Thread: InReach compared to Zoleo

Originally Posted by SikaHuntaa

Nah, you need to use the internet site to reactivate the account, I also have a dedicated PLB, was debating if I was gonna get the batteries replaced in it once they're out in June but think I will to have a back up to a back up if all else fails

@SikaHuntaa
To me it looks like one could have the Zoleo and not worry about the PLB, if my thinking is right. Zoleo battery is rechargeable, so no new battery cost as for the PLB ( unless battery life is very short ). Zoleo has inbuilt SOS function but I don't know if this works identically to the PLB ... ? Some initial cost to get Zoleo set up from new but thereafter cost of use is more reasonable. Plus, with Zoleo you get texting and weather forecasting functions ( and others ? ) that a PLB unit does not have. To me looks sensible to have the Zoleo but am I missing anything ? I'm not a techy person so please feel free to put me right if you could. Cheers.

Originally Posted by 30.06king

@SikaHuntaa
To me it looks like one could have the Zoleo and not worry about the PLB, if my thinking is right. Zoleo battery is rechargeable, so no new battery cost as for the PLB ( unless battery life is very short ). Zoleo has inbuilt SOS function but I don't know if this works identically to the PLB ... ? Some initial cost to get Zoleo set up from new but thereafter cost of use is more reasonable. Plus, with Zoleo you get texting and weather forecasting functions ( and others ? ) that a PLB unit does not have. To me looks sensible to have the Zoleo but am I missing anything ? I'm not a techy person so please feel free to put me right if you could. Cheers.

What happens when you run your Zoleo flat and you break your leg etc?

I have both and take both, my understanding is the SOS on the PLB is far more reliable and goes straight to the people in NZ who need to know, with the Zoleo and InReach they get sent to the US who then transfer it over to NZ- not 100% sure on this but the little doubt in my mind about it keeps the PLB that I've had way longer than the Zoleo strapped to my pack as my main distress signal- shit if it came down to it I'd hit both and see what happened haha.
Being rechargable is nice and the unit should only ever be turned on if you intend on receiving texts or weather updates so really no risk of it running out of battery unless you are careless. For me having both brings piece of mind not only for me but for my missus so when the battery on the PLB goes out I'll get it redone and have both