Top 7+ Best Satellite Phones in 2024

Satellite phones allow you to live in remote areas and make calls anywhere. We’ve reviewed the best satellite phones to help you plan off-grid adventures.

While satellite text messaging has become a popular tool for remote communication, a reliable satellite phone still has a place in your exploration toolkit. Subscription plans have become incredibly affordable, with some offering free calls.

Top 7 Best Satellite Phones in 2024

Satellite phones operate using signals from satellites orbiting the Earth, so they don’t have to rely on ground-based cell towers like your everyday smartphone. If your satellite phone has a clear line of sight to the sky, you can receive and communicate with people in even the most remote areas.

Satellite phones fill the communication gap when infrastructure is missing, damaged, or destroyed. They’re rugged enough to be taken into dangerous environments, even war zones, to coordinate rescue missions or communicate with crews on the ground.

Small, lightweight, and highly reliable, satellite phones are one of the first things people consider when venturing into isolated areas, especially when travelling alone, for the peace of mind that they can contact friends, family, or emergency services in the event of an unexpected situation.

1. Iridium Extreme 9575

The best satellite phone for most people’s needs is the Iridium Extreme, the latest phone in the Iridium catalogue. It offers satisfactory voice clarity and a very high level of durability. It is reliable, especially in high-stress environments where GPS tracking is important and an emergency SOS button may be needed.

This phone takes advantage of Iridium’s excellent global coverage, including the polar regions. It offers several features, such as programming emergency contacts via the built-in SOS button and turning on SOS mode.

When the user turns on SOS mode, the phone broadcasts an emergency message with GPS information every five minutes, making it easy to find the user. For more rugged adventurers, the IP65 waterproof rating will show you just how rugged this satellite phone is.

These features come at a steep price. We were also disappointed that the battery only lasts four hours, but users should expect it to last much longer in a backpack or pocket. However, anyone who regularly ventures outdoors or works in areas without cellular service will find that a high-end satellite phone’s peace of mind is worth the price.

The 9575 Extreme PTT is a push-to-talk version of this device, commonly used by groups and teams that want to communicate via satellite.

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2. Thuraya X5-Touch

You don’t necessarily have to give up smart features to use a satellite phone. For example, the Thuraya X5-Touch is an Android phone with built-in satellite connectivity. This phone is five years old, so don’t expect any of the fancy features you’ll find on modern Android phones.

However, you can instantly download mobile apps and interact with the phone via the smart display instead of physical buttons. The satellite functionality is solid, too. The phone is compatible with Thuraya’s satellite network, which provides good coverage across most of Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and most of Africa except for South America.

The network doesn’t cover the Americas, parts of Russia, or Poland, so you’ll want to check Thuraya’s coverage map before buying this phone.

The device has a good battery life, with 11 hours of talk time. It also has a removable battery, common on satellite phones but rare on smartphones. Its IP67 rating means it’s rugged enough for most people.

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3. Iridium 9555

While it’s one of the most expensive options for voice calls, the 9555 is still a bargain when considering the full-service plan. The Iridium 10 monthly plan offers 10 minutes of voice calls per month for $65, but considering that incoming calls and text messages are free, the value is well worth it. It’s not cheap, but it’s half the price it was a few years ago.

Aside from the wide coverage, the main reason to pay a premium for Iridium is the reception quality. Our tester used the Iridium 9555 from Nepal to call a doctor in the U.S. Just 1,200 miles abU.S.us, the Iridium LEO satellites provide crystal-clear communications across the globe.

The Iridium 9555 is convenient because of its rugged construction and compact size, even if it sacrifices battery life. With a talk time of only four hours, a second battery is a must. We also like the ability to easily receive emergency notifications using the programmable SOS button connected to the GEOS dispatch centre. Best of all, the audio quality is excellent. We had a long conversation with a mechanic in Chile, and I could hear every word he said clearly.

The downside of LEO satellite reception is most noticeable in valleys and canyons where visibility to the satellites overhead is impaired. Dropped calls are not uncommon, as the satellites drift across the sky and sometimes fall out of range.

Nevertheless, Iridium makes a great phone backed by an impressive network. If you’re looking for a satellite phone that works anywhere and has years of great support, the Iridium 9555 is our top recommendation today.

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4. Thuraya XT-PRO Satellite Phone

The Thuraya XT-PRO is the first satellite phone to feature built-in GPS, Beidou and Glonass for maximum flexibility in all regions. It features the largest display of any satellite phone and comes with reinforced Gorilla Glass for harsh environments.

