Satellite Phones Buyer's Guide 2025

Compare features, cost and airtime for
the best satellite phone

Choose the Best Satellite Phone & Equipment

Choosing the best satellite phone for your communication needs can feel overwhelming, especially with several options available. You may need reliable voice calls, text messaging and emergency SOS alerts, or perhaps the ability to use your smartphone for satellite data and voice access. Whether you’re an adventurer, business traveler or safety manager overseeing remote workers, understanding the features that matter most is the key to choosing the best sat phone for your communication needs.

In this guide, we compare essential sat phone features like coverage, reliability, ease of use and special capabilities including location tracking and emergency communication. Use this guide to find the best satellite phone for your needs!

Major Satellite Phone Brands

Iridium Satellite Phones
Inmarsat Satellite Phones

Satellite Phones Comparison

Discover how the top satellite phones compare!

We’ve put together a comparison chart below to make it easy for you to shop for the satellite phone and package best suited for your needs including quality of service (QoS), potential limitations, and advantages one satellite phone may have over another. Remember, a communications device is only as good as the coverage and reliability of the network behind it.

  IsatPhone 2 Satellite Phone Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone Iridium Extreme Satellite Phone
Compare IsatPhone 2 Iridium 9555 Iridium Extreme
MPN/UPC 885562000343 BPKT0801 CPKT1101
Pricing (approx) $899 $1,150 $1,450
Network Inmarsat Iridium Iridium
Satellite Coverage Global (Minus Poles) Global Global
Weight 11.14 oz (316 g) 9.38 oz (266 g) 8.7 oz (247 g)
Size 6.65” x 2.95” x 1.14” (16.9 x 7.5 x 2.9 cm) 5.63” x 2.17” x 1.18” (14.3 x 5.5 x 3.0 cm) 5.5” x 2.36” x 1.06” (14.0 x 6.0 x 2.7 cm)
Battery Life 8hr talk / 160hrs standby 3hr talk / 30hrs standby 4hr talk / 30hrs standby
Antenna Fold-out directional Retractable omni-directional Retractable omni-directional
Display Color Monochrome Monochrome
Durability IK04 No MIL-STD 810F
Ingress Protection IP65 No IP65
Network 3 Geostationary satellites 66 Low Earth Orbit satellites 66 Low Earth Orbit satellites
Text Messaging (SMS) Supported Supported Supported
GPS Yes No Yes
Interfaces Micro USB, Bluetooth Mini USB, Audio Mini USB, Audio
Data Connectivity Yes, via USB or AxcessPoint Yes, via USB or AxcessPoint Yes, via USB or AxcessPoint
Data Speed (Uncompressed) 2.4 Kbps 2.4 Kbps 2.4 Kbps
Emergency SOS Yes No Yes
Learn More IsatPhone 2 Iridium 9555 Iridium Extreme

What Do You Want to Use Your Satellite Device For?

Satellite Voice, Text and Basic Email

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Use My Smartphone Where There's No Cell Coverage

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SOS, Tracking and Satellite Communication

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Satellite Broadband Access to the Internet

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Where Do You Want to Use Your Satellite Phone?

In addition to comparing the features of satellite phones, consider where you will need to use it. Do you need to make and receive satellite calls inside a building, vehicle, plane or boat? If so, consider specialized accessories, like docking stations, that are compatible with your satellite phone and enable use in these environments.

In-building Solutions

Use satellite phones in a building, lodge, camp or cabin.

Our satellite phone handsets work great for the adventurer! Iridium satellite offers phones, packages and data services for avid campers, hikers, hunters or any occupation that takes you off to a remote, off-the-grid location for a while.

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In-vehicle Solutions

Use satellite phones in a car, truck or recreational vehicle.

Iridium GO! and Iridium Extreme are two of the best examples used for vehicle satellite and data service needs. Iridium Extreme offers a feature-rich and durable handset that can take a tough beating and still be provide satellite communications in your time of need. Iridium GO! works like a satellite hotspot providing voice, text and data services to your smartphone making it easy to connect whenever you need to. A portable satellite attached to a vehicle is also a great way to have satellite communication on the go!

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Marine Solutions

Use satellite phones on a yacht or power boat.

Today, Iridium satellite equipment has been implemented on 50,000 vessels and is a trusted provider of safety and security services in the maritime market. Iridium was recognized by IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) in May 2018 for offering maritime distress and safety communications within the GMDSS.

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Aviation Solutions

Use satellite phones in the cockpit of a recreational aircraft.

Iridium provides global flight safety services via satellite solutions keeping crews and commuters safe and secure and able to react at a quick moment’s notice.

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Guy happily using a satellite phone

How are Satellite Phones Typically Used?

