Garmin inReach® Mini 3 Compact Satellite Communicator
Compact, rugged satellite communicator with 1.9″ color touchscreen, two-way messaging, interactive SOS, and up to 350 hours battery life. Global coverage via the Iridium® satellite network. Available in two models: Mini 3 ($449.99) and Mini 3 Plus with voice/photo messaging ($499.99). Active satellite subscription required.
Our Take: The inReach Mini 3 is the biggest upgrade the Mini line has ever received. The new 1.9″ color touchscreen completely transforms the experience — composing messages, reading replies, and navigating menus is genuinely pleasant now instead of the tedious button-scrolling of the Mini 2’s tiny monochrome screen. Multi-band GNSS gives you better position accuracy in challenging terrain, IP67 adds dust protection, and 350 hours of tracking battery keeps pace with multi-week expeditions. For the core use case — satellite SOS, two-way texting, and LiveTrack sharing — the base Mini 3 at $449.99 does everything the Mini 2 did, only with a dramatically better interface. The Mini 3 Plus at $499.99 is the one we’d recommend for most buyers. For just $50 more, you get voice messages, photo sharing, 1,600-character texts (vs. 160), and the faster Iridium IMT module that sends messages substantially quicker. During an SOS, being able to send a voice clip or photo to rescue coordinators could be genuinely meaningful. The only real trade-off vs. the Mini 2 is weight: 4.31 oz vs. 3.53 oz. If every fraction of an ounce matters for ultralight backpacking, the Mini 2 is still available at $399.99 and remains an excellent communicator. But for everyone else, the Mini 3 Plus is the new standard.
Why you’d choose the inReach® Mini 3
- A major upgrade from the Mini 2’s tiny 0.9″ monochrome screen. The 1.9″ diagonal (306 × 230 pixel) sunlight-readable color MIP display makes reading messages, composing texts, and navigating menus far faster and more intuitive. The on-device QWERTY keyboard lets you type custom messages directly. Physical side buttons remain fully functional for gloved or wet-hand operation — touch input can be disabled entirely in settings.
- Press and hold the dedicated SOS button to send an interactive emergency message with your GPS coordinates to Garmin Response, a 24/7-staffed international emergency coordination center. Unlike a one-way beacon, inReach SOS is two-way — you can communicate back and forth with rescue coordinators throughout the incident. The Iridium satellite network provides 100% global coverage, including polar regions, open ocean, and remote wilderness where no other communication exists.
- Send and receive text messages to any phone number, email address, or other inReach device — anywhere on Earth. Compose messages on the touchscreen keyboard or use preset/quick-text messages for common check-ins. Connect your smartphone via the Garmin Messenger app to type from your phone’s keyboard and seamlessly switch between Wi-Fi, cellular, and satellite as coverage changes. The base Mini 3 supports 160-character messages; the Mini 3 Plus supports up to 1,600 characters.
- The inReach Mini 3 supports GPS, Galileo, QZSS, and BeiDou satellite systems with multi-band frequency support for improved accuracy in challenging environments like dense forest canopy, deep canyons, and urban areas. Multi-band GNSS receives signals on two different frequencies from the same satellite, reducing errors caused by signal reflection and atmospheric interference. This is a significant upgrade over the Mini 2’s standard single-band GPS.
- The internal rechargeable lithium-ion battery delivers up to 350 hours (approximately 14.5 days) with 10-minute inReach tracking intervals. At 30-minute intervals, battery life extends even further for multi-week expeditions. USB-C charging means you can top off with the same cable used for most modern devices, phones, and battery packs. The Mini 3 Plus also supports a “performance messaging” mode with up to 90 hours of continuous faster messaging.
- With an active satellite subscription, LiveTrack lets friends and family follow your real-time location on a web-based map page. They can see your progress, distance, time, and elevation — no app installation required on their end. You don’t need to point the device at the sky; the Iridium network provides reception even in wooded, dense, and partially obstructed environments. Combine with check-in messages for easy peace-of-mind updates that don’t count against your monthly message allotment.
- Built to withstand thermal extremes, mechanical shock, and water exposure. The IP67 rating means the Mini 3 is completely dust-tight and can survive immersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. MIL-STD-810 certification covers thermal shock, vibration, and humidity testing. The chemically strengthened glass lens resists scratches from everyday trail and gear-bag abuse. This is an upgrade over the Mini 2’s IPX7 rating, which did not include dust protection.
