The best satellite phones of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

When you venture beyond the reach of Wi-Fi and cellular networks, even the sleekest smartphone can quickly become little more than an expensive paperweight. This is where satellite phones and messengers come in. While still a niche technology for many, these devices can be essential tools for adventurers, remote workers, and anyone who needs to stay connected in the most isolated corners of the world. In some cases, they can even be lifesaving.

As someone who spends plenty of time off the grid, I’ve had the opportunity to test a wide variety of satellite communication devices in rugged, remote, and unpredictable environments. I’ve put these tools to the test in real-world scenarios and broken down the best options that truly shine when you’re beyond the reach of traditional networks.

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What is the best satellite phone right now?

If you’re keen on staying connected no matter where you roam, ZDNET has done extensive research and hands-on testing with some of the best satellite phones and gadgets on the market. My current top pick is the Starlink Mini, simply because it’s one of the cheapest ways to access the full internet when on the go.

In our February update, we removed an outdated pick and updated the product descriptions of our top picks to the most recent information.

The best satellite phones and communicators of 2026

Starlink Mini

Why we like it: The biggest limitation of satellite phones and communicators is that you get drop-fed small amounts of bandwidth, and you pay big money for it. Additionally, what you can do with that data is very limited at times.

SpaceX Starlink Mini is different. The dish will set you back a fair chunk of change, although it’s cheaper than many satellite phones, but it will give you high-speed internet across most of the globe. With the Standby mode subscription, you can also get low-speed data access for a few dollars a month.

There’s a lot to like about the Starlink Mini package. You get true internet access, high-speed data transfer, and the ability to use it in a vehicle. The dish is also small, lightweight, and can even be run from a power bank. There are even dedicated power banks and multi-power cables available.

Read the review: How I turned the Starlink Mini into an almost perfect off-grid internet solution.

Who it’s for: This is for those who want high-speed access to the internet from anywhere at a fixed cost. It’s the perfect solution for vloggers, photographers, or videographers who need to send content to an editor, back up important files, or set up a camp that requires fast access to the entire internet.

Who should look elsewhere: If you value portability and want something more like a phone than a flat square of plastic, this is not for you.

Spot X

Why we like it: Spot is a leading name in the world of satellite trackers and messengers, and their Spot X device is one I trust. Its physical keyboard is a standout feature, offering an intuitive and reliable way to communicate—perfect for those of us who prefer the precision and feel of tactile buttons over touchscreens.

This isn’t just a gadget; it’s a rugged and reliable tool designed for the outdoors. Built to MIL-STD-810G standards for shock resistance and boasting an IP67 ingress protection rating, the Spot X can handle tough conditions without breaking a sweat. In addition, the battery is good for up to 240 hours.

The Spot X also has a dedicated SOS button. In an emergency, this single button can connect you to rescue services—an absolute lifesaver when you’re off the grid and far from cellular coverage. As someone who spends a lot of time outdoors, I value the peace of mind this provides. In fact, this was the satellite messenger I took with me on a 10-day hike in northern Spain. It worked perfectly at tracing my location and sending that to family and friends.

I always attach mine to the chest strap of my backpack to ensure the best possible view of the sky.

Also: I held the world’s thinnest foldable phone, and it made my Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 look outdated.

Who it’s for: Most messenger units rely on a smartphone connection or a poor on-screen keyboard for test entry, but this is the perfect device if you want a self-contained unit with a decent physical keyboard.

Who should look elsewhere: There are smaller satellite messengers out there, so if you’re a thru-hiker or traveling light, this might not be the best choice for you.

Garmin inReach Messenger Plus

Why we like it: If you’re looking to take communication to the next level by sharing photos and voice notes while out on your adventures, try the inReach Messenger Plus. This compact, puck-sized device supports emergency SOS messaging and lets you send photos and voice messages, keeping you connected no matter where you are.

Who it’s for: If you’re looking for a reliable way to stay connected off the grid with the ability to share photos and voice clips, this device is an excellent option. In addition to those features, it also includes essential tools like route tracking, messaging, and SOS capabilities to keep you safe and in touch during your adventures.

Who should look elsewhere: Upgrading from basic text messaging, as offered by the inReach Messenger, to the ability to send multimedia significantly increases the cost. It adds $100 to the hardware price and also raises the cost of the running costs—each photo and voice note costs a $1.

