SPOT II Satellite GPS Messenger

I recently purchased a new SPOT 2 Satellite GPS Messenger to replace my SPOT 1 Personal Tracker.
The smaller size and lighter weight is what initially drew my attention to the new unit. I have not field tested the SPOT 2 extensively, but testing during short day trips have shown the unit to work as expected. Initially there was a voluntary recall due to battery issues with the SPOT 2. I waited until the issues were resolved before making my purchase.

My initial impressions of the SPOT 2 are positive. The smaller size, lighter weight, and better satellite reception are welcome features. The new unit also is more intuitive in its use and function. The Help and SOS/911 buttons are also covered so that they cannot be accidentally activated.
The SPOT 2 has shorter battery life when compared to the SPOT 1. Also, the SPOT 2 does not float. I have never dropped  my original SPOT 1 into the water, except for testing, but this is an item worth noting. The new SPOT 2 does not have an integrated belt clip. It does come with a neoprene cell phone type belt case with a small carabiner. The case also comes with an armband attachment.
In regards to battery life, the original SPOT 1 had fairly long life. The new SPOT 2 has shorter battery life, and this is also affected due to the amount of clear sky the unit has access to.

So far I am very happy with the new unit. It acquires a satellite lock quickly. The help and SOS/911 buttons are covered. The unit is smaller and lighter. The new unit also has an additional custom message button. (I use the custom message button to let my family know when I have reached a summit).

The battery life may be a concern on longer trips, but so far my initial testing has shown that the batteries are lasting slightly longer than the spec sheets state.

The original SPOT 1 served me well last year. Trip were created and shared on the spotadventures.com website and friends and family could follow along live using the google maps sharing features.

I’ll post an updated review specifically for the SPOT 2 after I have a few more field tests completed.

Remember, this is not a true PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) but is a great tool to keep friends and family updated on your travels and to request assistance if needed.

Here are the basic specs for the two units:
SPOT 1
Battery Type:    AA Lithium
Power ON, unused:    Approx. I year*
Tracking mode:    Approx. 14 days*
S.O.S./911 mode:    up to 7 consecutive days
Check / OK:    1900 messages*
*Under normal usage a full battery charge should
meet or exceed these amounts

SPOT 2 – 100% Clear View of Sky
Battery Type:3 AAA lithium batteries
Power ON: ~ 3 months
Tracking Mode: ~ 7 days
S.O.S./911 Mode: ~ 6 days
Check-in/Custom Message: ~ 700 messages

SPOT 2 – 50% Clear View of Sky
Battery Type:3 AAA lithium batteries
Power ON: ~ 3 months
Tracking Mode: ~ 3 days
S.O.S./911 Mode: ~ 3.5 days
Check-in/Custom Message: ~ 350 messages