my contacts list and type the message on my Iphone. Friends at home could click on my message and get a fix on a topo map of where I was sending the message. Same for my son which was quite helpful in following his progress on a map when he would send me a note. Great piece of mind while in the backcountry. One month subscriptions are helpful as well.
Garmin Mini Is Amazing
I purchased the Garmin Mini about 10 weeks prior to my trip to Climb Kilimanjaro as I wanted my Family and Friends to be able to follow me with Garmin's Earthmate link. I did practice using it a lot prior to leaving and ease of use once you get the hang of it is awesome. I intend to keep using it for many more adventures. I did choose the Freedom Plan as it let me turn on and turn off the Subscription Service very easily.
A Perfect Lightweight Solution
The Garmin inReach Mini does just what it promises. It allows me to be able to contact my family and let them know I'm fine, and to communicate any changes in my plans. The setup takes a bit of time but is well worth it. It worked perfectly during my initial outing the the Olympic National Park. Even when in the forest, it was able to find the sattelite and send a text and/or email. I found a great online review which analyzed all the optional subscription options. I was able to make an informed choice. I tested it in town first. Everything has worked fine. And it is considerably smaller and lighter than any other option.
$350 paperweight when most needed
This device is so close to ideal in terms of functionality, size and weight. But if it fails to perform the one, essential function I expect of it -- to deliver and receive messages -- then it is useless, actually worse than useless. And that's what happened to me: on a 5-day trip I sent a dozen messages, none of which were delivered. Imagine for a moment how your family would react to that silence. Go to the Garmin inReach forum where you can see mine and others' stories of similar problems. Further, Garmin support was unwilling to investigate why. Also, in actual practice, the battery life is not even half of what is claimed.
Safety plan can cost more than others
The device itself is pretty awesome and perhaps one of the best things about it are the freedom plans which can save you money over other communicators. This is all nullified in a hurry, however, if you fail to realize that the safety plan does not include tracking. You can turn it on, it works and you get charged $0.10 per track point which will number in the 100's to 1,000's on any trip lasting a day or more. When you turn it on, there's no warning and when you check billing at your web portal there's no indication anything is amiss. Be sure you can afford the recreation plan before buying or can do without tracking.
A MUST HAVE ITEM! Communication is critical.
I’m loving my new Garmin inReach® Mini! This satellite communicator is a must have addition to your outdoor gear! So many applications for this tool - Camping, Hiking, Kayaking, Boating, Snowboarding/Skiing, Hunting, ATV Riding, Traveling and more! Communication is a must! Very easy intuitive setup and functionality. Highly recommend! Garmin makes incredible gear! Keep it up!
The Freedom plan is Terrible
Please do not get the Garmin in reach mini. The device is small and light, but everything about it screams cheap. Additionally, the UI is straight out of the early 2000s. It is a mediocre device at best. The freedom plan is the worse plan I have ever encountered. First, you have to pay a yearly fee to be free. Secondly, they automatically charge you every month. If you suspend the plan service stops immediately. Even if you already paid for the entire month. Lastly, you cannot remove your credit card off garmin’s website. Trust me you would rather be stuck on an icy mountain surrounded by bears than to deal with Garmin’s sketchy plan.
A no brainer for out there endeavors.
This is an absolute gem of a device for off the grid communication and tracking. The size of this thing makes it a no brainer for mtn biking, trail running, backpacking, and whatever else. Have been testing this on long gravel rides and ultra trail runs far from cellular connections in WV and I can't say enough good about this thing. Given this thing can save your life in an emergency, there is no reason not to carry it when you know you won't have cellular connections, which is where I go most of the time. The preset messages are key and are incredibly useful and can be customized. Excellent job Garmin.