Satellite phones are essential for travel in remote areas where traditional cell service is unavailable. They’ve been around for decades, but until the launch of the Iridium network, they were too costly for most consumers. Today, satellite phones more accessible than ever, with more affordably priced purchase and rental options. Satellite phones are a valuable back up to cell phones because they don’t transmit over cellular or landlines which may be non-existent in some areas and can be damaged in natural or manmade disasters. a valuable back up to cell phones because they don’t transmit over cellular or landlines which may be non-existent in some areas and can be damaged in natural or manmade disasters.

Satellite phones just need a clear line of sight to the sky for signal reception. Unlike your cell phone, don’t expect your satellite phone to ring indoors, unless you’re next to a large window with the antenna pointing toward the open sky. Satellite network connectivity can be affected by buildings, mountains or heavy tree cover that block the antennas line of sight to the satellites in the sky. Pilots often keep a satellite phone or Iridium GO! exec on their cockpit dashboard to maintain a signal.

While placing voice calls to a satellite phone incur significant international surcharges, texting is less costly. The cell phone subscriber with an international SMS feature can text a satellite phone number for about the same cost as a text to an international number. Inmarsat and Iridium phones support text messaging (SMS) and short emails, making communication quick and easy.

The Inmarsat IsatPhone offers affordable global satellite connectivity. It supports voice, text and includes a built-in GPS receiver. While signal acquisition can be slow, due to the placement of the satellites, call quality remains quite good. For the best in satellite communication, the Iridium Extreme is the most rugged and feature-rich satellite phone available. It uses the Iridium network for unmatched quality and coverage. This IP65-rated sat phone can even withstand being dropped in water while still enabling calls or sending GPS coordinates via SMS or email.

Satellite Phones and Internet Access

Many satellite phones offer data services with limited bandwidth, but few provide Internet access. With an added accessory, you can perform popular online functions on a standard phone. Some devices, connect directly to smartphones via built-in Wi-Fi. A Wi-Fi-enabled satellite device will offer limited Internet capabilities, such as basic email or compressed photos, but is not suited to browsing webpages.

The Iridium GO! satellite hotspot was the first portable Wi-Fi hot spot to enable subscribers to call, text and email from their iOS or Android devices. It’s also more affordable than a traditional satellite phone. Iridium GO! can connect up to 5 devices, providing satellite data, voice and text messaging to anyone off the grid.

For those seeking additional bandwidth, the highly portable Iridium GO! exec supports higher data speeds (88Kbps download, 22Kpbs upload) and additional capabilities. It offers voice calls, messaging and email, along with secure file transfers and VPN access for a seamless experience in remote locations. The Iridium GO! exec also offers advantages over Starlink including portability and the ability to make phone calls without IP-enabled phone services.

Guy using the Iridium GO! portable satellite internet

Compare the Best Satellite Phone Plans

Satellite Phone Plans Included Price Incoming Calls & Text Messages Additional Outgoing Rates
Iridium 10 Monthly Plan 10 Global Voice Minutes, 10 Text Messages $65.00/Mo FREE $1.00/Min Shop Now
Iridium 125 Monthly Plan 125 Global Voice Minutes, 125 Text Messages $95.00/Mo FREE $1.00/Min Shop Now
Iridium 300 Monthly Plan 300 Global Voice Minutes, 300 Text Messages $125.00/Mo FREE $1.00/Min Shop Now
IsatPhone 15 Monthly Plan 15 Global Voice Minutes $45.00/Mo FREE 99¢/Min Shop Now
IsatPhone 60 Monthly Plan 60 Global Voice Minutes $59.00/Mo FREE 99¢/Min Shop Now
IsatPhone 200 Monthly Plan (12 MONTH TERM) 200 Global Voice Minutes $119.00/Mo FREE 99¢/Min Shop Now

Compare the Best Satellite WiFi Hotspots Plans

Satellite Phone Plans Included Price Incoming Calls & Text Messages Additional Outgoing Rates
Iridium GO! 10 Monthly Plan 10 Voice/Data Mins
10 Text/SMS		 $65.00/Mo FREE $1.00/Min Shop Now
Iridium GO! 125 Monthly Plan 125 Voice/Data Mins
125 Text/SMS		 $5.00/Mo FREE $1.00/Min Shop Now
Iridium GO! UNLIMITED Monthly Plan 200 Voice Mins
UNLIMITED Data Mins
UNLIMITED Text/SMS		 $145.00/Mo FREE $1.00/Min Shop Now
Iridium GO! exec 5 Monthly Plan 5 minutes + 5MB Data $65.00/Mo Voice calls: FREE
Text Messages: N/A		 $1.00/Min Shop Now
Iridium GO! exec 25 Monthly Plan 25 minutes + 25MB Data $109.00/Mo Voice calls: FREE
Text Messages: N/A		 $1.00/Min Shop Now
Iridium GO! exec 100 Monthly Plan 50 minutes + 100MB Data $155.00/Mo Voice calls: FREE
Text Messages: N/A		 $1.00/Min Shop Now
Iridium GO! exec UNLIMITED Monthly Plan 50 minutes + Unlimited Data $199.00/Mo Voice calls: FREE
Text Messages: N/A		 $1.00/Min Shop Now

