Aside from the cost disadvantage, InReach provides some nice additional info for each of its tracking points, altitude, speed, and bearing (or heading). I't also pretty much bullet proof in terms of reliability. I've seen 30 minutes or more go by without a successful Spot tracking point getting through. Since InReach is two-way, it simply keeps sending until it gets through. InReach uses Iridium sats, Spot uses Globalstar . . .

Globalstar Phones: Disadvantages
1.Globalstar started to experience premature satellite failures in 2007 and launched 8 emergency satellites in 2008. Currently the system is “up” around 65% of the time, meaning 35% of the time you would have to wait until a functioning satellite is available. Go to www.globalstarusa.com to see satellite availability.
2.Not as much coverage worldwide as Iridium. Little coverage in China and Southern Africa and none at the North or South Poles.

Iridium Phones: Advantages
1.Satellites are available 98% of the time. Almost no waiting to process a call.
2.Coverage better than Globalstar phones. Works in most areas of the world..

bumper