Why We Like The Garmin inReach Messenger
We venture far beyond the reaches of cell service with Garmin's inReach Messenger offering us seamless connection with family and friends to give them peace of mind while we're out clearing our own. We preset messages and check-in times, so we can spend more time exploring and less time staring at a screen. This little device does more than text, it gives us weather updates and TracBack routing to keep us prepared and on course.
Details
- Compact satellite communicator to stay in touch when out of range
- Durable housing is impact resistant and submersible up to 1 meter
- Preset messages and send confirmations for quick, reliable check-ins
- Long battery life gives up to 46 days of use between charges
- TracBack feature to retrace your steps if you get turned around
- Interactive SOS to quickly get in-touch with emergency center
- Includes inReach Messenger, Type A to Type C USB cable, and documentation
- Please see size chart for complete list of technical features
- Item #GRMF065
- Digital Compass
- yes, GPS compass while moving
- Technical Features
- see size chart
- Operating System
- Garmin Messenger app, Bluetooth, ANT+
- Battery Type
- rechargeable lithium ion
- Battery Life
- [message/location sent every 30min] (full sky view) 46 days, (moderate tree cover) 23 days, [message/location sent every 10min] (full sky view) 28 days, (moderate tree cover) 14 days, [message/location sent every 2min] (full sky view) 6 days, (moderate tree cover) 3 days, [powered off] 1 year
- Dimensions
- 3.1 x 2.5 x 0.9in
- Claimed Weight
- 4oz
- Manufacturer Warranty
- 1 year
- Activity
- backpacking, backcountry skiing, backcountry snowboarding, backcountry snowshoeing, backcountry riding, cross country, nordic touring, mountaineering, climbing
- Submersible
- IPX7 (submersible up to 1m for 30min)
- Face Size
- 1 x 0.43in, 1.08in diagonal
Reviews
Q&A
What do you think about this product?
Overall Rating
4.5 based on 234 ratings
Review Summary
Customer Images
Here's what customers have to say
The product offers excellent features and performance, providing a sense of security and reliable communication in remote areas with no cell service. It is easy to set up and use, with impressive battery life and satellite connectivity. However, some customers have experienced occasional issues with message transmission and the setup process. Overall, the product is a valuable tool for outdoor enthusiasts and those who need reliable communication in remote locations.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews.
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Selecting an option will reload the available reviews on the pageOctober 4, 2025
Through 360 miles of Unbound XL this allowed my family to track every mile
Originally reviewed on ExpertVoice.com
October 4, 2025
Mostly good
a little tedious to use without a phone but otherwise it works great and has good connectivity
Originally reviewed on ExpertVoice.com
October 2, 2025
Exactly what I needed
Using On-X for years and love it, but wanted the inreach option too. The Inreach Messenger was the perfect fit. I was able to stay in touch with everyone wether they had a Garmin with inreach or just a cellphone with the messenger app.
Originally reviewed on Garmin
September 30, 2025
I purchased this for an off road trip to be able to keep in touch with family. Battery life was excellent, it only dropped 10% after 4 days of intermittent use. Size and weight wasn't a concern for this trip but I don't have any concerns in taking it on the next backpacking trip. It will be a minimal weight penalty for some peace of mind.
Originally reviewed on ExpertVoice.com
September 24, 2025
Hard a super difficult time getting to work
Very disappointing. Paid for the subscription and unlimited messaging as our family is dealing with major medical at this time. Was hoping to be able to communicate regularly. Unfortunately most of the time was told it needed a clear view of sky. We were 9500 feet up and had clear view. Took several minutes for messages to send and seemed to only receive messages once it was turned off and then back on. Was impossible to actually have any sort of back and forth dialog. Super dissatisfied.
Originally reviewed on Garmin
September 23, 2025
Solid and Reliable
Worked flawlessly in the field, connects reliably to my phone, and has excellent battery life. Took it on a week long trek and used it most nights to message my family on the other side of the planet, and the experience was smooth. I also appreciated how discreet the design is visually, definite selling point for me.
Originally reviewed on ExpertVoice.com
September 16, 2025
Great way to Keep in Touch
I got this for some backcountry hunting trips. It is really nice to put my Fiancée's mind at ease when I'm trekking deep into bear country most of the time in the dark. Super easy to use and the added benefit of purchasing SAR Insurance at a reasonable rate make this a no brainer. Definitely worth the extra few ounces.
Originally reviewed on ExpertVoice.com
September 6, 2025
Excellent easy to use
Excellent with easy to use features. Acquires GPS satellites quickly! I always have communication with a message satellite, even in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico! At this price, can't be beat. It works!
Originally reviewed on Garmin
September 3, 2025
Perfect on a Budget
I have used a Garmin 66i on many occasions in the backcountry. While the inReach messenger doesn't have all the same capabilities as that unit it gets the job done. If you are on a budget but need an inreach this is the tool for your toolbox. The antenna is impressively strong and I haven't had any connectivity issues with my phone. The garmin apps are well made making this a great product. Lightweight and fits nicely in a binoharness if you carry one of those around.
Originally reviewed on ExpertVoice.com
September 2, 2025
Good but could use some features
Was great from a safety, messenger and tracking perspective. Would be great to be able to load GPX to show the pathing. Similar to the Garmin forerunner 945 I use and my support crew can track.
Originally reviewed on Garmin
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