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5 Best Personal Locator Beacons

Updated
Updated

Main Features

  • Two-way messaging
  • Global SOS capabilities
  • Iridium satellite network
  • Compatible with Garmin devices

Product Overview

The Garmin inReach Mini is a compact satellite communicator that offers two-way messaging and SOS capabilities. Designed for adventurers who need reliable communication in remote areas, the inReach Mini connects to the Iridium satellite network, providing global coverage.

The device also pairs with compatible Garmin devices and smartphones for enhanced functionality. With its rugged construction and long battery life, the Garmin inReach Mini ensures you stay connected and safe, whether you're hiking, climbing, or exploring off the grid.

PROS
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Two-way messaging
  • Extended battery life
CONS
  • Requires subscription plan
  • Small screen size

Product Specifications

  • Weight 3.5 oz
  • Dimensions 2.04 x 3.90 x 1.03 inches
  • Battery Life Up to 90 hours
  • Waterproof Rating IPX7

Main Features

  • Ultra-compact design
  • 406 MHz and 121.5 MHz signals
  • Waterproof and floats
  • 7-year battery life

Product Overview

The Ocean Signal RescueME PLB1 is one of the smallest personal locator beacons available, yet it offers powerful and reliable emergency signaling. The compact design makes it easy to carry, whether in your pocket or attached to your gear.

Despite its small size, the PLB1 broadcasts a 406 MHz distress signal and a 121.5 MHz homing signal, ensuring rescuers can locate you quickly. The device is waterproof, floats, and has a 7-year battery life, making it a dependable choice for any adventure.

PROS
  • Extremely compact
  • Long battery life
  • Highly durable
CONS
  • No digital display
  • Limited to emergency use

Product Specifications

  • Weight 4.09 oz
  • Dimensions 3 x 2.1 x 1.3 inches
  • Battery Life 7 years
  • Waterproof Rating IP68

Main Features

  • GPS-enabled for accuracy
  • 406 MHz and 121.5 MHz signals
  • Waterproof design
  • 6-year battery life

Product Overview

The McMurdo FastFind 220 is a lightweight personal locator beacon equipped with GPS for accurate location tracking. This device is designed to facilitate quick and efficient rescues in emergencies. The FastFind 220 sends a 406 MHz distress signal and a 121.

5 MHz homing signal, providing both global and local search capabilities. It's waterproof, has a 6-year battery life, and is small enough to fit in your pocket, making it an excellent addition to your safety gear.

PROS
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Accurate GPS tracking
  • Durable and waterproof
CONS
  • No digital display
  • Battery not user-replaceable

Product Specifications

  • Weight 5.4 oz
  • Dimensions 1.34 x 1.85 x 4.17 inches
  • Battery Life 6 years
  • Waterproof Rating IPX7

Main Features

  • 406 MHz distress signal
  • Built-in GPS
  • Waterproof and floats
  • User-replaceable battery

Product Overview

The ACR GlobalFix V4 is an advanced Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) that offers unparalleled emergency signaling and location accuracy. Equipped with a powerful 406 MHz distress signal and GPS, the GlobalFix V4 ensures that rescuers can pinpoint your exact location quickly.

The device is built to endure extreme conditions, including being waterproof and able to float. It also features a user-replaceable battery, a 10-year battery life, and a built-in strobe light for increased visibility during rescues.

PROS
  • Highly accurate GPS
  • Durable and waterproof
  • User-replaceable battery
CONS
  • Bulkier than other PLBs
  • Higher price point

Product Specifications

  • Weight 20.5 oz
  • Dimensions 4.2 x 4.2 x 8.4 inches
  • Battery Life 10 years
  • Waterproof Rating IPX8