8 Life Saving Satellite Phones 2024

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EMERGENCY PREP

9/11/20243 min read

8 Satellite Phones That Can Save Your Life in an Emergency

When you're off the grid or in an emergency where traditional communication lines fail, a reliable satellite phone can be a literal lifesaver. These phones work by connecting to satellites, ensuring that you can call, text, or send your GPS coordinates from virtually anywhere on Earth. Here's a breakdown of 8 satellite phones that can keep you connected when you need it most, along with their prices, plans, and plan costs.

1. Iridium 9555

Price: $1,099
Network: Iridium
Plans:
- Basic Plan: $64.99/month (75 minutes)
- Heavy Use Plan: $149.99/month (200 minutes)
- Prepaid Plan: $720 for 600 minutes (12 months)
Features:
- Rugged, durable design
- Global coverage
- Can send text messages and GPS locations
- Battery lasts up to 30 hours on standby

The Iridium 9555 is known for its dependability in remote locations. With coverage over oceans, deserts, and poles, it's a solid choice for adventurers and emergency responders.

2. Iridium Extreme 9575

Price: $1,245
Network: Iridium
Plans:
- Standard Plan: $89.99/month (75 minutes)
- Extended Plan: $189.99/month (200 minutes)
- Prepaid Plan: $1,080 for 1,000 minutes (24 months)
Features:
- Built-in GPS tracking
- SOS button for emergencies
- Shock-resistant and waterproof
- Long-lasting battery (up to 30 hours standby)

With the Iridium Extreme 9575, you get more rugged features like GPS tracking and an SOS button, making it ideal for solo travelers or emergency teams in extreme environments.

3. Globalstar GSP-1700

Price: $499
Network: Globalstar
Plans:
- Basic Plan: $49.99/month (40 minutes)
- Unlimited Plan: $199/month (Unlimited calling)
- Prepaid Plan: $540 for 400 minutes (12 months)
Features:
- Compact and lightweight
- Clear voice quality
- Quick connectivity in open areas
- 36 hours of standby time

The Globalstar GSP-1700 is a budget-friendly option that doesn't sacrifice performance. It provides reliable communication at a lower cost but is best suited for use in open areas where Globalstar's network has fewer obstructions.

4. Inmarsat IsatPhone 2

Price: $749
Network: Inmarsat
Plans:
- Basic Plan: $60/month (50 minutes)
- Premium Plan: $99/month (100 minutes)
- Prepaid Plan: $600 for 500 minutes (12 months)
Features:
- Reliable connectivity in extreme weather
- Long battery life (up to 160 hours standby)
- SOS button and GPS tracking
- Global coverage (except polar regions)

The Inmarsat IsatPhone 2 is ideal for those traveling in harsh weather conditions. Its long-lasting battery and durability ensure it remains functional even in the toughest situations.

5. Thuraya XT-LITE

Price: $425
Network: Thuraya
Plans:
- Basic Plan: $49/month (50 minutes)
- Unlimited Plan: $149/month (Unlimited calling)
- Prepaid Plan: $350 for 500 minutes (12 months)
Features:
- Affordable and easy to use
- Compact design
- 80 hours of standby time
- Regional coverage (Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia)

The Thuraya XT-LITE offers an affordable entry point into satellite phones, with decent coverage for travelers in Europe, Asia, and Africa. However, it lacks global coverage, so it's not ideal for polar regions or the Americas.

6. Garmin inReach Mini 2

Price: $399
Network: Iridium
Plans:
- Safety Plan: $14.95/month (10 text messages)
- Recreation Plan: $34.95/month (40 text messages)
- Expedition Plan: $64.95/month (Unlimited text messages)
Features:
- 2-way SMS messaging
- GPS tracking and SOS button
- Connects to smartphones via Bluetooth
- Up to 90 hours of battery life (10-minute tracking intervals)

The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is more of a satellite communicator than a traditional satellite phone. It’s perfect for adventurers who need two-way messaging, GPS tracking, and an SOS feature in a compact, portable package.

7. Thuraya X5-Touch

Price: $1,149
Network: Thuraya
Plans:
- Basic Plan: $79.99/month (50 minutes)
- Unlimited Plan: $159.99/month (Unlimited calling)
- Prepaid Plan: $500 for 500 minutes (12 months)
Features:
- Dual-mode satellite and GSM phone
- Runs on Android OS
- 70 hours standby battery life
- Rugged and durable for harsh environments

The Thuraya X5-Touch is the world’s first Android-based satellite phone. Its dual-mode functionality allows users to switch between satellite and GSM networks, offering versatility for those who travel in both connected and remote areas.

8. Iridium GO!

Price: $1,050
Network: Iridium
Plans:
- Basic Plan: $52/month (10 minutes + 150 SMS)
- Unlimited Data Plan: $140/month (Unlimited voice and data)
- Prepaid Plan: $750 for 600 minutes (12 months)
Features:
- Mobile hotspot for satellite data
- Can connect up to 5 devices
- Compact and portable
- Up to 15 hours of battery life

The Iridium GO! is unique as it functions as a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing you to connect your smartphone or tablet to the Iridium satellite network for calls, texts, and data. It’s perfect for families or teams needing multi-device connectivity in remote areas.

Conclusion

A satellite phone is an indispensable tool for anyone venturing into remote locations or preparing for potential communication outages during emergencies. When choosing a satellite phone, consider not only the upfront cost but also the ongoing plan costs, as they vary widely depending on your needs. Whether you prioritize rugged durability, global coverage, or affordability, the above options can keep you connected when it matters most.