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10 Best Personal Locator Beacons 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator, Lightweight Compact Rugged Design, Portable GPS Handheld for Hiking, Two-Way Text Messaging Device Bundle with Accessories (Flame Red)
The Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator is a robust and compact GPS device designed for those who venture into remote areas. Utilizing the Iridium satellite network, it offers global coverage, ensuring you can send and receive messages even without cell service. This is particularly useful for hikers, trekkers, and other outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable communication in isolated locations. The interactive SOS feature provides added security, allowing you to reach the Garmin Response coordination center in emergencies, which is staffed 24/7 for immediate assistance.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,133
Ease of Use
Most important from
43 reviews
#2
ACR ResQLink 400 - SOS Personal Locator Beacon with GPS and Global Coverage - Designed to Alert Search and Rescue Efforts for Any Outdoor Emergency - Ideal for Hiking, Hunting, Boating, Fishing
The ACR ResQLink 400 is a well-regarded personal locator beacon, designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts such as hikers, hunters, boaters, and fishers. One significant advantage is that it doesn't require any subscription, making it a cost-effective choice over time. The device operates on a 406 MHz emergency distress signal and includes a homing signal for precise location tracking. It is equipped with both an LED and infrared strobe, enhancing visibility in various conditions.
Rating
10.0
Battery Life
Durability and Waterproof Rating
Size and Weight
Most important from
387 reviews
#3
Garmin inReach SE+, Handheld Satellite Communicator with GPS Navigation
The Garmin inReach SE+ is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable personal locator beacon with global satellite communication. It uses the Iridium satellite network, meaning you can send and receive text messages from almost anywhere worldwide, which is great if you’re often in remote areas. Its GPS navigation is enhanced by preloaded topographic maps, a digital compass, and helpful sensors like a barometric altimeter, which add accuracy and useful data for outdoor adventures. The device weighs only 8 ounces and is compact enough to carry comfortably, though it might feel a bit tall for some pockets at 6.5 inches in height. The 2.3-inch color screen is clear and easy to read even in sunlight, thanks to its transflective technology.
Rating
9.8
Battery Life
Durability and Waterproof Rating
Size and Weight
Most important from
258 reviews
Top 10 Best Personal Locator Beacons 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
10.0 score
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator, Lightweight Compact Rugged Design, Portable GPS Handheld for Hiking, Two-Way Text Messaging Device Bundle with Accessories (Flame Red)
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator, Lightweight Compact Rugged Design, Portable GPS Handheld for Hiking, Two-Way Text Messaging Device Bundle with Accessories (Flame Red)
Battery Life: 14 days default, 30 days interval
Durability and Waterproof Rating: IPX7
Size and Weight: 4” x 2”, 3.5 oz
GPS Accuracy: High accuracy, TracBack feature
Ease of Use: Buttons, 0.9-inch display
Chosen by 1133 this week
ACR ResQLink 400 - SOS Personal Locator Beacon with GPS and Global Coverage - Designed to Alert Search and Rescue Efforts for Any Outdoor Emergency - Ideal for Hiking, Hunting, Boating, Fishing
ACR ResQLink 400 - SOS Personal Locator Beacon with GPS and Global Coverage - Designed to Alert Search and Rescue Efforts for Any Outdoor Emergency - Ideal for Hiking, Hunting, Boating, Fishing
Signal Frequency: 406 MHz
Durability and Waterproof Rating: Waterproof
Size and Weight: 4.52 x 2.03 x 1.49 in, 5.3 oz
GPS Accuracy: GPS and Galileo GNSS
Garmin inReach SE+, Handheld Satellite Communicator with GPS Navigation
Garmin inReach SE+, Handheld Satellite Communicator with GPS Navigation
Signal Frequency: Iridium satellite network
Battery Life: good for extended trips
Size and Weight: 1.5 x 2.7 x 6.5 inches, 8 oz
GPS Accuracy: preloaded maps, compass, altimeter
Ease of Use: physical buttons, smartphone app
ACR ResQLink 400 GPS Personal Locator Beacon Survival Kit: Compact, Reliable, and Designed for Quick Rescue, ensuring Your Safety in Emergencies with GPS Precision.
ACR ResQLink 400 GPS Personal Locator Beacon Survival Kit: Compact, Reliable, and Designed for Quick Rescue, ensuring Your Safety in Emergencies with GPS Precision.
