Somewear Global Hotspot

Description

$280 | 117.2 g (4.1 oz) We think of the Somewear Global Hotspot as something of a modernized inReach “Lite.” The Somewear takes some (but not all) of the inReach functionality and updates it with a contemporary user interface so simple it does not have a user manual. As such, it is the best blend of functionality and ease of use. And the Somewear adds seamless text and email messaging between cellular, WiFi and satellite data (no charges for cell and WiFi messages). Like the inReach, The Somewear has excellent full-function tracking and provides a public web interface for people to follow your track on a map. The phone App allows downloading of maps for use when you do not have cell or WiFi data. On the downside, the Somewear is the least usable stand alone satellite communicator. Basically all you can do without your phone is send an SOS message. This is not surprising with a single on/off button, and a single monochrome LED on the unit (in addition to the protected SOS activation button). [Note: users can also use the power button to toggle tracking on/off on the device.] PROS Lighter and smaller than the ZOLEO. Reasonable cost data plan. Tri-network connectivity for messaging, locations, and tracking. Has all the basic/necessary messaging and tracking functionality for backcountry use that goes well beyond messaging; including full-function tracking, with web viewing that competes with the Garmin inReach ; waypoint setting, and offline maps. Given its functionality it still has a simple and easy to operate App. The Somewear may be the best blend of functionality and ease of use of all the units. CONS More expensive that ZOLEO or Bivy Stick. Larger & heavier than inReach or Bivy Stick. No group messaging. Of all the units this is the one that relies entirely on phone/App use except for sending an SOS. From the unit itself there are no audible alerts and a single blinking light provides little or no user feedback on the unit’s status. It has the least detailed weather reports (e.g. no wind speed predictions). Mid-level data plan is a good value, but if you want to do any serious tracking, you’ll need to upgrade to the $50 premium plan (the $35 Garmin Recreation plan is actually a better deal if you intend to do a bunch of tracking).