The screen is designed to be glare-free, providing optimal visibility even in bright sunlight, and a brightness sensor automatically adjusts the display’s backlight. Thuraya’s XT-PRO is the world’s most advanced satellite phone. Designed for professionals, this rugged and robust satellite handset has a long battery life to keep you connected wherever you are.

With the Thuraya XT-PRO, you can make and send calls in satellite mode, send and receive emails using your satellite data connection, or browse the web with a connected laptop or PC. There’s a dedicated SOS button with advanced navigation and tracking capabilities in case of an emergency.

Stay connected wherever you are in Thuraya’s extensive coverage area, no matter how remote your location is. Thuraya’s comprehensive satellite network provides reliable, clear and uninterrupted communications in over 160 countries across Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia.

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5. Garmin GPSMAP 66i

The Garmin GPSMAP 66i is a hiker’s phone. Its built-in terrain mapping allows users to download hiking trails, set waypoints, and find nearby parking. The interface is relatively easy to use, and the device promises a long battery life of up to 200 hours for days on the trail.

The Garmin GPSMAP 66i can’t make phone calls. It’s also relatively heavy and bulky. Although it’ll fit perfectly in most users’ backpacks or straps, it weighs more. At around $600, it’s more expensive than the Garmin inReach Mini 2, which doesn’t have mapping capabilities. But if you need a satellite device with mapping capabilities, this is the one to get.

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6. Thuraya SatSleeve+ Satellite smartphone

The perfect blend of mobility and simplicity, the Thuraya SatSleeve+ is the fastest way to turn your phone into a satellite smartphone. The Thuraya SatSleeve+ supports the communication needs of all smartphone users, from frequent travellers and adventurous explorers to corporate and NGO users.

Access phone calls, email, instant messages and popular social media apps in satellite mode across Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia.

The SatSleeve+ comes with a universal adapter inside the package and is compatible with a wide range of iOS and Android models.

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7. Inmarsat IsatPhone 2

The IsatPhone 2 is Inmarsat’s flagship satellite phone. It offers excellent voice clarity and the longest-lasting battery on the market. The Inmarsat IsatPhone 2  consistently ranks as the best value in satellite communication. Third-party retailers regularly offer free calls with annual contracts, and our free phone, which has been with us for a year, provides 70 minutes of talk time per month for just $60.

The solid build quality of this device is the result of excellent engineering and craftsmanship. It’s a favourite among boaters, yachters, and sailors. On the water, this phone rarely drops calls. The IsatPhone 2 is water-resistant, and while it’s not completely waterproof, it can withstand extended rain and high humidity. Inmarsat offers affordable satellite minutes and flexible monthly plans.

Our only complaints are the audio quality and slight lag, which are annoying. However impressive the signal was, it bounced off a small satellite 32,000 miles away.

If you want high-quality satellite phone coverage throughout your expedition without breaking the bank, the Inmarsat IsatPhone 2 is our pick.

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Satellite Phones Buying Guide

1. Network Coverage and Satellite Connectivity

Buying a satellite phone is to get connectivity wherever you are. However, not all satellite phones offer the same range. This is because different phones utilize different satellite constellations for coverage. The most common satellite network for satellite phones is Iridium, which offers complete coverage worldwide, including the polar regions. Other networks don’t provide as much coverage.

Before buying a satellite phone, it works where you’re travelling cellular networks; you’ll need to pay a monthly fee to use the satellite network your phone is connected to. It’s important to understand your key requirements when deciding where to use the device and which phone and service plan to choose.

2. Portability

Satellite phones are typically slightly larger than consumer-level smartphones. They’re often more ruggedly built and require additional components to connect to the satellite network. Size and weight are key considerations, especially if you’re a backpacker or plan on carrying your phone in your pocket.

3. Battery Life

You’ll want a relatively long battery life device for long-term satellite coverage. No matter what type of device you buy, you can manage battery life by turning it on only when you need it. Some satellite phones typically list talk time between 4 and 13 hours, depending on the model.

Other phones typically list standby times of at least 100 hours. Most satellite phones have removable batteries, so you can bring an extra battery if needed.

Also, consider bringing a portable power bank or charger to extend battery life. Make sure it’s compatible with the satellite phone’s charging connector.

Power banks can theoretically provide as much power as you need with solar or crank chargers, but they’re not a quick-charging solution. They shouldn’t be relied on for consistent connectivity.

4. Emergency features

For many, the primary reason to buy a satellite phone is for emergencies. This ensures the phone’s emergency features are easy to use and work as expected. Most satellite phones have an emergency SOS button that will alert emergency services, pre-programmed contacts, or suppose.

Suppose your device has built-in GPS, which almost always d. In that case, it can send location information along with the message, making it easier for emergency services to find you and provide assistance.

