DeLorme InReach Satellite Messenger Review

Set-up
Like the Spot 2 Satellite Messenger, the InReach operates on a commercial satellite network and requires a subscription to function. Setting it up was not significantly different from the Spot 2, but the DeLorme website is generally easier to navigate and the user account space is more intuitive. Contrary to the Spot Connect Satellite Messenger, the InReach paired with my phone immediately the first time, and automatically every time after that.

As Standalone
Even without the smartphone pairing, the InReach can still send three different custom pre-defined messages to your contacts. Instead of just sending an “OK” message, you could choose between messages which broadcast your need for a ride, the message that you’re about to launch/depart/drop-in/whatever, or send a “meet me here” to your contacts. Basically, if you like the “OK message” feature of the Spot 2, then you’ll love being able to send three different messages with the InReach. Choosing is simple: just hold the message button down until the light flashes 1, 2, or 3 times.
Both the DeLorme and the Spot 2 allow tracking and shared maps (the DeLorme allows you to adjust the tracking interval via the Eartmate app but the shortest interval possible is only 10 minutes). It’s a small thing, but the DeLorme shared-map url is cool and personalized - check it out


Also, the DeLorme page allows you to view waypoints across a custom date range, whereas the SPOT system only allows you to choose up to the last 30 days.

As a Paired Device
This is where the DeLorme really leaves the SPOT 2 in the dust. The features are many, but the two standouts are the ability to send and receive(!) custom messages via your phone to any contacts you choose, and being able to view your location on downloadable DeLorme maps. The free Earthmate app is simple and intuitive to use – each time I opened the app in a new location it prompted me to download the maps for that area, and it’s also simple to download maps in advance for the region you plan to travel in (much smarter, since downloading 200mb of maps once you’re already “there” is easier said than done). The map function shows your location, and also the most basic functions of a GPS: heading, elevation, speed, and coordinates.

Messaging
The InReach’s successful message-send rate was 85 percent (instead of 70 percent in the case of the SPOT 2), which provided a small reassurance that if I did need the SOS function, it was more likely to work than the SPOT 2. In addition to that, not only could I watch the message successfully depart via my smartphone, I could also receive messages in reply.


Satellite Network
The InReach operates on the Iridium network. which is global, whereas Globalstar (which supports SPOT), is not. I was not able to find reliable reports on the coverage of Iridium vs Globalstar for the areas in which they overlap, but satellite phone retailers and reviewers almost unanimously favor Iridium.

The InReach is not cheap to operate. To buy the unit and use it with the average subscription plan over the next three years will run between $950 and $1200. Obviously, the cost of this service is nothing compared to the value of having it possibly save your life, but the ACR ResQLink performs the basic SOS function better at a three-year cost of $360 (taking into consideration the five-year $150 battery life). Therefore, the InReach is best indicated for those who want messaging and are happy to pay for it.