Leading Satellite Network Providers for Reliable Communication

When it comes to dependable satellite connectivity, two industry leaders stand out: Iridium and Inmarsat. These global network providers offer robust, reliable solutions for voice and data communication, ensuring users stay connected no matter where they are. Whether you need coverage in remote locations, at sea or during emergencies, both networks provide the technology to keep you in touch.

Iridium: Seamless Worldwide Connectivity

The Iridium constellation is a full meshed network of 66 low-earth orbit (LEO) cross-linked satellites that cover the entire globe. Iridium is the only network offering 100% global communication coverage, and was found to deliver the best call quality compared to other networks, in an independent study. This is one reason the US military trusts Iridium for reliable communication.

Traveller’s Note: Although the coverage of Iridium is global, travellers are advised to contact local consulate or customs office for information on any restrictions which may prohibit use.

Inmarsat: Reliable and Consistent Communication

Inmarsat operates a network of high-powered geostationary (GEO) satellites, delivering dependable voice and data services across most of the world. With strategically positioned satellites, Inmarsat ensures continuous coverage for land, sea and air communications, making it a trusted choice for governments, businesses and adventurers alike

While Inmarsat offers near-global coverage, service availability may be subject to local regulations. Travellers should check with local authorities regarding any restrictions on satellite communications.

Satellite Phone FAQs

Why do people need satellite phones?

If you spend time areas without reliable landline or cellular coverage, or are concerned with having a backup to these systems, satellite phones enable you to communicate best where and when other forms of communications won’t. Because the satellites are in space, they aren’t dependent on land-based infrastructure like cell towers, and they are also less vulnerable to events on earth like natural disasters that can knock out cellular or landline systems.

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

A satellite phone is designed for voice communication, supporting real-time calls and basic texting. Some sat phones also include a built-in SOS button. In contrast, a satellite communicator like ZOLEO supports text/SMS along with location sharing and tracking, and SOS alerting. If voice is not a requirement, satellite communicators are extremely affordable and are widely used by consumers and businesses alike. If voice calling is a priority, choose a satellite phone.

How do satellite phones work?

Satellite phones connect to satellites orbiting the Earth. When you make a call, your phone sends a signal to a satellite overhead. The satellite relays the signal to a ground station, which links to the regular phone network. This system lets satellite phones work in remote areas, like oceans, mountains and wilderness, where cell service can’t reach.

Can satellite phones send and receive text messages?

Yes, satellite phones can send and receive text messages over the satellite network.

Can an iPhone be used as a satellite phone?

An iPhone cannot function as a full satellite phone, but newer models like the iPhone 14 and 15 offer satellite-enabled SOS and texting. This feature is limited to specific situations and regions, unlike a true satellite phone that supports global voice and messaging. For full satellite functionality, you would need a dedicated satellite phone or a satellite communicator like the ZOLEO.

Do I pay long-distance or roaming charges with satellite phones?

There are no long-distance or roaming charges with the Iridium or Inmarsat satellite networks, but there are extra fees for calling from one satellite network to another. When placing a call from a cell phone to a satellite phone, callers may incur higher charges.

Do satellite phones work everywhere?

Yes, satellite phones work almost everywhere, though coverage depends on the satellite network and airtime plan. Satellite phones connect directly to satellites, bypassing local cell towers. This makes them perfect for remote areas with no cellular coverage.

Do satellite phones work on the ocean?

Yes, satellite phones work on the ocean. They connect to satellites overhead — not cell towers. As long as the satellite network provider has global coverage, a user can access satellite connectivity on the ocean. This makes them crucial for maritime navigation, safety and emergencies.

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

Satellite phones connect to orbiting satellites, not cell towers. The signal travels to a satellite, then to a ground station or another satellite, linking to the public network. This allows satellite phones to work in remote areas, as long as there’s a clear line of sight to the sky. Cell phones, on the other hand, rely on nearby cell towers and need coverage to function. Though some newer smartphone models have satellite capabilities, the devices lack the durability and battery life provided by true satellite phones which is often needed for off-grid work and adventures.

Which satellite network has the best coverage?

The Iridium network offers the best global coverage. it provides reliable coverage everywhere — from the North Pole to the South Pole, across oceans, landmasses, and airways. Iridium’s reach and connectivity are unmatched. While Globalstar and Inmarsat also offer good coverage, they have limitations in some remote locations.

