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When you venture beyond the reach of Wi-Fi and cellular networks, even the sleekest smartphone can quickly become little more than an expensive paperweight. This is where satellite phones and messengers come in. While still a niche technology for many, these devices can be essential tools for adventurers, remote workers, and anyone who needs to stay connected in the most isolated corners of the world. In some cases, they can even be lifesaving.
As someone who spends plenty of time off the grid, I’ve had the opportunity to test a wide variety of satellite communication devices in rugged, remote, and unpredictable environments. I’ve put these tools to the test in real-world scenarios and broken down the best options that truly shine when you’re beyond the reach of traditional networks.
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What is the best satellite phone right now?
If you’re keen on staying connected no matter where you roam, ZDNET has done extensive research and hands-on testing with some of the best satellite phones and gadgets on the market. My current top pick is the Starlink Mini, simply because it’s one of the cheapest ways to access the full internet when on the go.
Also: The best cheap phones you can buy: Expert tested
In our February update, we removed an outdated pick and updated the product descriptions of our top picks to the most recent information.
The best satellite phones and communicators of 2026
Why we like it: The biggest limitation of satellite phones and communicators is that you get drop-fed small amounts of bandwidth, and you pay big money for it. Additionally, what you can do with that data is very limited at times.
SpaceX Starlink Mini is different. The dish will set you back a fair chunk of change, although it’s cheaper than many satellite phones, but it will give you high-speed internet across most of the globe. With the Standby mode subscription, you can also get low-speed data access for a few dollars a month.
There’s a lot to like about the Starlink Mini package. You get true internet access, high-speed data transfer, and the ability to use it in a vehicle. The dish is also small, lightweight, and can even be run from a power bank. There are even and available.
Read the review: How I turned the Starlink Mini into an almost perfect off-grid internet solution
Who it’s for: This is for those who want high-speed access to the internet from anywhere at a fixed cost. It’s the perfect solution for vloggers, photographers, or videographers who need to send content to an editor, back up important files, or set up a camp that requires fast access to the entire internet.
Who should look elsewhere: If you value portability and want something more like a phone than a flat square of plastic, this is not for you.
Starlink Mini tech specs: Dimensions: 430mm x 334mm x 79mm | Weight: 1.53kg with kickstand and 15m cable | Services: Satellite internet | Battery life: N/A | Operating temperatures: -22°F to 122°F | IP Rating: IP66 | Price: $310
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Why we like it: Spot is a leading name in the world of satellite trackers and messengers, and their Spot X device is one I trust. Its physical keyboard is a standout feature, offering an intuitive and reliable way to communicate-perfect for those of us who prefer the precision and feel of tactile buttons over touchscreens.
This isn’t just a gadget; it’s a rugged and reliable tool designed for the outdoors. Built to MIL-STD-810G standards for shock resistance and boasting an IP67 ingress protection rating, the Spot X can handle tough conditions without breaking a sweat. In addition, the battery is good for up to 240 hours.
The Spot X also has a dedicated SOS button. In an emergency, this single button can connect you to rescue services-an absolute lifesaver when you’re off the grid and far from cellular coverage. As someone who spends a lot of time outdoors, I value the peace of mind this provides. In fact, this was the satellite messenger I took with me on a 10-day hike in northern Spain. It worked perfectly at tracing my location and sending that to family and friends.
I always attach mine to the chest strap of my backpack to ensure the best possible view of the sky.
Also: I held the world’s thinnest foldable phone, and it made my Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 look outdated
Who it’s for: Most messenger units rely on a smartphone connection or a poor on-screen keyboard for test entry, but this is the perfect device if you want a self-contained unit with a decent physical keyboard.
Who should look elsewhere: There are smaller satellite messengers out there, so if you’re a thru-hiker or traveling light, this might not be the best choice for you.
Spot X tech specs: Dimensions: 166mm × 38mm × 24mm | Weight: 198g | Services: Satellite SMS, automatic positioning, and SOS | Battery life: 240 hours | Operating temperatures: -4°F to 140°F | Durability: MIL-STD-810G for shock | IP Rating: IP67 | Price: $250
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Why we like it: If you’re looking to take communication to the next level by sharing photos and voice notes while out on your adventures, try the inReach Messenger Plus. This compact, puck-sized device supports emergency SOS messaging and lets you send photos and voice messages, keeping you connected no matter where you are.
