How to Choose Between a PLB and a Satellite Messenger 340
by Admin
Posted on 26-10-2023 11:41 AM
While many people consider unplugging to be an essential part of immersing themselves in the natural world, it’s also true that there might come a
time
when one truly needs to call for help. Smartphones, which are seemingly in-hand 24/7, are a tempting solution, but 911 networks offer limited connectivity in ma nature’s domain.
When you’re on an outdoor adventure, plbs and satellite messengers are your two best options for sending distress signals.
To compile this review, we started by carefully selecting the top models of satellite messenger and personal locator beacons. It's usually impossible for us to satisfactorily test every product on the market for a particular category. With plbs and satellite messengers, though, there aren't many options available, and we can test nearly every device. Especially in the two-way satellite messaging device sub-category, we've worked to get every single new option in our hands. The end result is a set of tested products that represent essentially all of the available satellite communication options currently on the market. From there, we purchased and activated these beacons and put them to the test for hundreds of hours, side-by-side, in several distinct situations and locations.
When you’re on the hunt for the best plb, you may discover a device called a spot messenger, or satellite messenger. While both spot messengers and plbs have their place, there are some remarkable differences between the two.
Whether you're backpacking, backcountry skiing or adventuring out of service range, a satellite messenger, gps device or personal locator beacon (plb) for your outdoor pursuits is important. After all, your safety is on the line. But choosing the right one for your needs can be difficult. We looked at 28 units, from garmin to spot and everything in between, compiling the top professional and user reviews, and comparing models side-by-side for weight, budget, battery life, communication capabilities and subscription costs. The result: our top winners for the best personal locator beacons and two-way satellite messengers for every kind of user.
PLBs vs. Satellite Messengers
What is a satellite messenger?
satellite messengers have the sos feature of a plb but add on tracking and two-way messaging for users who want to be connected while backcountry exploring. They are ideal for hikers and backpackers who travel to remote areas where there is no mobile phone coverage and want to stay in contact with friends and family at home. (a map of spot's coverage)
how does a satellite messenger work?
unlike the plbs which use the government-backed sarsat satellite network and sar resources, the satellite messengers use a commercial satellite network (iridium or globalstar) and a private sector response center to handle emergency calls.
Before diving into the specifics of each top-rated personal locator beacon, it’s essential to understand what plbs and satellite messengers are and how they work. Plbs and satellite messengers, both emergency beacons on their own, are designed to transmit distress signals in emergencies through a satellite system. Still, they operate differently and serve distinct purposes. Knowing the operational functionality of a plb or satellite messenger can help you make an informed decision. Understanding the operational functionality, advantages, and disadvantages of each option can assist you in determining the most suitable type for your outdoor adventure requirements.
Personal locator beacons (plbs) are that one thing all hikers should carry, but very few do. Not sure what a plb even is? we’ve got the comprehensive guide to plbs and satellite messengers; how they work, and why you need one on your next adventure.