8 Life Saving Satellite Phones 2024

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.

GEAR & TOOLSWAR

9/11/20246 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.

Working with clients in the aftermath of a hurricane, I saw firsthand how fragile our everyday systems are. Cell towers lay crumpled like tin cans, power lines snaking across flooded streets. As my client tried to coordinate evacuations, supplies, and reunifications, one thing became clear—reliable communication is a literal life saver. That’s when the satellite phone, clutched in her hand like a beacon, became the only thread tying her to safety. She told me how she was able to reach her family across the country using her satellite device to let them know she was okay. She used a Zoleo device which tied to her cell phone. After the years prior hurricane, she got a service plan for about $20 per month. One of these communicators costs about $200 or less and should be included in your family member specific bug-out bag.

When disaster strikes, terrestrial communication systems are often among the first to fail. Hurricanes rip apart infrastructure, earthquakes snap cables buried deep in the ground, and wildfires leave smoldering ruins in their wake. The absence of functioning cell towers means that the communication network millions rely on daily is rendered useless. In these moments, satellite phones step in as silent sentinels, operating beyond the reach of local infrastructure. Unlike cell phones, which depend on ground-based towers, satellite communication devices link directly to orbiting satellites. This connection ensures functionality even when the ground is in chaos. Believe me, our grid can and will go down, maybe not globally but in big chunks.

Consider the mechanics. Satellite phones tap into constellations of satellites, some in low Earth orbit, others positioned farther out in geostationary orbit. These devices rely on clear signals between the user and the satellite, unhindered by downed towers or severed cables. This isn’t just theory; it’s proven in practice. Emergency responders often equip themselves with these devices to maintain operational efficiency in regions where traditional communication methods have collapsed. The military has long understood this advantage, using satellite communications to coordinate during combat scenarios or humanitarian missions.

As someone who has been in the field during disasters, I’ve witnessed the human element of what these devices provide. Ham radios are important but lose range and should be used as a backup to satellite phones, though they are free to operate and don't require a service plan. Imagine standing in a community cut off from the rest of the world. Families separated, aid routes unclear, rumors of rising floodwaters spreading like wildfire. The satellite phone becomes the pivot point for clarity. A single call can summon rescue helicopters, reroute supply trucks, or inform officials about the exact location of survivors. In such moments, the cold, mechanical chirp of a satellite phone becomes the most reassuring sound in the world.

Satellites also offer more than just voice communication. Modern satellite devices can transmit data, allowing users to send text messages, emails, or even photos of disaster zones. This capability is critical when visual confirmation of damage or conditions is required. Rescue teams rely on such tools to convey precise information about collapsed buildings or impassable roads. Satellite-enabled GPS devices are equally crucial, guiding responders through areas where landmarks have been obliterated. When all electronics fail, learning how to navigate by hand should be equally important as satellite or ham radios.

Yet, this technology is not exclusive to governments or elite teams. Advances in production and technology have made satellite phones and devices more accessible to the average person. Compact and rugged, they are designed to withstand harsh conditions—the kind you can expect during a disaster. Battery lives have improved, with some models capable of running for days without a charge. While they may not replace the sleek smartphones we carry daily, their role in emergencies makes them an indispensable tool.

Preparation doesn’t always mean anticipating the worst but ensuring you have tools that function when everything else fails. Satellite phones provide more than just a way to talk. They offer reassurance, a direct line to the outside world, and a way to turn chaos into order. The next time you think about what might keep you or your loved ones safe when disaster hits, consider what it means to have a voice when silence surrounds you.

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.