PLB comparisons
2025-03-13 18:03
A few options. Prices in NZD.
SOS Only
Ocean Signal's rescueME PLB1
I currently own this. Have never set it off. Test regularly. Got registration transferred from Australian to New Zealand rescue services with no hassle. Service was good. Size is fine. Rugged and has soft casing which is enough.
- Device cost: $530 - $600
- Subscription: Not required.
Kannad SafeLink Solo 311 PLB
- Device cost: $429
- Subscription: Not required.
SOS and Messaging
All of these require a subscription to use BOTH the SOS and messaging. I find it ridiculous SOS is not free on these devices.
SPOT GEN3
- Device cost: $274.85
- Subscription: $28.01/month (12-month lock-in) or $34.03/month
ZOLEO Satellite Communicator
- Device cost: $385
- Subscription: $35/month
Garmin inReach Messenger
- Device cost: $549
- Subscription: $80 activation fee + $30/month
Garmin inReach Mini 2
- Device cost: $829
- Subscription: $80 activation fee + $30/month
Not a huge difference between Messenger and Mini 2 so not sure why the crazy price difference. Rick wrote up a good comparison post when the difference in price was only $90 USD.
Conclusion
I will stick with my rescueMe, but do a bit more around logging my plans with appropriate people. Lately I have been doing missions with friends who have these messaging devices so it's only my solo missions where I'll have SOS only. I could also borrow inReachs if they aren't using them at the same time, and contribute to their monthly fee if they've already paid for it, or pay for a month if they have not.