Customer reviews from Garmin
Garmin - inReach Messenger 1.08" GPS with Built-In Bluetooth - Black
Average customer rating
4.3
(238 Reviews)
Rating breakdown 238 reviews
5 Stars
149
4 Stars
47
3 Stars
19
2 Stars
14
1 Star
9
Customer Reviews for Garmin - inReach Messenger 1.08" GPS with Built-In Bluetooth - Black
Customer Rating
5
Perfect on a Budget
on September 3, 2025
Posted by: Harrison S
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.
Written by a customer while visiting ExpertVoice.com
Customer Rating
5
Excellent easy to use
on September 6, 2025
Posted by: bobj823
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!
Written by a customer while visiting Garmin
Customer Rating
5
Great way to Keep in Touch
on September 16, 2025
Posted by: Jordan W
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.
Written by a customer while visiting ExpertVoice.com
Customer Rating
5
Solid and Reliable
on September 23, 2025
Posted by: Tyler N
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.
I also appreciated how discreet the design is visually, definite selling point for me.
Written by a customer while visiting ExpertVoice.com
Customer Rating
1
Hard a super difficult time getting to work
on September 24, 2025
Posted by: Joe l
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.
Response from GarminBy Care, September 24, 2025
I'm very sorry to hear about your experience! Garmin inReach devices require a clear view of the sky to transmit messages and track points over the Iridium satellite network. Without a clear view of the sky, the device will continuously attempt to send the information until it acquires satellite signals. This FAQ provides additional information, as well as tips for avoiding message delays: http://ms.spr.ly/6426sSRI0
Written by a customer while visiting Garmin
Customer Rating
5
on September 30, 2025
Posted by: Jason L
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.
Written by a customer while visiting ExpertVoice.com
Customer Rating
5
Exactly what I needed
on October 2, 2025
Posted by: Sharpj138
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.
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.
Written by a customer while visiting Garmin
Customer Rating
4
Mostly good
on October 4, 2025
Posted by: Carson T
a little tedious to use without a phone but otherwise it works great and has good connectivity
Written by a customer while visiting ExpertVoice.com