We own both a Garmin InReach satellite messenger and an ACR 406 Mhz EPIRB emergency beacon and usually carry them with us when we go hiking and back-country exploring. Each has it’s own place in our outdoor pursuits, and while both use orbiting satellites – and can summon help in an emergency – they’re very different from each other. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of satellite messengers vs. EPIRB’s to see which one might be best for you.
Satellite Messengers Offer Two -Way Communications
Satellite messengers, such as the Garmin InReach and Spot X Messenger are able to send two-way text messages from most places on earth. The Spot X device uses the Globalstar satellite network, which offers near global coverage, with some dead spots near the poles and in the Pacific ocean. Garmin InReach devices utilize the Iridium satellite network, which also offers near global coverage, with some reduced coverage in polar regions. They are both messenger devices and rely on private call centers to relay your distress call to authorities.
Negative Aspects Of Satellite Messengers
- Have a monthly fee and will not work without an active subscription.
- Use higher frequency radio signals than 406 MHz EPIRB’s (1626 MHz) – which may be blocked by cloud cover, forest, etc.
- Transmitter is less powerful than a 406 EPIRB.
- Are designed for communications first, with SOS message capability being secondary.
- Are monitored by private entities and not by any international alliance of rescue organizations such as COSPAS-SARSAT
Positive Aspects of Satellite Messengers
- You’re able to communicate with the outside world other than just sending a “mayday” call.
- Most can sync with phone apps, for easier messaging and GPS navigation..
- You have the ability to cancel an SOS call, although you may be liable for cost if a search has already begun.
- Most offer a tracking feature – allowing your loved ones to track your progress using online maps.
EPIRB’s Offer Reliable, Emergency SOS Capability
EPIRB stands for Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon. Most of these use the 406 MHz radio frequency to send a one-way message to orbiting satellites operated by COSPAS-SARSAT – a consortium of international rescue services. They’re required aboard all ocean-going vessels and aircraft, and designed to military grade specifications to withstand the elements. Within the class of 406 MHz EPIRB’s, there are models made specifically for marine use, and offer flotation capabilities, as well as small handheld models made for non-commercial outdoor use, such as the ACR AquaFix.
Downsides Of 406 EPIRB’s
- Are one-way only. There’s no confirmation your SOS message has been received.
- Can’t send any other message than “SOS” or “Mayday”.
- You can’t cancel a distress call made in error.
- You must keep your information updated with SARSAT-NOAA, or other authority in your home country.
The Plus Side of 406 EPIRB’s
- They don’t require a monthly fee.
- Use a more powerful 406 Mhz signal – which may penetrate cloud cover and forest canopy better than satellite messengers.
- Most also transmit on the international SAR homing frequency – 121.5 MHz – which helps rescue teams on the ground locate you.
- Are globally recognized as a means of calling for help in life or death situations.
- Typically feature more rugged construction and waterproofing than satellite messengers.
Our Take On EPIRB’s vs. Satellite Messengers
Because they transmit a more powerful signal (often on two separate frequencies) – your SOS call may stand a better chance of being heard in heavily treed areas or under thick cloud cover. Also, because they’re internationally recognized as a means of making a distress call, a 406 EPIRB should be your first choice to carry, if you really want to be found in a life or death situation. (This is especially true for guides leading groups into the back-country).
A satellite messenger, on the other hand, such as the Garmin InReach or Spot X, can be worth its weight in gold in the outdoors, when you need to stay in touch in areas with no cell phone reception. As a means of calling for help – they’re just not as effective in all situations.
Why Not Carry Both?
If you can afford the cost of both a 406 EPIRB and a satellite messenger, it’s a good idea to carry both if you’re planning a remote hiking trip. The Garmin InReach Explorer weighs 7.5 ounces, and the ACR Aquafix is just slightly heavier, at 12.5 ounces. The new Garmin InReach Mini weighs only 3.6 ounces, so cost – not weight is probably going to be the deciding factor for most hikers when it comes down to carrying both.
Update: We recently added an Iridium satellite phone to our overland communications suite. See our article Three Alternatives For Overland Satellite Phones
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