Who it’s for: If you’re looking for a reliable way to stay connected off the grid with the ability to share photos and voice clips, this device is an excellent option. In addition to those features, it also includes essential tools like route tracking, messaging, and SOS capabilities to keep you safe and in touch during your adventures.
Who should look elsewhere: Upgrading from basic text messaging, as offered by the , to the ability to send multimedia significantly increases the cost. It adds $100 to the hardware price and also raises the cost of the running costs — each photo and voice note costs a $1.
Garmin inReach Messenger Plus tech specs: Dimensions: 78mm x 64mm x 23mm | Weight: 117.2g | Services: Satellite messaging, location tracking, SOS, and photo/voice message service | Battery life: Up to 25 days of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode | IP Rating: IP7X | Price: $400
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Why we like it: This looks like a standard travel router, but it also connects to the Iridium satellite network-a constellation of satellites that provides 100% global coverage, even in remote areas. You turn the Go! on, and it creates a Wi-Fi hotspot that allows smartphones, tablets, or laptops to connect and use the satellite network.
The Go! is designed for those who truly want to go off the grid. It’s rugged and built to withstand harsh environments, with excellent water and shock resistance. It also offers up to 15.5 hours of standby battery life and up to 5.5 hours of talk time.
Review: Iridium GO! Turn any smartphone into a satellite phone
Who it’s for: The Go! is ideal for people traveling to remote locations, where traditional communication methods are unavailable, but who don’t want high-speed internet access.
Who should look elsewhere: The hardware is expensive, coming with an $899 price tag. This pushes it out of the realm of something you use occasionally and into something that needs to pay for itself. The service plans are also pricey, running between $70 and $180 per month.
Iridium Go! tech specs: Dimensions: 114mm x 82mm x 32mm | Weight: 305g | Services: Satellite calls and satellite SMS | Battery life: Talk time: 5.5 hours, standby time: 15.5 hours | Operating temperatures: 50°F to 122°F | Durability: MIL-STD 810F | IP Rating: IP65 | Price: $945
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Why we like it: One of the standout features of the Garmin Mini 2 is the battery life. It offers up to 14 days in 10-minute tracking mode which is perfect for those extended treks when you’re not going to be able to recharge things.
It also has a monochrome display that’s easy to read in all lighting conditions, and it’s waterproof with an IPX7 rating. It has USB-C for easy charging and connectivity with other devices.
It’s a great self-contained unit for those who want to keep in touch when off-grid.
Review: Garmin inReach Mini 2 review
Who it’s for: The Garmin Mini 2 is a popular choice for anyone wanting an affordable, easy to use, yet reliable and robust satellite messenger. I’ve seen these in the hands of hikers, bikers, canoeists, outdoor workers, and more. It’s a great choice for when the smartphone isn’t enough.
Who should look elsewhere: Those looking for full internet access need to look at something like the Starlink Mini or the Iridium Go! Also, if photo and voice isn’t important, there are cheaper options.
Garmin inReach Mini 2 tech specs: Dimensions: 2.04 inches x 3.9 inches x 1.03 inches | Weight: 3.50 oz | Services: Satellite calls and satellite SMS | Operating temperatures: -4°F to 140°F | Battery life: Up to 14 days in 10-minute tracking mode | Durability: N/A | IP Rating: IPX7 | Price: $308
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Why we like it: The Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1 is a fully featured satellite phone with near-global coverage and good battery life.
The Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1 offers the ability to make and receive voice calls, send and get SMS, and track your position with GPS from anywhere on the globe.
It has an IK04 shock resistance rating, and the entire package is IP65 rated for dust- and waterproofing. The built-in lithium-ion battery offers eight hours of talk time and 160 hours on standby.
Who it’s for: It’s good to talk, and this is who this is aimed at — someone who just needs a phone that will work where cellphone coverage is non-existent.
Who should look elsewhere: If you’re someone who rarely uses the phone part of their smartphone, this is not for you. Also, the cost of the hardware and the plans are quite eye watering, so this isn’t something for the casual user.
Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1 tech specs: Dimensions: 16.9 cm x 7.65 cm x 2.9 cm | Weight: 318 g | Services: calling and text-to-text and text-to-email | Battery life: Eight hours talk time and 160 hours on standby | Operating temperatures: -4°F to 131°F | Durability: | IK04 | IP Rating: IP65 | Price: $789
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When determining which satellite phone is best for you, three factors come into play:
- What do you need the satellite phone for? Expeditions? Hiking? Emergency use?
