In order for you a less complicated tracker for single-stint adventures, the Spot Gen4 provides dependable one-way comms and site monitoring. Performance right here is restricted in comparison with extra succesful two-way rivals, however there are some neat security extras, and the endurance is superb. This beast goes lengthy.
It’s a one-way messenger, so in contrast to most of the units on this checklist, you possibly can solely beam easy outbound notes, you possibly can’t obtain replies from the parents again dwelling.
In testing, I used the Spot Gen4 for many totally different one-day extremely runs within the European mountain ranges, and it’s nice for providing that straightforward consolation of security crews realizing the place you’re always.
I like which you can program it to activate monitoring if you attain or depart from particular areas, and powering off whilst you sit nonetheless earlier than turning on if you transfer, is nice for sparing important battery life.
The SOS features are simple to make use of, and the Spot Gen4 is quick to ship up the metaphorical flares. Plus, there’s a Spot Help button that’ll notify contacts that you just want some assist however your struggles are non-life-threatening—let’s say you’ve run out of gasoline within the desert, for instance.
Outbound messaging capabilities embrace SMS, electronic mail, and sure social media platforms, however this must be programmed whilst you’re nonetheless in civilization. You may’t do it on the fly sitting on a rock half approach up Kilimanjaro.
Not like most of your outside package—head mild, telephone, GPS watch—which now use USB charging, the Spot Gen4 runs on AAA batteries. That has execs and cons. The battery life is superb, and it’s simpler to swap in new batteries than it is perhaps to discover a energy supply, however I did discover it barely bothersome carrying further package.