Some features aren’t necessarily for communication but can help in an emergency. Some satellite phones and devices offer GPS navigation, which can help you find your way if you’re not sure where you’re going or if you lose connection to your smartphone’s more powerful mapping tools.

You can also use GPS tracking to track your path and find your way back by calling 911 for emergency assistance. Other useful emergency tools include a built-in flashlight and weather alerts. The latter can alert you to impending storms and severe weather events that you might not know about if you’re off the grid.

5. Weatherability

Satellite phones are typically built for outdoor adventures and often need to be more rugged than your average cell phone. There are two ruggedness ratings to look out for. The first is the I.P. (ingress protection) I.P.ting, which has two numbers.

The first indicates dust resistance, and the second indicates water resistance. The higher the number, the more resistant the device is to dust and water.

Most satellite phones offer a minimum IP65 rating, which means they are protected from dust and splashes from all angles. Devices rated IPX7 can be completely submerged in water, while devices rated IPX8 or higher offer greater protection against water damage.

Just because a device is rated to withstand water doesn’t mean it can be used underwater or will still function after prolonged immersion.

6. Durability

The durability rating is the MIL-STD or Military Standard rating. Most satellite phones offer a variation of the MIL-STD-810 rating, which means they have been tested for 26 drops, high and low temperatures, humidity, and more.

7. Ongoing costs

Satellite phones and devices like smartphones require a constant connection to the satellite network. This usually means paying a monthly or annual subscription fee to use the provider’s satellite network. Subscription fees can range from $15 monthly for a basic phone to $60 or more for a fully-featured satellite phone.

Prepaid plans are available if you plan to use your satellite phone or device only for emergencies. In some cases, this can cost up to $200 for 100 minutes, but in the long run, it’s cheaper than a monthly subscription. Remember that you may have to use the minutes within a certain period before they expire.

FAQs

Are Satellite Phones Worth It?

There is still a definite need for satellite phones today, and the further you get from civilization, the greater the need. Satellite messengers work well for recreational use on weekends or week-long trips. Still, expeditions require a higher level of communication capability, and if moving information is essential, you need a device that can carry a lot at once.

Being able to supply means you can convey information faster, but there is also less confusion and the ability to ask for clarification quickly. This can be the difference between getting the full weather forecast for the rest of the week or a condensed summary that can fit in 180 characters.

Finally, the ability to hear the voices of your loved ones is a huge draw on long-haul travel and can be worth it in its own right.

What should you look for when buying a satellite phone?

When looking for a satellite phone, consider where you will use it. This is the most important aspect of a satellite phone; if it doesn’t have service, you’ll carry around a useless brick. Iridium is currently the most comprehensive satellite phone service available and is a safe choice if you travel the world for adventure.

If you’re heading overseas but don’t want to become a polar explorer, an Inmarsat device can save you significant money and still provide a high-quality audio connection.

Why are some satellite phones illegal?

Satellite phones are illegal in many countries, as they are believed to be used by armed groups or to transmit sensitive information collected through espionage. This includes China, Pakistan, Cuba, Russia, Chad, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Libya, parts of Nigeria, and India. Specific laws and regulations vary (for example, you can get permission to use a satellite phone in India and Cuba, but you will be arrested without question in Libya or Chad).

For safety, check with the embassy of the country you plan to travel to with your satellite phone to ensure you are not inadvertently breaking any laws (or well-established traditions).

Can a satellite phone lose its signal?

Like any other wireless device, your reception is only as good as your connection, and satellite phones are direct-connected devices, so they can lose their signal as the satellite they are connected to moves in orbit.

There are several ways to do this. First, make sure you have a clear horizon. Either point your antenna towards the satellite or if your phone hosts an eCompass feature like an Inmarsat device, use that to point it towards the satellite.

Iridium satellites are constantly in orbit and connected so you may experience a few seconds of reduced service, but it usually recovers. Inmarsat satellites, on the other hand, are geosynchronous, so they are a bit harder to connect to, but once connected, it’s hard to lose signal.

How far do satellite phones reach?

Satellite phones have an impressive range of where to make a call and how far the signal travels. The low-Earth orbit satellites in the Iridium constellation orbit around 500 miles from Earth, while the Globalstar satellites orbit around 900 miles away.

However, the geosynchronous satellites in the Inmarsat system are a whopping 22,000 miles away, which is a long way for a signal to travel twice!

Why do people need satellite phones?

Unlike traditional cell phones that rely on cell towers, satellite phones work anywhere. Outside of urban areas, only satellite networks provide reliable communications. We have satellite phones that work in even the most remote regions.