- The Mini 3 Plus adds a built-in speaker and microphone for 30-second voice messages sent via satellite — no cell coverage needed. Voice messages can be transcribed to text on the color display. Photo sharing is available when paired with the Garmin Messenger app on your smartphone. During an SOS, voice and photo messages can be sent to Garmin Response coordinators, providing first-hand details of the emergency. The Plus uses the faster Iridium Certis IMT module for substantially quicker message transmission compared to the base model’s SBD protocol.
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Who the inReach Mini 3 is perfect for
- Backcountry hikers, backpackers, and thru-hikers who need reliable satellite SOS and messaging in a pocket-size, lightweight device.
- Scuba divers pairing an inReach with a Garmin Descent dive computer for satellite safety at remote dive sites (with optional dive case).
- Offshore boaters, kayakers, and sailors who need global emergency communication beyond VHF radio range.
- Overlanders, off-road riders, and remote travelers who venture beyond cellular coverage for days or weeks at a time.
- Hunters, anglers, and wilderness guides operating in areas with no cell service who need check-in, tracking, and SOS capability.
- International travelers and expedition teams who want 100% global satellite coverage via the Iridium network with two-way communication.
You may prefer a different Garmin if…
- You want the lightest, most affordable satellite communicator and don’t need a color touchscreen — the Garmin inReach Mini 2 ($399.99, 3.53 oz) is still an excellent communicator with the same Iridium SOS and messaging at a lower price and lighter weight.
- You want a full-featured handheld GPS navigator with built-in satellite communication, detailed topographic maps, and a large 3″ screen — the Garmin GPSMAP 67i combines a powerful GPS with inReach technology in a single device.
- You primarily use your smartphone for messaging and want the smallest possible satellite hardware — the Garmin inReach Messenger is designed as a phone-paired satellite relay with an even smaller form factor and longer battery life.
All Variants
| Model | MPN | UPC | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| inReach Mini 3 | 010-03387-00 | 753759361396 | $449.99 |
| inReach Mini 3 Plus | 010-03387-10 | 753759361402 | $499.99 |
| inReach Mini 2 (Flame Red) | 010-02602-00 | 753759281236 | $399.99 |
| inReach Mini 2 (Black) | 010-02602-01 | 753759281243 | $399.99 |
| inReach Mini 2 Marine Bundle | 010-02602-30 | 753759304317 | $449.99 |
Specifications
| Specification | inReach Mini 3 | inReach Mini 3 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| MPN | 010-03387-00 | 010-03387-10 |
| MSRP | $449.99 | $499.99 |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 2.16″ × 3.85″ × 1.05″ (5.50 × 9.80 × 2.67 cm) | 2.16″ × 3.85″ × 1.05″ (5.50 × 9.80 × 2.67 cm) |
| Weight | 4.31 oz (122.2 g) | 4.42 oz (125.2 g) |
| Display | 1.9″ diagonal color MIP touchscreen, 306 × 230 px | 1.9″ diagonal color MIP touchscreen, 306 × 230 px |
| Lens | Chemically strengthened glass | Chemically strengthened glass |
| Water Rating | IP67 | IP67 |
| MIL-STD-810 | Yes (thermal, shock, water) | Yes (thermal, shock, water) |
| Satellite Network | Iridium (SBD protocol) | Iridium (Certis IMT protocol) |
| GNSS | GPS, Galileo, QZSS, BeiDou (multi-band) | GPS, Galileo, QZSS, BeiDou (multi-band) |
| Compass | Digital compass (works stationary) | Digital compass (works stationary) |
| Text Messaging | 160 characters max | 1,600 characters max |
| Voice Messaging | — | 30-second voice messages via speaker/mic |
| Photo Sharing | — | Yes (via Garmin Messenger app) |
| Voice Commands | — | Yes |
| Emergency Siren | — | Yes |
| Battery Life (10-min tracking) | Up to 350 hours | Up to 350 hours |
| Performance Messaging Mode | — | Up to 90 hours |
| Interface | USB-C | USB-C |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth Low Energy | Bluetooth Low Energy |
| In the Box | Communicator, USB-C cable, documentation | Communicator, USB-C cable, loop carabiner, documentation |
How the inReach Mini 3 Compares to the Mini 2
Focus or hover a row label to see a plain‑English explanation of the feature.