How does the SOS emergency feature work on a satellite phone?

Some satellite phones offer SOS alerting which sends distress signals to emergency services or predefined contacts. When activated, it uses satellite communication to transmit your location, even where there is no cell service, helping rescuers pinpoint your exact position. This feature is crucial for getting help in remote areas.

How much is a satellite phone?

The price of satellite phones can range from about $800-$1,500, depending on the model and features, such as GPS tracking, emergency SOS and durability.

Can you buy refurbished satellite phones?

Yes, BlueCosmo often sells open-box and refurbished devices that are like new. Inventory varies. Please enquire via live chat or by emailing: customercare@bluecosmo.com.

If I buy multiple satellite phones can they share one SIM card?

No, each satellite phone needs its own SIM card. While you can move a satellite SIM card between compatible phones, each phone must have a SIM card with an active plan or prepaid airtime to make calls.

How quickly can I get a satellite phone?

BlueCosmo offers satellite phones for sale and maintains an inventory of most satellite phone models and can generally ship the next business day for orders placed before 3 p.m. ET.

Should I rent or own a satellite phone?

Renting or owning a satellite phone depends on how often you’ll use it. Rent for short-term needs like vacations or business trips. It’s flexible, cost-effective and requires no long-term commitment. Rental plans often include accessories tailored to your needs. Own a satellite phone if you travel frequently or work in remote areas. It offers long-term value and reliability, though with a higher upfront cost. Think about how often you’ll use it before deciding.

Which satellite phone has the best coverage?

We only work with the leading satellite networks. Inmarsat, and Iridium all offer different coverage which may be better in certain areas or for certain types of voice, text or data services. The only satellite network that offers complete whole earth coverage (including the North and South Poles) is Iridium. Compare satellite networks.

Who owns the most satellites for phone service?

Iridium owns the largest commercial satellite constellation in the world. They operate an array of 66 satellites that cover the globe, no matter where on earth you are if you have clear access to the sky you can place a call on the Iridium satellite network.

Do I pay long distance or roaming charges with satellite phones?

There are no long distance or roaming charges with the Iridium or Inmarsat satellite networks. Globalstar’s network is more regional so if you travel outside of the United States, Canada or the Caribbean, Globalstar roaming fees may apply and you should check the rates.

Which satellite phone accessories are worth owning?

That depends on how you plan to use your satellite device. A spare battery is always something we recommend. It comes in handy on extended trips where you may not have access to a power source for recharging, or if you lose the one that comes with your device. Also, all satellite phone manufacturers offer compatible docking stations with an external antenna that can be stationed outdoors, enabling the satellite phone or device to be used inside a cabin, vehicle, boat or plane. You’ll find a selection of docking stations and related accessories for each model of phone on our website. You can also live chat or email us at customercare@bluecosmo.com if you’d like to discuss options.

 
 

Satellite Phones

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  1. Best Seller
    Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone
    Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone
    AS LOW AS $1,150.00
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  2. Best Seller
    Iridium Extreme 9575 Satellite Phone
    Iridium Extreme 9575 Satellite Phone
    AS LOW AS $1,450.00
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  3. Best Seller
    IsatPhone 2 Inmarsat Satellite Phone
    Inmarsat IsatPhone 2 Satellite Phone
    AS LOW AS $789.00
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  4. Best Seller
    Iridium GO! exec standing front with home screen
    Iridium GO! exec Portable Satellite and WiFi Calling Device
    $1,575.00
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  5. Best Seller
    Iridium GO! with Free Extended Warranty
    Iridium GO! Global Smartphone Access
    AS LOW AS $855.00
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  6. Best Seller
    The Iridium-based ZOLEO satellite communicator offers everything you need to stay connected and secure, when venturing beyond cell coverage.
    ZOLEO Satellite Communicator
    $199.00
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  7. Inmarsat IsatPhone 2 Satellite Phone with Airtime Bundle
    Inmarsat IsatPhone 2 Satellite Phone with Airtime Bundle
    AS LOW AS $0.00
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  8. Iridium 9555
    Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone with Airtime Bundle
    AS LOW AS $0.00
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  9. Iridium GO Bundle Offer
    Iridium GO! Satellite Hotspot with Airtime Bundle
    AS LOW AS $0.00
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  10. IsatPhone Monthly Service Plan
    IsatPhone Global Monthly Service Plans
    AS LOW AS $45.00/Month
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  11. Iridium Global Prepaid 75 Minute SIM Card
    Iridium Latin America Prepaid Satellite Phone Card
    AS LOW AS $299.00
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  12. Iridium Global Prepaid 75 Minute SIM Card
    Iridium Global Prepaid Satellite Phone Cards
    AS LOW AS $170.00
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