They provide reliable voice, text, GPS, and SOS. They are extremely effective at staying connected wherever you are, whether at sea, on expeditions, on long hikes, at remote work sites, in the mountains, in the desert, or even during natural disasters.

Should I rent a satellite phone or own one?

If you need a satellite phone for more than a month out of the year or several times a year, you may want to consider buying one instead. Renting is better if you only need a satellite phone for a week or two.

How quickly can I get my satellite phone?

If a major carrier offers this service, you can have your satellite phone delivered the next day. We can also provide the device the same day by courier in urgent and critical situations.

Is a satellite phone worth the cost of a service plan?

Satellite phone plans are typically much more expensive than traditional phone plans. How you assess value depends on what you plan to do with your phone. If you plan to use your device to chat with others regularly, you’ll likely need a plan that allows you to make phone calls.

However, if you plan to use your device only in emergencies, you may only need a small data allowance to send texts or emergency messages. To stay connected in an emergency, you can buy a basic satellite communicator, one of the least expensive solutions, such as a Garmin In-Reach Mini device.

Also, not all constellations have a global footprint, so you must consider where you need coverage.

How can I check call quality before buying a satellite phone?

It’s nearly impossible to judge the call quality of a satellite phone before you buy it. Fortunately, most modern devices these days have good call quality, so no matter what you buy, if you can make calls, you’ll probably be able to do so pretty well. Battery life, ruggedness, and ease of use are essential.

How much does a satellite phone cost?

Satellite phones start at a few hundred dollars. Mid-priced models cost around $1,000, while high-end phones cost thousands. You’ll also need to pay a monthly contract fee to maintain an active connection to the provider’s satellite network. Subscription prices vary but average around $50 to $60 monthly.

Some providers offer prepaid options, which are more expensive but don’t tie you to a monthly subscription if you reserve your satellite phone only for emergencies. Prepaid plans vary widely, but paying $100 for 100 minutes of talk time is not uncommon. However, this is often for a single day. If you want long-term prepaid access (say, a month), you’ll pay around $200 for 100 minutes.

Are there any downsides to using a satellite phone?

Satellite phones are designed to do a specific job: connect you to the wider world without cellular service. As such, they are more expensive and far less capable than your average smartphone in terms of smart features. They also have weaker battery life and data speeds that are much slower than the more consumer-focused data networks.

Another consideration is that if you only want a satellite phone for emergencies, there are cheaper solutions, such as Apple’s iPhone SoS feature. The iPhone 14 and 15 can connect to a satellite when cellular connectivity isn’t available. However, the SoS feature can only send texts and location data. You will need a dedicated satellite phone to make calls via satellite.

What are rollover minutes?

Rollover is the option to roll over unused minutes from one month to the next and accumulate unused minutes for future use. This option costs $10 per month.

What is a U.S. phone number?

SatelliU.S. phones use international phone numbers, and U.S. mobile phone users U.S.ot have their carriers enable international calling. U.S. phone numbers redirect to the satellite phone, allowing anyone to call for free but consuming minutes from your plan. This option is only available on a monthly service plan and costs $10.

Can I send and receive text messages with my satellite phone?

Yes, satellite phones work well with SMS services and can send and receive text messages. Satellite phone providers also have dedicated pages where anyone can use their service to send free SMS to their satellite phone.

What is the difference between a satellite phone and a cell phone?

Cell phones do not use satellites but rely on cellular towers for signals. Satellite phones are not limited to a short range of cellular networks and provide global coverage at the same rates anywhere. Cell phones are limited to the coverage of local cellular networks and incur additional charges when using other cellular networks, such as roaming services.

Are satellite phones still available?

There are still a variety of satellite phones available, and they offer a variety of features that you can access. Cheap phones like the Globalstar GSP-1700 don’t offer the widest range, and there are certain places on Earth where you can’t receive calls on the Globalstar network.

Can you call 911 from a satellite phone?

Yes, you can call 911 from any satellite phone, and it will connect you to local emergency services.

What are good satellite phones for international travellers?

The Iridium Extreme 9575 and Inmarsat Isatphone 2 are good devices for international travelers. They feature clear voice, GPS coordinate transmission, a durable and rugged design, long battery life, and an SOS function in an emergency.

Can I use the Internet on my satellite phone?

While many satellite phones offer data services, few offer Internet access, and most have limited bandwidth.

What are satellite phones used for?

Satellite phones have a wide range of applications. Because they are the only way to communicate long distances beyond cellular and VHF ranges, satellite phones are used in all global industries, including travel, navigation, fishing, remote exploration, mining, oil exploration, remote construction, emergency response, aviation, and transportation.

