Garmin inReach Messenger vs ZOLEO - Sending Messages Over Wifi Cellular or Iridium 🛰️

[@AvoidingChores]

You’re probably wondering where did the Garmin cell message 9:45 went? I took a LONG time to get received. Sending messages over wifi or cellular using inReach messenger has been glitchy to say the least.

[@camrodger8638]

Both these units are primarily messaging devices. The fact that the Zoleo allows a permanent number is a deal breaker. I have both a Zoleo and a Garmin Montana 700i, and I choose to activate the Zoleo because of the permanent phone number. If your cell phone carrier changed your number frequently, you would quickly choose a new carrier.

[@grayrabbit2211]

@16:46 has a comparison chart for those wanting the TL:DR

[@playhouseinthewoods6103]

I have a couple of questions. Can you provide answers or direct me for such? I’ve already discerned they’re not included in the typical questions/answer web pages. Thank you! Justin

[@AvoidingChores]

Just post your questions here and I’ll do my best.

[@playhouseinthewoods6103]

@@AvoidingChores thanks for responding - much appreciated! I’m trying to figure out about the point of Wi-Fi and cellular on an inteach other than when exact location is needing to be transmitted. It seems if one has Wi-Fi or cellular coverage, couldn’t you just use your phone and not the messenger? Maybe I’m missing something - appreciate your help in advance! Justin

[@AvoidingChores]

Hi Justin- basically the point is to use the messenger app to continue conversations without needing to switch apps. For some it might be useful. In my usage it was more to keep a few up to date or when I was back to the truck

[@grayrabbit2211]

@@playhouseinthewoods6103 Let me give you an example. I fly in private aircraft a lot. Cell service once you leave the ground is spotty, usually dropping off somewhere between 1000' to 2000' above the ground. In some areas you can get reasonable signal even at 6500'. Some have reported 15000'+ at times. With the way the Zoleo addresses this, I don't have to worry about which way the message goes. Whoever I'm conversing with is sending messages to my Zoleo number and I'm replying. How it gets there is Zoleo's problem, not ours.

[@josephgrn2818]

Apparently Garmin now consolidates cell, Wi-Fi, and satellite messaging! I think they want the market share that Zoleo was pulling away… plus now friends and family without a Garmin can join the Garmin messenger app. Group messaging is also supported!

[@chaosncheckt9356]

I appreciate this review. I'm planning a AT thru hike for 2023 and have a Garmin Montana 700i but it's large and heavy. I was considering the inReach messenger but had read there is a known issue with some outgoing messages being delayed. Plus you have to initiate the conversation and some text messages (outgoing) are garbled when received. I think the one advantage the Garmin offers is weather reporting. I don't see an option for that on the Zoleo website. After your review and others, I'm leaning towards leaving the 700i and getting a Zoleo for the hike.

[@AvoidingChores]

I can confirm that I got similar message routing issues & delays using garmin messenger. As for weather ZOLEO also provides it and acts as same with exception that it only provides the basic forecast like inreach