Best Satellite Phone for Remote Locations in 2024

Satellite phones have become an essential tool for adventurers, hikers, and travelers who venture into remote areas without cellular coverage. These phones use satellites orbiting the earth to communicate with other devices, making them ideal for people who need to stay connected in areas where traditional cell phones don’t work.

When choosing the best satellite phone, there are several critical factors to consider. First, you’ll want to consider the coverage area of the phone. Some satellite phones only work in certain regions, while others provide global coverage. Second, you’ll want to consider the battery life of the phone. Since satellite phones rely on battery power, it’s essential to choose a device with a long battery life, so you don’t have to worry about running out of power when you need it most.

Another critical factor to consider when choosing the best satellite phone is the price. Satellite phones can be expensive, so it’s essential to choose a device that fits within your budget. Additionally, you’ll want to consider the size and weight of the phone since you’ll likely be carrying it with you on your adventures.

After researching and testing various satellite phones, we have identified the top options for those in search of the best satellite phone. In the following sections, we will discuss the features, pros, and cons of each device to help you make an informed decision.

Best Satellite Phones

As avid outdoor enthusiasts and travelers, we understand the importance of staying connected no matter where you are. Whether you’re exploring remote areas or need a reliable communication device during emergencies, a satellite phone is an essential tool to have. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best satellite phones on the market that offer reliable connectivity, durability, and ease of use. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time user, our list has something for everyone.

BlueCosmo Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1 Satellite Phone Kit

If you’re looking for a reliable satellite phone, the BlueCosmo Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1 Satellite Phone Kit is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Global Coverage: No Roaming Charges – Make and receive voice calls, SMS, track your position with GPS from anywhere on the globe.
• Complete Kit: Includes Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1 satellite phone handset, Lithium-ion battery, International AC wall charger, Automobile DC charger, Holster with belt clip, Hands free earpiece, Lanyard, USB cable, USB thumb drive with documentation, Quick start guide, SIM card and 18 month warranty.
• Durable Design: Withstands dirt, dust and jets of water from every direction; IK04 shock resistance rating and an ingress rating of IP65; Operational temperature range of -20°C to 55°C.

Cons

• Limited Battery Life: The phone has 8 hours talk time and 160 hours standby, which may not be sufficient for extended use in remote areas.
• Limited Features: The phone does not have advanced features like internet browsing or video calling.
• Limited Storage: The phone has only 8GB of storage, which may not be sufficient for storing large files.

We recently tested the BlueCosmo Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1 Satellite Phone Kit and found it to be a reliable and durable device. The phone’s global coverage and complete kit make it a great option for those who need to stay connected while traveling in remote areas.

The phone’s durable design ensures that it can withstand tough conditions, including dirt, dust, and water. Additionally, the phone’s IK04 shock resistance rating and ingress rating of IP65 make it a durable option for those who need a phone that can withstand rough handling.

However, the phone’s limited battery life may be a drawback for some users. With only 8 hours of talk time and 160 hours of standby time, the phone may not be suitable for extended use in remote areas. Additionally, the phone’s limited features and storage may not be sufficient for some users.

Overall, the BlueCosmo Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1 Satellite Phone Kit is a reliable and durable option for those who need to stay connected while traveling in remote areas. However, users should be aware of the phone’s limited battery life and features before making a purchase.

ZOLEO Satellite Communicator

If you’re looking for a reliable satellite communicator that can keep you connected even in the most remote areas, the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator is an excellent choice.

Pros

• With the ZOLEO device, you can stay connected with the free ZOLEO app on your smartphone, making it easy to send and receive messages, even when you’re outside cell coverage.
• The ZOLEO Satellite Communicator offers seamless coverage wherever you go, transmitting over the lowest cost network available (satellite, cellular, or Wi-Fi).
• In case of an emergency, the ZOLEO device offers an SOS alerting feature that sends your GPS coordinates to the expert 24/7 emergency monitoring service.

Cons

• The ZOLEO Satellite Communicator requires a monthly subscription, which starts at $20, and you’ll need to pay extra for additional satellite messages or add-ons like automatic location sharing.
• While the ZOLEO device offers a familiar text messaging experience to and from any SMS text number, email address or another ZOLEO app user, it doesn’t offer voice calling capabilities.
• The ZOLEO device is relatively expensive compared to other satellite communicators on the market.

If you’re an avid traveler or outdoor enthusiast, the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator is an excellent investment to keep you connected in even the most remote areas. With its rugged design, GPS location-awareness, and Iridium satellite-based technology, the ZOLEO device is a reliable choice for anyone who needs to stay connected while off the grid.

The ZOLEO device offers a range of features, including emergency alerting and medical assistance, check-in and location sharing, and a dedicated SMS phone number and email address. Plus, with the ZOLEO app, you can easily send and receive messages, even when you’re outside cell coverage.

One downside of the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator is that it requires a monthly subscription, which can add up over time. However, with plans starting at just $20, it’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with staying connected in remote areas.

Overall, we highly recommend the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator for anyone who needs a reliable satellite communicator that can keep them connected in even the most remote areas.

BlueCosmo Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone Bundle – Only Truly Global Satellite Phone – Voice, SMS Text Messaging – Prepaid SIM Card Included – Online Activation – 24/7

If you’re looking for a satellite phone that can provide reliable service anywhere in the world, the BlueCosmo Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone Bundle is worth considering.

Pros

• The Iridium network provides high-quality voice and data connections over the planet’s entire surface, including across oceans, airways, and polar regions.
• The Iridium 9555 is one of the smallest phones Iridium has ever made, making it easy to carry around.
• The phone comes with a comprehensive kit that includes everything you need for global communication.

