Garmin inReach devices

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scottjpalmer

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#281418 16-Feb-2021 17:35

Is anyone using a Garmin inReach device?

From what I can tell the only functionality difference from the Mini to the SE+ is user interface and battery life. The Explorer+ adds maps but how good are the NZ maps? Some screenshots would be great.

Likewise the Earthmate app, how good are the NZ maps?

Thanks.

Nate001

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#2657776 16-Feb-2021 19:57

I've been using father's inReach SE this summer, its the original version probably 5 years old with no map display on it. We only use the lowest plan and mainly use it for sending unlimited preset messages to let people know we've arrived at our destination for the day. Beauty is we just activate it for a 1-2 months when required.

Its much more usable when paired with the earthmate app on phone. Proper keyboard for sending/reading messages. The app uses openstreet maps so nothing special, when using on the phone it seems to use the phones GPS. Edit - I think you can download the app and use without an inReach so you can play with it.

For actual navigating on a map I use a topo map on my iPhone which uses LINZ maps, shows a lot more detail.

scottjpalmer

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#2658110 17-Feb-2021 10:48

Nate001:
I've been using father's inReach SE this summer, its the original version probably 5 years old with no map display on it. We only use the lowest plan and mainly use it for sending unlimited preset messages to let people know we've arrived at our destination for the day. Beauty is we just activate it for a 1-2 months when required.

Its much more usable when paired with the earthmate app on phone. Proper keyboard for sending/reading messages. The app uses openstreet maps so nothing special, when using on the phone it seems to use the phones GPS. Edit - I think you can download the app and use without an inReach so you can play with it.

For actual navigating on a map I use a topo map on my iPhone which uses LINZ maps, shows a lot more detail.

Thanks, this one https://www.amazon.com/DeLorme-inReach-SE-Satellite-Tracker/dp/B00BX7TJ2O?

I got the Earthmate app but I need a login to use it and to get a login I need a device to register :-)

If it's just Openstreet maps then that won't be so great for out in the wilderness, separate topo on phone obviously the way to go. This pushes me back towards the inReach Mini rather than having mapping on the Garmin device.

Nate001

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#2658128 17-Feb-2021 11:35

Yes thats the unit we have. Was still the DeLorme brand before Garmin bought them out. That model does not have a map on board. Battery last about 3-4 days if you leave it on continuously, which is not bad given its age.

I guess it depends on what you intend to use it for. If its to keep in touch with people then I would just get the Mini and pair it with a phone. Otherwise the new SE+ seems to have more mapping capabilities on it, not sure what maps it uses but guessing some form of openstreet maps too.

Here are is a screenshot of EarthMate vs Topo Map on my phone. This is Mt Heale Hut on Great Barrier, the last trip I used it for.

scottjpalmer

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#2658165 17-Feb-2021 12:36

Thanks, OSM better than I thought actually. Just got to weigh up whether I want to rely on my phone for maps or have a standalone Garmin for basic navigation (adventure motorcycling predominantly).

Cheers

alasta

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#2658712 17-Feb-2021 20:41

Have you checked what maps Garmin has available that would potentially work on this device?

I have a Fenix 5 Plus that I use for trail running and the topographical maps on it appear to be quite good, but it's hard to tell exactly how detailed they are due having to view them on a small watch display.

scottjpalmer

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#2659130 18-Feb-2021 18:19

alasta:
Have you checked what maps Garmin has available that would potentially work on this device?

I have a Fenix 5 Plus that I use for trail running and the topographical maps on it appear to be quite good, but it's hard to tell exactly how detailed they are due having to view them on a small watch display.

Not yet, thanks.