- How much are you willing to spend? Prices start at just over $100 and quickly jump into the thousand-dollar range.
- The network. Not all satellite networks have global coverage.
For example, if you want an affordable communicator that has global coverage capabilities, the Garmin inReach Mini 2 fits the bill. Want a budget communicator option? The Motorola Defy fits the bill. Meanwhile, if you want a satellite phone that can switch from GSM to satellite easily, the Thuraya XT-LTE is a wise choice.
| Best satellite phone | Price | Where to Buy | Services Offered | Satellite Network | Global Coverage | Dimensions | Battery Life | Operating Temperatures | Durability | Ingress Protection |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starlink Mini | $310 | Amazon | Full internet access | Starlink | Starlink is available in over 100 countries, including the U.S., Canada, Australia, and most of Europe and South America. | 300mm x 250mm x 40mm | No built-in battery | -22°F to 122°F | N/A | IP67 |
| Iridium Go! | $945 | Walmart, Amazon | Satellite calls and SMS | Iridium | Global | 114mm x 82mm x 32mm | 5.5-hour talk time, 15.5-hour standby time | 50°F to 122°F | MIL-STD 810F | IP65 |
| Garmin inReach Messenger Plus | $400 | Amazon | Text messages, photos, and voice notes | Iridium | Global | 78mm x 64mm x 23mm | Up to 25 days | 50°F to 122°F | MIL-STD 810F | IP65 |
| Spot X | $250 | Amazon, REI | Satellite SMS, automatic positioning, and SOS | GlobalStar | Global | 166mm × 38mm × 24mm | 240 hours | -4°F to 140 °F | MIL-STD-810G | IP67 |
| Garmin inReach Mini 2 | $308 | Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy | Two-way messaging, interactive SOS, and TracBack routing | Iridium | Global | 2.04 in x 3.9 in x 1.03 in | Up to 14 days in 10-minute tracking mode | -4°F to 140°F | MIL-STD-810 | IPX7 |
| Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1 | $789 | Amazon | Voice calls, SMS, GPS tracking | Inmarsat | Nearly Global | 16.9 cm x 7.65 cm x 2.9 cm | 8-hour talk time, 160-hour standby time | -4°F to 131°F | IK04 shock resistance rating | IP65 |
Note: Prices and availability may vary.
Selecting the right satellite phone depends on your requirements and priorities. It’s essential to prioritize why you need the phone and your own budget. This will help you to select the best phone at the best price, and more importantly, you’ll have a communication tool that works where you are when you need it the most.
Below are the key considerations and how each phone aligns with specific purposes:
|
Choose this best satellite phone… |
If you want… |
|
Starlink Mini |
Access to the internet as a whole. Forget about just being able to send messages or access the weather, with a Starlink Mini and a view of the sky, you can get high-speed internet from over 100 countries. |
|
Iridium Go! |
Global coverage and the ability to create a hotspot for multiple devices. The Iridium Go! is the best choice because it offers satellite calls and SMS, has good battery life, and is MIL-STD 810F certified for durability. |
|
Garmin inReach Messenger Plus |
A small, tough messenger that can handle text, voice notes, and photos, and also be an emergency SOS device. this can be used with your smartphone or standalone in an emergency. |
|
Spot X |
Something for occasional use or emergency situations. The Spot X is a good choice because it has an SOS feature and is low-cost, but it has limited features and a small physical keyboard. |
|
Garmin inReach Mini 2 |
Occasional satellite communication and SOS support. The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is ideal because it is affordable, lightweight, and offers a range of features such as two-way messaging, interactive SOS, and TracBack routing. |
|
Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1 |
A classic satellite phone with global coverage. The Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1 offers voice calls, SMS, GPS tracking, and a programmable emergency assistance button. It is, however, big, bulky, and expensive. |
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Cost: Satellite communication tends to be more expensive than cellular services. The cost of the phone itself, along with the service plans and price per minute for calls, can be significantly higher.
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Size and Weight: Satellite phones are generally bulkier and heavier than modern smartphones, which might be a concern if you need to minimize their load.