Cons

• The phone’s reception can be poor in some areas, especially in wooded areas.
• The phone is expensive compared to other satellite phones on the market.
• The battery life is relatively short, with only 3 hours of talk time and 30 hours of standby time.

We have used the BlueCosmo Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone Bundle in remote areas and found that the Iridium network provides reliable service even in areas where other satellite phones struggle to connect. The phone is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry around, and the comprehensive kit that comes with the phone includes everything you need for global communication.

However, the phone’s reception can be poor in some areas, especially in wooded areas, and the battery life is relatively short compared to other satellite phones on the market. Additionally, the phone is expensive, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.

Overall, if you need a satellite phone that can provide reliable service anywhere in the world, the BlueCosmo Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone Bundle is worth considering. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option or need a phone with longer battery life, you may want to consider other options.

AT-amp;T ML17939 2-Line Corded Telephone with Digital Answering System and Caller ID/Call Waiting, Black/Silver With Answering System

We recommend purchasing the AT-amp;T ML17939 2-Line Corded Telephone with Digital Answering System and Caller ID/Call Waiting for small offices or home use.

Pros

• The 2-line operation allows for dialing and receiving calls on two different phone lines, making it ideal for small offices or home use.
• The digital answering system can record up to 12 minutes of incoming messages, outgoing announcements, and memos.
• The caller ID/call waiting feature allows you to view the name, number, time, and date of incoming calls at a glance, even those on call waiting.

Cons

• The phone may not be suitable for larger office settings.
• Some DSL subscribers may need to use a DSL filter.
• The phone requires three AA batteries, which are not included.

The AT-amp;T ML17939 is a great choice for small offices or home use. With its 2-line operation, you can easily dial and receive calls on two different phone lines. The digital answering system can record up to 12 minutes of incoming messages, outgoing announcements, and memos, making it easy to keep track of important calls. The caller ID/call waiting feature allows you to view the name, number, time, and date of incoming calls at a glance, even those on call waiting.

While the phone may not be suitable for larger office settings, it is perfect for small offices or home use. Some DSL subscribers may need to use a DSL filter, but this is a minor inconvenience. The phone requires three AA batteries, which are not included, but this is a small price to pay for the convenience of having a corded telephone with digital answering system and caller ID/call waiting. Overall, we highly recommend the AT-amp;T ML17939 for small offices or home use.

ZOLEO Satellite Communicator

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable satellite communicator, the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator is a great option.

Pros

• The ZOLEO device links with the free ZOLEO app on your smartphone to keep you connected when outside cell coverage
• ZOLEO extends your messaging coverage to everywhere on earth transmitting over the lowest cost network available
• Your assigned ZOLEO SMS number and email address allows your contacts to initiate messaging with you

Cons

• Monthly subscription required
• Additional fees for add-ons such as Location Share
• Only available in certain countries

The ZOLEO Satellite Communicator is a rugged and GPS location-aware device that uses the Iridium satellite network to keep you connected when outside cell coverage. The device links with the free ZOLEO app on your smartphone, allowing you to send and receive messages from anywhere on earth.

One of the best things about the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator is that it offers a familiar text messaging experience to and from any SMS text number, email address, or another ZOLEO app user. You’ll also have a dedicated SMS phone number and email address that allows your contacts to initiate messaging with you.

The ZOLEO Satellite Communicator also includes emergency alerting and medical assist features. If something goes wrong, declaring an SOS ensures your SOS alert and GPS coordinates are sent to the expert 24/7 emergency monitoring service. Your ZOLEO service also includes Medical Assist, a convenient 24/7 chat service for non-emergency medical advice, help locating medical services or replacing medical supplies.

Another great feature of the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator is the ability to check-in and share your GPS location via messages, check-ins, automated Location Share updates, or through a secure Share Map URL. Location Share (add-on at $6/mo) allows for automatic location sharing at a selected interval and includes a breadcrumb trail viewable on a map.

Overall, the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator is a reliable and affordable option for staying connected when outside cell coverage. With its familiar text messaging experience, emergency alerting and medical assist features, and check-in and location sharing capabilities, the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator is definitely worth considering for your next outdoor adventure.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best satellite phone, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve put together a guide to help you make an informed decision.

Coverage

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a satellite phone is coverage. You’ll want to make sure that the phone you choose has coverage in the areas where you’ll be using it. Some satellite phones have global coverage, while others have coverage in specific regions. Be sure to check the coverage map before making a purchase.

Durability

Satellite phones are often used in remote and rugged environments, so durability is key. Look for a phone that is built to withstand extreme temperatures, moisture, and shock. Some phones are even designed to be waterproof, which can be a major advantage in wet environments.

Battery Life

Battery life is another important consideration when choosing a satellite phone. Look for a phone with a long battery life, especially if you’ll be using it in areas where charging is not an option. Some phones also have replaceable batteries, which can be a major advantage if you’ll be using the phone for an extended period of time.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of a satellite phone can also be important factors to consider. If you’ll be carrying the phone with you on long hikes or expeditions, you’ll want to choose a phone that is lightweight and compact. However, keep in mind that smaller phones may have smaller screens and keypads, which can make them more difficult to use.

Additional Features

Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. Some satellite phones have built-in GPS, which can be useful for navigation. Others may have emergency features, such as an SOS button, that can be critical in emergency situations. Think about your specific needs and choose a phone that has the features that are most important to you.