| Feature |
Mini 2Previous Gen
|
Mini 3★ You Are Here
|
Messenger PlusPhone-Paired
|
GPSMAP 67iFull GPS
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display?The screen type and size used for reading messages, menus, and navigation. | 0.9″ mono MIP, 176×176 | 1.9″ color MIP, 306×230 | Small MIP status bar | 3″ color, 240×400 |
| Touchscreen?Whether the device has touch input for faster navigation and text entry. | ✕ No | ✓ Yes + buttons | ✕ No | ✕ No (buttons) |
| Weight?Device weight without accessories. Lighter is better for ultralight packing. | 3.53 oz (100 g) | 4.31 oz (122 g) | 4.0 oz (114 g) | 9.7 oz (275 g) |
| Water Rating?The ingress protection rating. IP67 adds dust protection; IPX7 is water-only. | IPX7 | IP67 | IPX7 | IPX7 |
| MIL-STD-810?U.S. military standard for environmental testing: thermal shock, vibration, humidity, and impact. | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Charging?The connector type used for charging and data transfer. | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C |
| Feature |
Mini 2Previous Gen
|
Mini 3★ You Are Here
|
Messenger PlusPhone-Paired
|
GPSMAP 67iFull GPS
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Satellite Network?The satellite constellation used for message transmission. Iridium provides 100% global coverage. | Iridium (SBD) | Iridium (SBD or IMT on Plus) | Iridium (IMT) | Iridium (SBD) |
| Two-Way Messaging?Send and receive text messages to any phone, email, or inReach device via satellite. | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Max Message Length?The maximum number of characters per outgoing text message. | 160 characters | 160 chars (1,600 on Plus) | 1,600 characters | 160 characters |
| Interactive SOS?Two-way emergency communication with Garmin Response 24/7 coordination center. | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Voice Messaging?Send and receive 30-second voice clips via satellite. Requires built-in speaker/mic. | ✕ No | Mini 3 Plus only | ✓ Yes | ✕ No |
| Photo Sharing?Send photos via satellite using the Garmin Messenger app on your paired smartphone. | ✕ No | Mini 3 Plus only | ✓ Yes | ✕ No |
| LiveTrack?Friends and family follow your location on a web page in real time. | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Weather Forecasts?Request weather reports for your current location or a destination waypoint. | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Emergency Siren?A loud audible siren to attract nearby attention during an emergency. | ✕ No | Mini 3 Plus only | ✕ No | ✕ No |
| Feature |
Mini 2Previous Gen
|
Mini 3★ You Are Here
|
Messenger PlusPhone-Paired
|
GPSMAP 67iFull GPS
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GNSS?The satellite positioning systems used for location accuracy. More systems = better accuracy. | GPS, Galileo, QZSS, BeiDou | GPS, Galileo, QZSS, BeiDou (multi-band) | GPS, Galileo, QZSS, BeiDou | GPS, Galileo, QZSS, BeiDou (multi-band) |
| Multi-Band Frequency?Receives two signal frequencies from each satellite for improved accuracy in challenging environments. | ✕ No | ✓ Yes | ✕ No | ✓ Yes |
| Digital Compass?Provides accurate heading information even when standing still. | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes (ABC sensors) |
| TracBack Routing?Retrace your exact path back to your starting point. | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Preloaded Maps?On-device topographic maps for trail navigation without a phone. | ✕ No | ✕ No | ✕ No | ✓ Yes TopoActive |
| Battery (10-min tracking)?Battery life in default 10-minute location tracking mode. | Up to 14 days (~336 hrs) | Up to 350 hours | Up to 600 hours | Up to 165 hours |
| Bluetooth | BLE | BLE | BLE | BLE, Wi-Fi |
| MSRP?Manufacturer’s suggested retail price. | $399.99 | $449.99 / $499.99 (Plus) | $399.99 | $599.99 |
Where does the inReach Mini 3 fit in the lineup?
Previous Generation — inReach Mini 2
- From $399.99
- Lightest option at 3.53 oz. Same Iridium SOS and two-way messaging. 0.9″ monochrome screen, button-only controls, IPX7 water rating. Best for ultralight backpackers who prioritize minimum weight and simplicity.
- View on heartratemonitorsusa.com →
★ You Are Here — inReach Mini 3
- From $449.99
- 1.9″ color touchscreen, multi-band GNSS, IP67, 350 hrs battery. Plus model adds voice/photo messaging, 1,600-char texts, and Iridium IMT for $499.99.
- View on heartratemonitorsusa.com →
Phone-Paired Alternative — inReach Messenger Plus
- From $399.99
- Designed to pair with your smartphone. Voice and photo messaging, 1,600-char texts, 600 hrs battery. No touchscreen or on-device keyboard — pairs with Garmin Messenger app for full messaging. Best for hikers who always carry a phone.
- View on heartratemonitorsusa.com →
Full GPS Navigator — GPSMAP 67i
- From $599.99
- 3″ color display with preloaded TopoActive maps, multi-band GNSS, ABC sensors (altimeter/barometer/compass), and built-in inReach satellite messaging. 165 hrs battery, IPX7. Best for hikers who want a dedicated GPS navigator with full mapping and inReach in one device.
