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Garmin eTrex SE vs Garmin inReach Messenger

Weight and specs compared for 2026 — and which one to choose.

Garmin inReach Messenger is the lighter option — 42 g lighter than the Garmin eTrex SE (27% less weight). If grams matter to you, that is the one to beat.
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Spec Garmin eTrex SE Garmin inReach Messenger
Weight 157 g · 0.157 kg · 0.35 lb 115 g · 0.115 kg · 0.25 lb
Brand Garmin Garmin
Category Navigation Navigation
Garmin eTrex SE
157 g

Rugged entry-level handheld GPS with up to 168-hour battery life in standard mode. Sunlight-readable display with reliable satellite reception for trail navigat...

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Garmin inReach Messenger
115 g

Affordable satellite messenger with SOS and tracking.

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Garmin eTrex SE vs Garmin inReach Messenger: which should you buy?

If saving weight is your priority, the Garmin inReach Messenger wins — at 115 g it is 42 g (27%) lighter than the Garmin eTrex SE (157 g). That said, the heavier option may justify the extra grams with more capacity, durability or comfort, so weigh the trade-off against how you'll use it.

See where both rank against everything else in this category on the lightest navigation page, or browse the full gear weight database.

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