-
Data Speeds: While some satellite phones offer data services, the speeds are usually much slower than what you’re accustomed to with 4G or 5G cellular networks. This may affect the usability of internet-dependent applications.
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Satellite Visibility: Different satellite systems, such as Iridium, Globalstar, and Inmarsat, offer different types of coverage of the globe, so bear this in mind when you’re choosing a system for your adventures.
When selecting the best satellite phone, I tested some of the devices and took into consideration other devices and various factors, such as price, availability, coverage, and use case. I carefully analyzed each device and weighed the pros and cons before arriving at my conclusions.
- Price: The price tag is always a factor, especially for those who are going to use their satellite phone only occasionally.
- Coverage: Not all satellite networks offer global coverage, so knowing this in advance is important.
- Use case: Are you looking for a traditional satellite phone, or do you want something more specialized, like a satellite hotspot or emergency beacon?
- Reviews: What are others saying about these devices? I looked at reviews on Amazon, Reddit, and a bunch of other outlets to get a consensus of the hardware and the satellite service.
- Hands-on experience: Over the years, I’ve used a number of these devices, sometimes briefly, sometimes for several weeks or months. This allows me to get a better understanding of the device.
Latest info on satellite phones
- At the end of July last year, Starlink suffered a rare issue that knocked tens of thousands of users offline for over two hours. While social media was awash with talk about hacking and solar flares, the real issue behind the downtime was rather prosaic — software failure.
A satellite phone is a mobile device that uses satellites to communicate instead of relying on cell towers. Its primary function is to make and receive calls and SMS messages from virtually anywhere in the world including remote areas without cellular coverage.
These devices, like satellite phones, connect to a constellation of satellites orbiting thousands of miles above the Earth, typically in low Earth orbit (LEO) or geostationary orbit (GEO). These satellites relay signals between the device and ground-based stations, which then connect the call to the regular phone or data network.
Some devices are standalone and feature built-in keyboards, while others rely on a connection to a smartphone for their keyboard and display.
Satellite phones and satellite communicators vary widely in price, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the device’s features and capabilities. For example, models with advanced features like GPS tracking, emergency SOS, and enhanced durability can cost between $800 and $1,500. Some devices, such as the Inmarsat IsatPhone 2, are available at lower prices, starting at $395 with a monthly plan.
Service plans also differ significantly in cost based on the provider and coverage area. Monthly plans can start as low as $49.95 for basic options, while prepaid plans may range from $100 to $5,000 depending on usage and duration. Additionally, renting satellite phones is an option, with prices starting at around $9 per day or $60 per week for short-term use.
No. Satellite communication units require a clear view of as much of the sky as possible, as they communicate directly with satellites orbiting the Earth.
You can use external antennas and repeaters if you require a more permanent solution for indoor use.
Yes, iPhones can use satellite communication, but this feature is currently limited to specific models and functionalities.
Starting with the iPhone 14 and later models, Apple introduced the ability to connect to satellites for communication when cellular and Wi-Fi networks are unavailable. This feature is primarily designed for emergency situations and allows users to:
- Send Emergency SOS messages via satellite to contact emergency services.
- Share their location with friends and family using the Find My app when off the grid.
- Use satellite messaging for roadside assistance in certain regions.
Satellite communication on iPhones is currently limited to text-based messaging and location sharing. It does not support voice calls or internet browsing like traditional satellite phones.
A satellite phone cannot fully replace a smartphone due to significant differences in functionality, usability, and cost. While satellite phones are invaluable in specific scenarios, they are not designed to serve as everyday communication devices for the general population.
The best satellite network depends on your specific needs, such as global coverage, data speed, reliability, and cost. Here’s a comparison of Iridium, Starlink, Inmarsat, and Globalstar based on their strengths and weaknesses:
Iridium
- Coverage: Iridium offers truly global coverage, including the polar regions, thanks to its constellation of 66 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites.
- Reliability: It is highly reliable for voice and text communication, even in remote areas. It is also widely used for critical communications like maritime and aviation safety systems.
- Data Speed: Iridium’s data speeds are slower compared to Starlink and Inmarsat, but it excels in low-bandwidth applications like messaging and location tracking.
- Best Use Cases: Ideal for polar expeditions, global travelers, and mission-critical communications where reliability is key.
- Cost: Iridium devices and service plans are generally more expensive than Globalstar and Inmarsat.