- View on heartratemonitorsusa.com →
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inReach® Mini 3 — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the inReach Mini 3 and the inReach Mini 3 Plus?
Both models share the same physical dimensions (2.16″ × 3.85″ × 1.05″), the same 1.9″ color touchscreen (306 × 230 pixels), the same multi-band GNSS (GPS, Galileo, QZSS, BeiDou), and the same interactive SOS capability via the Iridium satellite network. The Mini 3 Plus adds a built-in speaker and microphone for 30-second voice messages and voice-to-text transcription, photo sharing via the Garmin Messenger app, longer 1,600-character messages (vs. 160 on the base), faster message sending via the Iridium Certis IMT module (vs. Iridium SBD on the base), voice commands, and an emergency siren. The Plus weighs 4.42 oz (125.2 g) vs. 4.31 oz (122.2 g) for the base. The Mini 3 is $449.99 and the Mini 3 Plus is $499.99 — for the $50 difference, most users will find the Plus worth it.
Do I need a satellite subscription to use the inReach Mini 3?
Yes. An active Garmin inReach satellite subscription is required for all messaging, SOS, tracking, and location-sharing features. Plans start at $7.99/month. Without a subscription, the device can still function as a basic GPS navigator with compass, TracBack routing, and weather (if cached), but you cannot send or receive any satellite messages or trigger SOS. You can choose annual or month-to-month plans through your Garmin Explore account.
How does the inReach Mini 3 compare to the inReach Mini 2?
The Mini 3 is a significant upgrade over the Mini 2. The most noticeable change is the new 1.9″ color touchscreen (306 × 230 pixels) replacing the Mini 2’s tiny 0.9″ monochrome display (176 × 176 pixels). The Mini 3 adds multi-band GNSS frequency support for better positioning accuracy, IP67 dust/water protection (vs. IPX7), and MIL-STD-810 certification. Battery life increases to 350 hours at 10-minute tracking (vs. 336 hours / 14 days on the Mini 2). The Mini 3 also gains a touchscreen with on-device QWERTY keyboard for faster message composition. Physical buttons remain available for gloved or wet-hand use. The trade-off is slightly more weight: 4.31 oz (122.2 g) vs. 3.53 oz (100 g). The Mini 2 remains available at $399.99 for users who want the lightest, simplest option.
Can I use the inReach Mini 3 for diving?
The inReach Mini 3 has an IP67 water rating, meaning it can survive incidental immersion to 1 meter for 30 minutes. It is NOT a dive-rated device. For underwater protection to 100 meters, Garmin offers a separate Dive Case for inReach Mini 3 (MPN 010-13990-00, $99.99). Satellite communication does not work underwater — the Iridium network requires sky access. The dive case protects your device at depth so it’s ready to use the moment you surface. The inReach Mini 3 also pairs with Garmin Descent series dive computers via Bluetooth at the surface for SOS, preset messages, and weather.
What Garmin devices can I pair with the inReach Mini 3?
The inReach Mini 3 pairs with a wide range of Garmin products via Bluetooth, allowing you to control inReach functions (messaging, SOS, tracking) from the paired device. Compatible products include: Garmin Descent Mk3i, Mk3, and X50i dive computers; fēnix 7/8 series and Enduro watches; Instinct 2/3 series; Forerunner 955/965 and newer; GPSMAP 67/67i handhelds; Edge cycling computers; and many more. Check Garmin’s compatibility page for the full list. You can also pair with the Garmin Messenger app on your smartphone for optimized messaging via Wi-Fi, cellular, or satellite.
What is included in the box?
The inReach Mini 3 (base) includes: inReach Mini 3 satellite communicator, USB-C charging/data cable, and documentation. The inReach Mini 3 Plus adds a loop carabiner in the box. Neither model includes a satellite subscription, carabiner (base model only), or dive case — these are purchased separately.
Does the inReach Mini 3 have maps and navigation?
The inReach Mini 3 has basic on-device navigation including a digital compass, TracBack routing (retrace your path), waypoints, and the ability to load and follow GPX routes displayed as a line on the color screen. It does NOT have detailed topographic maps on the device — the built-in basemap is very basic. For full trip planning, route creation, and topographic mapping, pair the device with the Garmin Explore app on your smartphone. The Explore app provides detailed maps, waypoints, courses, and activity tracking that sync to the inReach Mini 3 via Bluetooth.
Need help choosing? Call us at 1-800-403-8285 or 215-259-2700. Our team is happy to help you find the right Garmin satellite communicator.