Whether you’re organizing a pickup, starting a rescue, or simply checking in, satellite communicators have become the go-to tool for staying connected in places without cellular service. In addition to sending and receiving messages in most cases, these devices offer a variety of other features, including location sharing, GPS navigation, and weather reporting.
From international expeditions in Africa and Nepal to remote hiking and backpacking trips across the country, we’ve selected seven standouts below, with a selection of leading models that will get you as far away from cellular service as possible.
From high-performance hotspots that pair with your smartphone to simple one-way messengers, here are our picks for the best satellite messengers of 2024. See our comparison chart and buying advice for more details.
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Best Satellite Communicators 2024
1. Garmin Montana 750i Rugged GPS Handheld
The Montana 750i is a rugged, versatile GPS navigator and satellite communicator that keeps you connected and on track. It combines TopoActive and City Navigator mapping with global two-way messaging and interactive SOS via inReach satellite technology (active satellite subscription required; some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communicators). Also capture your outdoor adventures with the built-in 8-megapixel camera.
The 5-inch color touchscreen features a full QWERTY keyboard for messaging and a 50% larger display than previous models. Includes multi-GNSS support and a 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter sensor. Wireless Pro connectivity lets you download BirdsEye satellite imagery, share your location, and access Connect IQ app support directly on your device.
Pair with a compatible smartphone to access Active Weather forecasts. Extend battery life by up to a week with the new ultra-low-power Expedition mode. For hunters and trainers, this IPX7-rated device syncs with compatible Astro or Alpha series handhelds (sold separately) to help you track your sporting dog in the field.
2. Garmin GPSMAP 67i
The Garmin GPSMAP 67i is the best satellite communication device with GPS navigation we’ve tested. Unlike other communicators that require you to pair with a smartphone to improve navigation, the 67i does it all in one standalone device.
The 67i features a large, vibrant color display with high-resolution preloaded and downloadable maps. It utilizes multi-band GNSS satellite technology to provide fast, accurate positioning within 6 feet. The 67i’s features include tracking, TracBack, line-of-sight navigation, and waypoint/course creation.
Additional features include trip sharing via the Garmin Explorer app, real-time weather updates, messaging with other users, email and text capabilities, social media integration, and interactive SOS. The device also has an integrated altimeter, barometer, and compass.
Built to military standards, the 67i can withstand harsh weather and can be submerged in 3 feet of water for 30 minutes. The built-in lithium-ion battery provides up to 6.8 days of tracking in 10-minute tracking mode and fully charges in just 2 hours via USB-C.
The device also includes a small flashlight and access to wikiloc, a trail encyclopedia app with global trail information and a worldwide user community.
Note: Access to all of the Garmin GPSMAP 67i’s features (including the all-important SOS feature) requires a subscription. With a subscription, users can take advantage of inReach features like mapping, tracking, weather forecasts, and a host of other features of the satellite communicator. Without a Garmin subscription, the 67i is limited to basic GPS navigation, mapping, and core features.
3. ZOLEO Satellite Communicator
The cheapest satellite messenger doesn’t have to be the most basic. The ZOLEO Satellite Communicator ($200) builds in a feature set for budget-conscious adventurers who don’t want to skimp on features by offering simple device features along with more options when paired with a smartphone app.
The Satellite Communicator offers basic messaging (SOS and preset “OK” messages) through the device, and adds additional options via the smartphone app, including composing messages for both sending and receiving.
The device primarily uses the Iridium global satellite network, but can also send messages using cellular coverage. Like Garmin Messenger, the ZOLEO device defaults to sending messages using cellular or Wi-Fi service when available, and will receive messages even when the device is turned off.
You can compose specific messages within the simple app, but not on the device itself. This is our main complaint about the ZOLEO device, as it could be very useful for tweaking, and it’s hard to sell because it could potentially lose functionality if your phone breaks. Fortunately, the power button sends a preset notification to let your programmed contacts know it’s working, which in our opinion is a nice addition.
We actually found the ZOLEO to be a breeze to set up and get started with, and the connection to Iridium was successful, even within the slow limits of satellite communications. The color-coded buttons on the device helped shorten connection times by indicating when you might need to get out of the trees to find a better signal.
