Garmin inReach 3 plus

[El-Dracho]

Has anyone already tried out the new inReach 3 plus and can share their thoughts?

I have an inReach 2 mini and am really happy with it. The new features of the 3 plus don't seem that impressive to me in comparison. Has anyone switched from 2 to 3 and can share their thoughts or experiences?

Thank you.

 

[El-Dracho]

Really, no one? I took a closer look at it. I don't really need something like a color display or touchscreen, but the new feature for sending voice messages could be helpful in emergency communications. However, I think I'll stick with my inReach Mini 2 for now, as it has proven itself during several trips and turned out as very reliable.

 

[socal66]

The 3 does seem to be a lot easier to use and message to/from without a phone than the prior versions.

That said a Starlink mini with the base $5 monthly fee is both cheaper for the unit and ongoing monthly costs than the Garmin while also being a lot more capable. My mobile provider T-Mobile also provides satellite text messaging on my iPhone as part of my phone plan. Options like these are certainly going to push the Garmin units into more of a niche role mainly for backcountry hikers and such that need more portability and battery life. I wonder how the Garmin messaging products will fare a couple of years from now when they will see even more competition as time goes on.

Honestly I’m pretty close to cancelling my Garmin subscription. My next overseas trip a few weeks from now will probably be the last time I use it.