I would give this product a higher review but I can't get it to send any messages to my 1 primary contact that I would communicate with. Talked to support twice with no resolution to date. Otherwise it works well when I have tested messages to others as well as other features like weather. My tech skills are average & I could mostly figure everything out. However, you tube videos of others giving reviews & demonstrating how to use were very helpful. Would be nice if Garmin had in-depth instructional videos. The earthmate app on android is ok. I think it could be better. Had some issues with figuring out maps but seem to have figured it out. It will be a good item to have when I am out in backcountry. Hopefully I will figure out where the issue is with that one contact.
Response from GarminBy Chris , Garmin, June 20, 2019
We would be happy to help you with this issue, Please contact us at support@garmin.com or call us at 800-800-1020. We do have an extensive online resource that answers many common questions and offers link to several videos : https://support.garmin.com/en-US/?productID=592606&tab=topics
bought this for only one reason; the sos function. surely the other features this device offers are nice and i will use some of them. walking around my area the inreach mini shows movement, elevation, rate of travel speed and several other choices which might/could be useful. the small size and weight are very beneficial, especially with me carrying a 40 pound backpack load for a 10+ day trek.
it appears as well built, very rugged, very water resistant, compact and lightweight. not made for texting but it does come with several preset messages so no hindrance with communicating. the sos function is truly the lifesaver (pun intended) of this device. if for no other reason the price paid for the sos function is worth the cost of the mini.
Only wish the how to's were as easy to set up as the buttons on the mini were to use. there should be a video dedicated to the mini that shows how to set it up. i had to spend too much time searching everywhere, viewing many different videos, and trying to understand exactly what garmin's written tutorial meant with some of its instructions.
there should have been a very clear and very precise step by step instructional format and maybe there is, but it didn't present to me as clear and easy to use.
garmin tells you to sync the device but they don't tell you how to sync the device. when told to sync the device that word sync should be highlighted so you only need to click on sync and it takes you to the video that shows you how to sync. nope, garmin knows you are lost and they seem to want to keep you that way even though this device is to keep you from being lost. i don't remember how i found the video that shows how to sync the mini but i did.
anyway, now that i have the mini synced and operational i will give it some testing on the many hills/mountains in my living area. so far, what i have seen of its operational functions, i very much like. my 5 rating might not be warranted but until i can find a reason to not rate it a 5 i will continue to rate it a 5.
i give a 1 to the instructions but you only read the instructions when everything else fails, therefore, no cause for concern.
Our teens go fishing in the mountains at least once a week where there is no cell phone coverage. We feel better knowing they can always reach us or call out in case of emergency. It’s worth every penny!
Bought to use on solo motorcycle rides or to use the tracking feature on longer group rides. Family, friends can follow us from back home.
Seems to work well so far but my Pixel 2 phone and the Mini lose Bluetooth connections easily. Not sure which device is having the issues but hope I'll figure it out eventually. Then I'll update to 5 stars.
I have never lost satellite, it is so easy to communicate with family at home - easy to pair with my phone. AND, it shares my speed and distance. Plus it is tiny! Haven't found a thing I don't like about.
I haven't been able to use it yet, it has been so difficult to start
Response from GarminBy Chris, Garmin, June 10, 2019
Sorry you are having issues. This guide will walk you through it. If you are still having issue afterwards please call us at 800-800-1020 : https://www8.garmin.com/manuals/webhelp/inreachmini/EN-US/GUID-1C5B2158-1018-4103-AC9A-00F01AE5181D.html
I just bought my mini and used it on a bikepack trip. The comfort of being out in the wilderness and knowing I could text my contacts was a great relief. Small and compact