Durability and Waterproof Rating: waterproof, durable plastic build
Size and Weight: 11 x 4 x 7.5 inches, 0.01 oz
GPS Accuracy: GPS pinpoints location accurately
Ease of Use: straightforward to use
ACR ResQLink View RLS - SOS Personal Locator Beacon - Digital Display, Return Link Service, GPS Global Coverage to Alert Search and Rescue - Outdoor Emergency, Ideal for Hiking Hunting Boating Fishing
ACR ResQLink View RLS - SOS Personal Locator Beacon - Digital Display, Return Link Service, GPS Global Coverage to Alert Search and Rescue - Outdoor Emergency, Ideal for Hiking Hunting Boating Fishing
Battery Life: 5-year shelf, 28 hours operational
Durability and Waterproof Rating: Built-in buoyancy
Size and Weight: 4.52 x 2.03 x 1.19 inches
GPS Accuracy: Global coverage with GPS, Galileo
Ease of Use: Buttons interface, no subscription
Related Products
ACR ResQLink 410 RLS - SOS Personal Locator Beacon with Return Link Service GPS Global Coverage Designed to Alert Search and Rescue for Any Outdoor Emergency Ideal for Hiking Hunting Boating Fishing
ACR ResQLink 410 RLS - SOS Personal Locator Beacon with Return Link Service GPS Global Coverage Designed to Alert Search and Rescue for Any Outdoor Emergency Ideal for Hiking Hunting Boating Fishing
Battery Life: 24 Hours
Size and Weight: 4.52 x 2.03 x 1.49 inches
GPS Accuracy: GPS and Galileo GNSS
Ease of Use: Buttons
ACR GLOBALFIX V6 GPS EPIRB SOS, Global Coverage, Return Link Service & Mobile App - CAT 2 Manual Release Bracket (2854) - Global Satellite Emergency Signaling for Search & Rescue,10 Year Battery Life
ACR GLOBALFIX V6 GPS EPIRB SOS, Global Coverage, Return Link Service & Mobile App - CAT 2 Manual Release Bracket (2854) - Global Satellite Emergency Signaling for Search & Rescue,10 Year Battery Life
Battery Life: 10 years
Durability and Waterproof Rating: highly durable, waterproof
Size and Weight: 18.5 x 4.3 x 4.36 in; 1.78 lbs
GPS Accuracy: uses GPS, Galileo, Glonass GNSS
Ease of Use: NFC, ACR Beacon Mobile App
ACR RESQLINK AIS Personal Locator Beacon - SOS, GPS, Return Link Service, Mobile App and Accessory Clips (Model PLB-450) - Alert Local AIS & Global Satellite Emergency Signaling for Search & Rescue
ACR RESQLINK AIS Personal Locator Beacon - SOS, GPS, Return Link Service, Mobile App and Accessory Clips (Model PLB-450) - Alert Local AIS & Global Satellite Emergency Signaling for Search & Rescue
Signal Frequency: 406 MHz global satellite, local VHF AIS
Battery Life: 5 years, 24+ hours operation post-activation
Durability and Waterproof Rating: Waterproof, designed for outdoor use
Size and Weight: 6.8 oz, 20x20x20 inches
GPS Accuracy: Uses GNSS data support
Ease of Use: Semi-auto activation, NFC, multifunction clip
Spot Gen 4 Satellite GPS Messenger | Handheld Portable GPS Messenger for Hiking, Camping, Outdoor Activities | Globalstar Satellite Network Coverage | Subscription Applicable
Spot Gen 4 Satellite GPS Messenger | Handheld Portable GPS Messenger for Hiking, Camping, Outdoor Activities | Globalstar Satellite Network Coverage | Subscription Applicable
Battery Life: 4 AAA batteries
Durability and Waterproof Rating: durable and waterproof
Size and Weight: 1.04 x 2.66 x 3.48 in; 10.6 oz
GPS Accuracy: commendable
Ease of Use: decent
#10
8.4 score
Ocean Signal rescueME PLB1 Personal Locator Beacon-Compact Emergency Distress Beacon with 7-Year Battery Life, 24+Hours of Operation & Lifejacket Attachment - Waterproof up to 49 feet
Ocean Signal rescueME PLB1 Personal Locator Beacon-Compact Emergency Distress Beacon with 7-Year Battery Life, 24+Hours of Operation & Lifejacket Attachment - Waterproof up to 49 feet
Battery Life: 7-year battery, 24+ hour operational
Durability and Waterproof Rating: waterproof
Size and Weight: 3 x 2.1 x 1.3 inches
GPS Accuracy: 66-channel GPS receiver
Ease of Use: button operation
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Buying Guide for the Best Personal Locator Beacons
Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) are essential devices for anyone who spends time in remote or potentially dangerous environments. These devices can send out a distress signal to emergency services, ensuring that help can find you even in the most isolated locations. When choosing a PLB, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure that the device meets your needs and provides reliable performance in an emergency situation.Signal FrequencyThe signal frequency of a PLB is crucial because it determines how effectively the device can communicate with rescue services. Most PLBs operate on the 406 MHz frequency, which is monitored by a global network of satellites. This frequency is highly reliable and ensures that your distress signal can be picked up from virtually anywhere on the planet. When choosing a PLB, make sure it operates on the 406 MHz frequency to ensure maximum reliability and coverage.
Battery LifeBattery life is a critical factor in the performance of a PLB. The battery needs to last long enough to ensure that your distress signal can be transmitted continuously until help arrives. PLBs typically have a battery life ranging from 24 to 48 hours. If you plan to be in very remote areas or on extended trips, opt for a PLB with a longer battery life to ensure continuous operation in case of an emergency.
Durability and Waterproof RatingDurability and waterproof rating are important because PLBs are often used in harsh environments. A durable PLB can withstand drops, impacts, and extreme temperatures, while a high waterproof rating ensures that the device will function even if it gets wet. Look for PLBs with a waterproof rating of at least IP67, which means the device can be submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. This ensures that your PLB will work reliably in all conditions.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of a PLB can affect how convenient it is to carry with you. Smaller and lighter PLBs are easier to pack and carry, making them ideal for activities like hiking, backpacking, and kayaking. However, smaller devices may have shorter battery life or fewer features. Consider your activity and how much weight you can comfortably carry when choosing the size and weight of your PLB.
GPS AccuracyGPS accuracy is important because it determines how precisely your location can be pinpointed by rescue services. A PLB with high GPS accuracy can reduce the time it takes for help to find you. Look for PLBs with built-in GPS that can provide location accuracy within a few meters. This is especially important if you are in a densely forested area or rugged terrain where precise location information is crucial.
Ease of UseIn an emergency, you need to be able to activate your PLB quickly and easily. A PLB with a simple and intuitive activation process can be a lifesaver. Look for devices with clear instructions and a straightforward activation mechanism, such as a single button press. Additionally, consider whether the PLB has features like a test mode, which allows you to check that the device is functioning properly without sending a false alarm.