GPS

Garmin

Overview
Garmin is a world leader in GPS products and technology. In 2016 they acquired DeLorme, and added the popular inReach Satellite Communication and Navigation products to the Garmin family.

Garmin satellite communicators are extremely popular for use in sailplanes. They communicate through the IRIDIUM satellite network - so you are never out of reach. They are used to send GPS position and altitude tracking updates at regular intervals and display your position and altitude on tracking web sites - so your friends can follow your flight. Of course, the tracking could come in very handy in an emergency. Likewise the ability to send and receive emails and text messages could be very important in an emergency. Several preset messages can be sent with a few button presses to send messages such as, "Still Flying", "Landed-out - Fine, but need a retrieve", "Done Flying - Home Safe". Emergency rescue services can also be called - if necessary.

inReach Comparison
Feature	inReach Mini	inReach SE+	inReach Explorer+	GPSMAP 66i

Two-way messaging
Global satellite service with Iridium
Two-way global interactive SOS
Tracking location sharing
Cloud storage and trip planning
Pair with mobile devices
Weather
Routes, waypoints and tracks
QWERTY keyboard (on-screen) for custom text entry
Breadcrumb trail
Built-in navigation sensors (Digital compass, barometric altimeter, and acceleromter)
Preloaded DeLorme TopoActive maps
Downloadable BlueChart Marine Maps
Downloadable BirdsEye Satellite Image Maps
Battery Life with 10 minute tracking	90 hours	100 hours	100 hours	35 hours
Display Size and Type	Monochrome 1.27" diag. (32.3 mm) 0.9"W x 0.9"H (23 x 23 mm) 128 x 128 pixels	Color 2.31" diag (5.9 cm) 1.4"W x 1.9"H (3.5 x 4.7 cm) 200 x 265 pixels	Color 2.31" diag (5.9 cm) 1.4"W x 1.9"H (3.5 x 4.7 cm) 200 x 265 pixels	Color 3" diag. (76 mm) 1.5"W x 2.5"H (38 x 63 mm) 240 x 400 pixels
Size of Unit	2.04” x 3.90” x 1.03” (5.17 x 9.90 x 2.61 cm)	2.7" x 6.5" x 1.5" (6.8 x 16.4 x 3.8 cm)	2.7" x 6.5" x 1.5" (6.8 x 16.4 x 3.8 cm)	2.5” x 6.4” x 1.4” (6.2 x 16.3 x 3.5 cm)
Weight	3.5 oz (100 g)	7.5 oz (213 g)	7.5 oz (213 g)	8.1 oz (230 g)
Price	$349.99	$399.99	$449.99	$599.99

Affordable, Flexible Satellite Airtime Plans

To access the Iridium network and communicate with your inReach Mini, inReach SE+ or Explorer+ device, an active satellite subscription is required. Depending on your usage level, you can opt for an annual contract package or flexible month-to-month airtime plan.

Video Explanation of Service Plans

Overview Videos: