Iridium Satellite Phone Guide: Best Devices for 2024

Cellular networks are our lifelines, but sometimes they fall short. Natural disasters, war zones, remote camping adventures, and long sailing trips can take us far beyond traditional cell signals.

That’s where Iridium satellite phones come in, providing reliable global communication when terrestrial networks aren’t an option.

What is a Satellite Phone?

Satellite phones or satellite handsets differ from modern smartphones by directly connecting to orbiting satellites rather than cell towers. This grants them exceptional coverage, as long as you have a clear view of the sky.

Iridium offers one of the most extensive satellite networks, ensuring seamless satellite calling and connectivity virtually anywhere on Earth.

Why Choose an Iridium Satellite Phone?

• True Global Coverage: The Iridium network boasts 66 low-earth-orbiting (LEO) satellites that blanket the entire planet, including the polar regions. This means you can make calls, send texts, and even share your GPS location from the middle of the ocean or the most remote wilderness.
• Durability: Iridium satellite phones are designed to withstand the elements. Rugged builds, water resistance, and shock-proofing make them ideal for harsh environments.
• Reliability: Unlike cellular networks that can falter during emergencies, satellite communication offers a more dependable lifesaver when disaster strikes.
• Specialized Features: Many Iridium models offer advanced features like SOS buttons, GPS tracking, and even web browsing capabilities for added safety and convenience.

Best Iridium Satellite Phone in 2024

Here’s a breakdown of the top Iridium satellite phones on the market today:

• Iridium 9575 Extreme: The flagship model. Offers superior voice quality, built-in SOS, GPS tracking, and a robust, weatherproof design. Ideal for serious adventurers or emergency responders.
• Iridium 9555: A compact and reliable option. Provides exceptional voice clarity and essential satellite communication features.
• Iridium Extreme PTT: A push-to-talk device that delivers instant and secure group communication, perfect for teams operating in remote locations.
• Garmin inReach Mini 2: This small but powerful satellite messenger device offers two-way texting, GPS tracking, SOS capabilities, and basic navigation. These devices use the Iridium Network.
• Iridium GO!: While not a traditional satellite phone, Iridium GO! is a satellite communication accessory that transforms your existing smartphone into a satellite communication device. It creates a Wi-Fi hotspot that your smartphone can connect to, enabling you to make calls, send SMS messages, and even access basic data services through the Iridium network.
• Best Selling Iridium sat phone kits: with current prices and deals are at the end of this guide!

Iridium GO Satellite Hotspot in Detail

Iridium GO! is a compact and portable satellite communication device that bridges the gap between traditional satellite phones and your everyday smartphone.

Here’s a closer look at its functionalities:

• Smartphone Connectivity: Iridium GO! (current Amazon price) utilizes a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing up to five devices (smartphones, tablets, or laptops) to connect simultaneously.
• Iridium GO! App: A free app is required to manage your Iridium GO! connection and access satellite features. The app lets you make and receive calls, send and receive SMS messages, and leverage basic data services like email and weather updates (depending on your service plan).
• SOS Function: Iridium GO! offers a built-in SOS button that, when pressed, sends a distress alert with your GPS location to emergency response services.

Who Needs an Iridium GO!?

• Casual Adventurers: Iridium GO! is an excellent choice for occasional adventurers or those venturing into areas with spotty cellular coverage. It’s lighter and more affordable than a traditional satellite phone while still providing critical communication capabilities.
• Budget-Conscious Users: For those who don’t require the full functionality of a dedicated satellite phone but need reliable communication beyond cellular reach, Iridium GO! offers a cost-effective solution. Satellite phone cost is a major consideration, and Iridium GO! leverages your existing smartphone, reducing upfront costs.

Iridium GO! exec: Enhanced Power for Businesses and Demanding Users

The Iridium GO! exec is a step up from the standard Iridium GO! for users who require faster data speeds and more simultaneous connections. It’s designed with businesses and power users in mind, offering:

• Increased Data Speeds: Enjoy faster data connections for basic email, weather reports, light web browsing, and social media apps on your connected smart devices.
• More Simultaneous Users: Supports up to eight connected devices at once, ideal for teams and small groups operating in remote locations.
• Durable Design: Built for tough environments, maintaining the same ruggedness of other Iridium devices.
• Integrated SOS Functionality: Ensure safety with the same reliable SOS button and emergency communication features found in Iridium GO!

Who should consider the Iridium GO! exec:

• Businesses: Teams operating off-grid can stay connected for coordination and essential data access.
• Sailors and Maritime Users: Ideal for longer voyages requiring extended connectivity and communication reliability for multiple users.
• Demanding Adventurers: Those needing faster data transfer or managing multiple devices will benefit from the exec’s increased capabilities.

Important Note: The Iridium GO! exec also requires a compatible smartphone or tablet to function as a satellite hotspot.

Things to Consider When Choosing an Iridium Communication Solution

• Iridium Satellite Phone vs. Iridium GO! Traditional Iridium satellite phones offer complete standalone functionality, ideal for situations where you might not have a smartphone or need a more rugged device. Iridium GO! provides a more affordable and convenient solution if you already have a smartphone and prioritize value.
• Durability: Consider how you’ll be using the device. Iridium satellite phones are generally

Features to Consider

• Durability: Check for IP ratings for water and dust resistance, MIL-STD ratings to assess shock and temperature resilience, and build materials.
• Battery Life: Long battery life is crucial. Consider standby and talk times. Some models offer extended batteries for multi-day adventures.
• SOS Capabilities: A dedicated SOS button can be a literal lifesaver, sending your location and emergency alerts to predetermined contacts or international response teams.
• GPS Tracking: Track your location and share coordinates with others for safer navigation and potential rescue operations.
• Data Capabilities: Some models offer data connectivity for basic web browsing, emails, and weather reports.

Iridium Satellite Phone Plans and Costs in 2024

• Price of Handsets: Iridium satellite phones are naturally more expensive than regular cellphones, typically ranging from $1,000 to over $1,500.
• Airtime Plans: You’ll need a satellite plan to use your phone. Plans come in monthly or prepaid options with varying allotments of call minutes, text messages, and sometimes data.
• Satellite phone cost will be impacted by these plan selections.
• Additional Charges: Features like tracking services may incur extra monthly fees.

Choosing the Right Satellite Phone Plan

While selecting the best Iridium satellite phone is crucial, it’s equally important to consider the associated satellite phone plans. Iridium offers a range of flexible plans tailored to different usage scenarios and budgets, ensuring you get the most value for your investment.

1. Prepaid Plans: Perfect for occasional users or those with limited communication needs, prepaid plans allow you to purchase airtime credits upfront and use them as needed. These plans are ideal for short-term trips or emergency situations.
2. Monthly Plans: For more frequent users or professionals who rely heavily on satellite communication, monthly plans offer a cost-effective solution with a fixed recurring fee. These plans typically include a certain number of minutes and data allowance, with the option to purchase additional airtime as needed.
3. Unlimited Plans: For organizations or individuals with extensive communication needs, unlimited plans provide unrestricted access to voice and data services, ensuring seamless connectivity without worrying about usage limits.
4. Custom Plans: Iridium also offers custom plans tailored to specific requirements, such as enterprise solutions for businesses or specialized plans for government and military applications.

Garmin Satellite Phone Integration

Garmin, a leading manufacturer of GPS devices and outdoor technology, has partnered with Iridium to integrate satellite phone capabilities into their product lineup.

The Garmin inReach satellite communicators, such as the inReach Explorer+ and inReach Mini 2, offer two-way satellite communication, allowing users to send and receive text messages, share GPS coordinates, and trigger interactive SOS alerts in case of emergencies.

While not full-fledged satellite phones, these devices provide a valuable communication solution for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and adventurers venturing into remote areas.

The integration with Iridium’s global satellite network ensures reliable connectivity when cellular coverage is unavailable.

Who Needs a Satellite Phone?

• Adventurers: Hikers, mountaineers, sailors, and anyone venturing deep into the wilderness.
• Emergency Responders: First responders operating in disaster zones where cellular networks are likely disrupted.
• International Travelers: Frequent travelers to remote areas of the globe with limited cellular coverage.
• Businesses: Companies operating in isolated locations, such as mining, oil extraction, or construction.
• Anyone Demanding Reliability: If staying connected is absolutely critical, a satellite phone is your ultimate backup plan