Extreme Tree Canopy Test - inReach, iPhone, ZOLEO, SPOT X

I took the top satellite communicators to a extreme canopy in the Pacific Northwest, including the inReach Mini 2, inReach Messenger, SPOT X, Motorola Defy, and iPhone 14.
Mini 2: https://amzn.to/3PVkN7J
Messenger: https://amzn.to/49upxYI
ZOLEO: https://amzn.to/3xn4fyY
SPOX X: https://amzn.to/3vRxb1C

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00:00 Why Test?
00:20 Test Area
00:57 Methodology
02:54 Globalstar
03:14 SPOT X
03:56 iPhone
04:40 Motorola Defy
05:37 Iridium
06:22 ZOLEO
06:54 inReach Mini 2
07:37 inReach Messenger
08:30 Conclusions

#garmin #gps #inreach
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‪@GarminInt‬ ‪@ZOLEOLife‬ ‪@Apple‬ ‪@GlobalStar.‬

When I conduct tests on satellite communicators, one of the most common questions I'm asked is whether they function effectively under a dense tree canopy. It’s a valid concern because, as any user manual will tell you, these devices perform best with a clear view of the sky—a condition not always possible, especially when trekking through lush forests. To put these communicators to the ultimate test, I decided to locate the thickest canopy within the continental US using various data sources, including LIDAR data and the Sentinel satellite vegetation index. This led me to the Olympic Peninsula, an area known for its dense, healthy vegetation and challenging terrain, including steep canyons which add another layer of complexity to the test.

Here in the Olympic National Forest, right next to the Olympic National Park, the conditions are as challenging as they come. With old-growth forests overhead and a canyon floor beneath, this location is perfect for testing the transmission capabilities of each device through both dense canopy and rugged terrain. Partnering with fellow enthusiasts, including Rick from Hiking Emergency Beacon, we set out to exchange messages using these devices, adjusting settings based on advice from ZOLEO engineers to avoid any interference between the units.

This field test isn’t conducted in a sterile lab environment; it's grounded in real-world conditions that you might face while hiking or backpacking. Over a 24-hour period, we used the devices in various locations, aiming to realistically assess performance under typical use conditions. After returning to Southern California, the results were quite enlightening. Not only did I get a clearer understanding of each device's capabilities, but I also gained insights into the different satellite networks they utilize, such as Globalstar and Iridium, and their effectiveness in severe environments.

If you're curious about the technical details or the performance of specific devices like the iPhone 14, Motorola Defy, ZOLEO, or Garmin inReach units, stay tuned. I will be breaking down each device’s performance and sharing comprehensive reviews on my channel and website. Whether you are a casual hiker or a serious trekker, understanding the capabilities of these satellite communicators can significantly impact your safety and connectivity in remote locations.