Starlink
- Coverage: Starlink provides high-speed internet via a growing constellation of LEO satellites. However, its coverage is not yet global and may exclude certain remote or polar areas.
- Reliability: While Starlink offers impressive data speeds and low latency, it is less stable for critical communications compared to Iridium and Inmarsat. Geofencing restrictions could also limit its use in certain areas.
- Data Speed: Starlink is the leader in data speed, offering broadband-like speeds suitable for streaming, video conferencing, and other high-bandwidth applications.
- Best Use Cases: Ideal for users who need high-speed internet in rural or semi-remote areas, such as remote workers or maritime users near populated regions.
- Cost: Starlink is relatively affordable for high-speed internet, but its hardware and subscription costs are higher than basic satellite communication services.
Inmarsat
- Coverage: Inmarsat uses geostationary satellites, providing excellent coverage outside the polar regions. However, it lacks coverage in extreme northern and southern latitudes.
- Reliability: Inmarsat is a stable and dependable platform, widely used for maritime and aviation purposes.
- Data Speed: Inmarsat offers faster data speeds than Iridium, making it suitable for light email, web browsing, and other moderate data needs.
- Best Use Cases: Ideal for commercial operations, maritime users, and high-speed data users outside polar regions.
- Cost: Inmarsat devices and plans are generally more affordable than Iridium but more expensive than Globalstar.
Globalstar
- Coverage: Globalstar has limited coverage compared to Iridium and Inmarsat, as its satellites do not provide global reach. It is best suited for users in North America, Europe, and parts of South America.
- Reliability: While affordable, Globalstar’s reliability is lower than Iridium and Inmarsat, especially in remote or critical situations.
- Data Speed: Globalstar offers slower data speeds compared to Inmarsat and Starlink, making it less suitable for high-bandwidth applications.
- Best Use Cases: Best for basic messaging, location tracking, and voice communication within its coverage area.
- Cost: Globalstar is the most affordable option, making it attractive for casual users who don’t need global coverage.
Choose Iridium if you need global coverage and reliable communication in remote or polar regions.
Choose Starlink if you need high-speed internet in rural or semi-remote areas and can tolerate potential coverage limitations.
Choose Inmarsat for high-speed data and reliable communication outside polar regions, especially for maritime or aviation use.
Choose Globalstar if you need an affordable option for basic communication within its limited coverage area.
Not all do. In fact, coverage varies considerably between the networks.
- Starlink coverage is available in over 100 countries. Coverage map can be found on the company’s website.
- Iridium offers global coverage. Live map of satellite locations is available on Iridiumwhere.com.
- Globalstar coverage maps can be found on the company’s website.
- Inmarsat has nearly global coverage. Maps can be found on the company’s website.
Satellite phones, like the Thuraya XT-LITE, offer features that you typically find on cellular phones, such as calling and messaging. While the Thuraya XT-LITE does not offer global coverage and both North and South America are not covered, it has a unique ability to toggle between a GSM network and satellite communications. This means that you don’t have to worry about dropped calls in remote locations.
Plus, the phone only requires one SIM card. Additionally, it has a rugged body, making it a durable option for outdoor adventures. Keep in mind that satellite phones still have drawbacks compared to smartphones, such as bulkiness and limited data rates.
Based on my personal experience, satellite phones are highly reliable and serve as a great insurance policy if you’re heading out into remote and uncharted territories. Since they operate on satellite communication, they offer a wide range of coverage that is not available with cellular service, especially in mountainous regions or areas with limited network coverage.
Satellite devices do have some limitations, such as slower communication speeds than smartphones. It’s important to keep this in mind when planning for emergency situations or other time-sensitive communication needs.
Latest updates
- In our February update, we removed an outdated pick and updated the product descriptions of our top picks to the most recent information. We also added the latest news on satellite phones.
Other satellite phones worth considering
The Iridium Extreme 9575 satellite phone handset, plus 600 minutes, is valid for 365 days. This is a fantastic deal for a satellite phone.
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The Zoleo Satellite Communicator is a great alternative satellite phone to consider because it allows two-way global messaging in a compact design.
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The Garmin GPSMAP 67i is a rugged handheld GPS receiver with built-in inReach communication technology. It comes with satellite imagery and topo maps preloaded, as well as an altimeter, barometer, and 3-axis electronic compass sensors.
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