Garmin inReach Messenger Plus tech specs: Dimensions: 78mm x 64mm x 23mm | Weight: 117.2g | Services: Satellite messaging, location tracking, SOS, and photo/voice message service | Battery life: Up to 25 days of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode | IP Rating: IP7X | Price: $400

Iridium Go!

Why we like it: This looks like a standard travel router, but it also connects to the Iridium satellite network—a constellation of satellites that provides 100% global coverage, even in remote areas. You turn the Go! on, and it creates a Wi-Fi hotspot that allows smartphones, tablets, or laptops to connect and use the satellite network.

The Go! is designed for those who truly want to go off the grid. It’s rugged and built to withstand harsh environments, with excellent water and shock resistance. It also offers up to 15.5 hours of standby battery life and up to 5.5 hours of talk time.

Review: Iridium GO! Turn any smartphone into a satellite phone with internet access.

Who it’s for: The Go! is ideal for people traveling to remote locations, where traditional communication methods are unavailable, but who don’t want high-speed internet access.

Who should look elsewhere: The hardware is expensive, coming with an $899 price tag. This pushes it out of the realm of something you use occasionally and into something that needs to pay for itself. The service plans are also pricey, running between $70 and $180 per month.

Garmin inReach Mini 2

Why we like it: One of the standout features of the Garmin Mini 2 is the battery life. It offers up to 14 days in 10-minute tracking mode which is perfect for those extended treks when you’re not going to be able to recharge things.

It also has a monochrome display that’s easy to read in all lighting conditions, and it’s waterproof with an IPX7 rating. It has USB-C for easy charging and connectivity with other devices.

It’s a great self-contained unit for those who want to keep in touch when off-grid.

Review: Garmin inReach Mini 2 review.

Who it’s for: The Garmin Mini 2 is a popular choice for anyone wanting an affordable, easy to use, yet reliable and robust satellite messenger. I’ve seen these in the hands of hikers, bikers, canoeists, outdoor workers, and more. It’s a great choice for when the smartphone isn’t enough.

Who should look elsewhere: Those looking for full internet access need to look at something like the Starlink Mini or the Iridium Go! Also, if photo and voice isn’t important, there are cheaper options.

Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1

Why we like it: The Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1 is a fully featured satellite phone with near-global coverage and good battery life.

The Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.1 offers the ability to make and receive voice calls, send and get SMS, and track your position with GPS from anywhere on the globe.

It has an IK04 shock resistance rating, and the entire package is IP65 rated for dust- and waterproofing. The built-in lithium-ion battery offers eight hours of talk time and 160 hours on standby.

Who it’s for: It’s good to talk, and this is who this is aimed at—someone who just needs a phone that will work where cellphone coverage is non-existent.

Who should look elsewhere: If you’re someone who rarely uses the phone part of their smartphone, this is not for you. Also, the cost of the hardware and the plans are quite eye watering, so this isn’t something for the casual user.

Latest info on satellite phones

At the end of July last year, Starlink suffered a rare issue that knocked tens of thousands of users offline for over two hours. While social media was awash with talk about hacking and solar flares, the real issue behind the downtime was rather prosaic—software failure.

How to choose the best satellite phone for you

When determining which satellite phone is best for you, three factors come into play:

What do you need the satellite phone for? Expeditions? Hiking? Emergency use?
How much are you willing to spend? Prices start at just over $100 and quickly jump into the thousand-dollar range.
The network. Not all satellite networks have global coverage.

For example, if you want an affordable communicator that has global coverage capabilities, the Garmin inReach Mini 2 fits the bill. Want a budget communicator option? The Motorola Defy fits the bill. Meanwhile, if you want a satellite phone that can switch from GSM to satellite easily, the Thuraya XT-LTE is a wise choice.

Latest updates

In our February update, we removed an outdated pick and updated the product descriptions of our top picks to the most recent information. We also added the latest news on satellite phones.

Other satellite phones worth considering

BlueCosmo Iridium Extreme Satellite Phone & 600 Minute

The Iridium Extreme 9575 satellite phone handset, plus 600 minutes, is valid for 365 days. This is a fantastic deal for a satellite phone.

Zoleo Satellite Communicator

The Zoleo Satellite Communicator is a great alternative satellite phone to consider because it allows two-way global messaging in a compact design.

Garmin GPSMAP 67i

The Garmin GPSMAP 67i is a rugged handheld GPS receiver with built-in inReach communication technology. It comes with satellite imagery and topo maps preloaded, as well as an altimeter, barometer, and 3-axis electronic compass sensors.

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The best satellite phones of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

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