We enjoyed the device’s durable design, budget-friendly initial cost, and the additional features in the app. Taken together, ZOLEO’s Satellite Communicator provides a solid entry point for anyone looking for a satellite messenger that doesn’t require the full functionality of a device.
4. Garmin inReach Mini 2
Most backcountry enthusiasts are looking for a compact, long-lasting satellite messenger that can comfortably communicate from their smartphone, and the Garmin inReach Mini 2 does it all better than most. Weighing just 3.5 ounces, the Mini is one of the lightest devices here, but it’s also one of the most capable.
It connects to the Iridium satellite network (widely considered the most reliable for coverage), offers impressive battery life, and a relatively easy-to-learn interface that keeps the Mini 2 fully functional even if your smartphone dies.
Add in features like weather forecasts, location tracking and sharing, maps and navigation via the Garmin Explore app, and a competitively priced monthly plan, and the Mini 2 is the perfect package for most backcountry users.
Compared to the first-generation Mini, the Mini 2 offers improved battery life, expanded storage, a higher-resolution display, connectivity to a wider variety of satellite systems, and a more robust USB-C connection. It’s also compatible with Garmin’s Messenger app for seamless communication across satellite, Wi-Fi, and cellular networks.
This is a great feature for those who use the service infrequently, including long-distance hikers, international travelers, and those living in rural areas. When one of our authors recently went on a month-long expedition to Nepal, he was able to stay in touch with friends in the US and on remote mountain ranges and peaks up to 20,000 feet high.
He was impressed with the improved functionality of the 2 compared to his older 1st generation Mini, which he had used on many of his long-distance hikes. It’s worth noting that, unlike many of the products below, the Mini 2 can be used without a smartphone. This is a nice safety measure in case your phone malfunctions or loses power. This is a perfect package for most people, and there’s a reason why the InReach Mini 2 is used more in the field than any other device here.
5. SPOT X
Think a Blackberry with a satellite connection. That’s what comes to mind when you first use the SPOT X Satellite Messenger ($250). That’s why it’s easily the best on-screen communicator. Ideal for adventurers who don’t want to be tethered to their smartphone in any way, this device does it all on its own.
The illuminated QWERTY keyboard is the real star of the show, making the SPOT X an effective on-device messaging machine. It’s a nice bonus for communicating outdoors when you don’t want to take out your smartphone. The device incorporates predictive text technology, making it easy to skim through long messages.
Along with SOS and directions, what really makes the SPOT X stand out is its two-way communication. Originally available without this feature, you can now decide whether to send and receive messages using the relevant smartphone app, or to keep your smartphone and send and receive only on your device. It’s actually quite easy to do.
Unfortunately, the SPOT Globalstar network is one of the slower satellite options we looked at, and you’ll definitely need to find a clear path into the sky for the SPOT X. However, if you can do that, communication speeds can be faster.
We had a few complaints about setting up the SPOT X, as it requires a cable and a computer for firmware updates. However, once you get over that hurdle, this is a very simple piece of kit to operate.
The SPOT X puts its features first. If this is important to you and you don’t mind the extra weight of the device, consider this option.
FAQ
What is a satellite communicator?
Like a satellite phone, this is a device that connects to a constellation of orbiting satellites, but rather than focusing on voice calls, it focuses on sending and receiving SMS and email messages. Some devices are standalone with a built-in keyboard, while others connect to a smartphone for a keyboard and display.
How much do satellite phones/communicators cost?
Satellite phones and satellite communicators can range in price from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the features and capabilities of the device. Service plans also vary by provider and coverage area.
Which satellite network is best?
It’s less about which is best and more about which part of the globe you want to cover. All networks provide maps and coverage details. Keep in mind that not all networks offer global coverage.
Coverage can change regularly, so it’s a good idea to check this when you buy. This will help you get the right phone and network for your needs.
How reliable are SOS devices like the SPOT X or Garmin inReach?
In my personal experience, satellite phones are very reliable and are a great insurance policy for individuals heading to remote and unknown areas. Because they operate via satellite, they offer a wide range of coverage that cellular service cannot, especially in mountainous areas or areas with limited network coverage.
However, it is important to note that satellite devices have some limitations, such as slower data rates than smartphones. Therefore, it is important to keep this in mind when planning for emergencies or other urgent communication needs.