Can I make landline calls from my satellite phone?

Yes, you can make and connect to both landlines and cellular phones with a satellite phone.

Are satellite phones legal in the United States?

Yes, satellite phones are legal in the United States and most other countries. However, in some parts of the world, governments can confiscate satellite phones or even arrest people for possessing them.

Do satellite phones work anywhere?

Satellite phones work anywhere with a clear view of the sky. Since they operate via satellites high in Earth’s orbit, they require an unobstructed view to function properly. Satellites provide global coverage from polar regions to polar regions across mountainous areas, deserts, and oceans.

Why are satellite phones so expensive?

Satellite networks are expensive to operate and require expensive logistics and technology to operate the satellites properly and accurately. Therefore, satellite communication technology is still more costly than usual.

Can I track my satellite phone?

Yes, you can track your satellite phone. The same technology that enables global connectivity also allows someone with a satellite network and the right tools to determine your phone’s location.

How much does an international call cost?

Satellite phones do not incur roaming charges. You can call any mobile or landline worldwide for the same flat rate.

Do satellite phones work at sea?

Yes, both Inmarsat and Iridium satellite phones offer excellent coverage at sea.

Do satellite phones require a SIM card?

Satellite devices use a SIM card specific to your device, plan, and calling provider. Some plans may require a special SIM card to communicate with the satellite network (e.g., U.S. phone number plans).

Are satellite phones secure?

Yes, satellite phones are more secure than traditional mobile phones. It is difficult to intercept the signal, and many satellite phone service providers use strong encryption to protect your communications.

Do I get charged for incoming calls and text messages?

No, incoming calls and text messages are free on all service plans you choose.

How long can I use my satellite phone?

LEO-based satellite phones with large-capacity batteries typically last up to 30 hours on standby. However, regarding talk time, the phone with the same specifications and capacity can last up to 3.2 hours. The location also matters.

Can I use the Internet with my satellite phone?

Satellite phones do not provide enough data connectivity to use Internet services. We recommend a satellite Internet device such as the BGAN Explorer 510 or the IsatHub Isavi for Internet use.

Can I travel with my satellite phone?

Satellite phones can be used anywhere, so you don’t have to worry about coverage while purchasing an international phone or travelling between countries. Some countries have laws regulating satellite phone use, but they are generally not popular travel destinations.

Can I use my satellite phone indoors?

Satellite phones require open space and clear skies to operate. However, satellite phone accessories such as antennas and docking stations allow them to operate indoors.

Can I track and monitor my satellite phone?

Tracking and monitoring a satellite phone is very difficult. It is virtually impossible to intercept a satellite phone because the signal travels vertically into the sky, unlike a cell phone, which travels horizontally towards the cell tower and can be intercepted and decoded through this transmission.

Do satellite phones need towers?

Satellite phones do not require any cell towers to operate. Instead, handheld satellite phones receive signals from low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites.

How does the SOS emergency feature work?

When you press the SOS button, a pre-configured notification sequence is activated. This sequence contacts the GEOS 911 service and transmits your GPS coordinates. GEOS will immediately call you and attempt to coordinate a rescue mission to your location. If the sequence is pre-configured, your family will be notified of your situation.

How far can satellite phones reach?

Satellite phone systems use satellites in geosynchronous equatorial (GEO) or low-Earth orbit (LEO). GEO satellites orbit approximately 36,000 km (22,400 miles) above the Earth’s equator and maintain a fixed position in the sky, allowing for nearly continuous global coverage with just a few satellites.

Are satellite phones allowed in the UAE?

Satellite phones are legal in the UAE under Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) guidelines.

Do satellite phones have IMEIs?

The Broadband Global Area Network (BGAN), Iridium, and Thuraya satellite phone networks use IMEI numbers on their transceiver devices and SIM cards, much like GSM phones.

Can I make calls with a satellite phone?

Using satellite infrastructure, satellite phone users can make voice calls, send messages, and access data services virtually anywhere, including in remote areas without traditional cellular service.

How do satellite phones work?

Satellite phones connect via satellites located in low or high Earth orbit. This eliminates the need for cell towers and provides global satellite network coverage. Additionally, users pay the same per minute or text message rate anywhere globally.

Conclusion

A satellite phone can be important if you regularly venture into places without cellular service. The best option should be to support a large satellite network with coverage wherever needed. It should also provide emergency features that allow for quick access when needed.

The above-mentioned best satellite phones support excellent satellite networks and useful emergency features. With the right satellite phone, you should be able to connect to the outside world no matter where you are.