Garmin inReach Mini 2 vs Mini 3: Should You Upgrade?
Share
Garmin’s inReach Mini range has earned its reputation as the go-to satellite communicator for walkers, runners, cyclists and adventurers who want reliable SOS and messaging in a tiny package.
With the release of the inReach Mini 3 (and Mini 3 Plus), a common question crops up: is it worth upgrading from the Mini 2? Or is the Garmin Mini 2 still the sensible buy?
Short answer: for most people, the Mini 2 remains excellent value. But there are a few specific scenarios where the Mini 3 – particularly the Plus – does make sense.
Let’s break it down properly.
Core inReach Features: No Change Where It Matters
At the heart of all three devices – Mini 1, Mini 2 and Mini 3 – the core inReach functionality is identical:
- SOS emergency alerting
- Two-way satellite messaging
- Live tracking and location sharing
- Works independently of mobile signal
If you’re buying an inReach primarily for safety, nothing about the Mini 3 fundamentally changes what the device can do in an emergency. That’s an important point, and one Garmin doesn’t shout about.
What’s New on the inReach Mini 3?
Garmin has made several updates with the Mini 3, but they fall firmly into the category of refinements rather than revolutions.
1. Touchscreen & Colour Display
Typing messages is easier, especially compared to button-based navigation on the Mini 2. It’s more pleasant to use, but it doesn’t change the outcome – messages still send the same way.
2. Siren Function
A loud audible siren can be activated in an emergency. Useful in theory, but very situational. It’s a nice addition rather than a must-have.
3. Simple On-Device Maps
These are extremely basic. They’re useful for orientation and tracking, but not a replacement for a proper GPS handheld or a phone app. Think “backup only”.
4. Voice Commands
Convenient, but again, not transformative.
Verdict: All welcome improvements, but none of them alone justify upgrading from a Mini 2.
Battery Life: Slight Edge to the Mini 3
The Mini 3 does offer a slightly larger battery and marginally better battery life.
That said, the Mini 2 already performs very well in real-world use:
- Long day hikes
- Multi-day backpacking trips
- Consistent tracking and messaging
Battery degradation over time is normal, and for many users, replacing the Mini 2 battery is a far cheaper and more logical solution than upgrading the entire device.
Opinion: Battery life alone is not a strong reason to upgrade.
GNSS & Multiband: Where the Mini 3 Is Technically Better
This is one area where the Mini 3 genuinely improves on paper.
- Mini 2: Multi-GNSS
- Mini 3: Multi-GNSS + Multiband
In practical terms, multiband GNSS can:
- Achieve GPS fixes slightly faster
- Perform better in challenging environments (deep valleys, heavy terrain)
However, the real-world difference is marginal, not dramatic. Location fixes are quicker, but not “game-changing”.
Where it might matter:
- If you regularly operate in very difficult terrain
- If you want the fastest possible location fix during an SOS
For most UK users, the Mini 2 already performs perfectly well.
Mini 3 vs Mini 3 Plus: This Is the Bigger Decision
This is where things get more interesting.
Mini 3 (Standard)
- Uses the same short-burst data system as the Mini 2
- Text-based messaging only
- No photos or voice notes
Mini 3 Plus
- Uses Iridium Certus
- Higher transmit power
- Can send photos and voice messages
- Voice notes are transcribed for recipients
In practice, the higher transmit power can help messages push through heavy tree cover, though nothing is ever guaranteed with satellite comms.
The real value of the Plus is emergency communication:
- Sending a photo of an injury
- Speaking a voice note instead of typing when stressed, injured or cold
Is it essential? No.
Is it genuinely useful in a serious incident? Yes.
Should You Upgrade? Honest Recommendations
Upgrade to Mini 3 or 3 Plus if:
- You need every bit of extra battery life
- You regularly travel in challenging terrain
- You want voice notes and photo messaging for emergencies
- Cost isn’t a major concern and you want the latest model
Stick with (or buy) Mini 2 if:
- Your main goal is SOS, messaging and tracking
- You want excellent value for money
- You already trust your Mini 2
- You’d rather replace the battery than the whole device
What About the Mini 1?
Surprisingly, the Mini 1 still offers the same core inReach safety features. If the battery is healthy (or replaced), it remains perfectly usable for emergency backup.
Our Verdict
The inReach Mini 2 remains the sweet spot for most people.
It’s reliable, proven, compact, and does everything an inReach needs to do.
The Mini 3 and Mini 3 Plus are better devices, but the improvements are mostly about convenience, not capability. If you know exactly why you want those extras, go for it. If not, you’ll be very well served by a Mini 2 – and your wallet will thank you.
If you’d like help choosing the right inReach for how you actually use it, that’s exactly what we’re here for at Outdoor GPS Shop.
1. Garmin inReach mini 2 - more here
2. Garmin inReach mini 3 - more here
3. Garmin inReach mini 3 plus - more here
