10 Best Satellite Phones 2025 in the United States

The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a compact and lightweight satellite communicator that's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly hikers and campers. Its key strength lies in its global two-way messaging capabilities, allowing you to stay connected even in remote locations, provided you have an active satellite subscription. The device boasts impressive battery life, lasting up to 14 days when set to 10-minute tracking mode, which is quite advantageous for long trips away from power sources. Durability is another plus; it’s water-resistant and built to endure the rugged conditions you might encounter in nature.

In terms of user interface, the inReach Mini 2 features a touchscreen that is user-friendly, although the small screen size (1.27 inches) may be limiting for some tasks. It offers additional functionalities like TracBack routing and integration with the Garmin Explore app for mapping, which enhances its usability for navigation.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The requirement for an active subscription can add ongoing costs, which may not appeal to everyone. While it excels in messaging and emergency SOS features, it lacks traditional phone capabilities, meaning you can’t make voice calls. Additionally, its size may be a double-edged sword; while it’s great for portability, some users might find the smaller screen challenging for certain tasks.

The BlueCosmo Iridium Extreme satellite phone shines with its truly global network coverage, thanks to Iridium’s 66 cross-linked satellites that work worldwide—even over oceans and polar regions. This means you can make calls, send texts, and use GPS almost anywhere without roaming charges. It comes with 600 prepaid minutes valid for a year, with easy options to add more, making it good for extended trips.

Battery life is solid for standby at 30 hours, but actual talk time is about 3 hours, which is typical for satellite phones but something to keep in mind if you expect long calls. The device is built tough with military-grade durability and a high IP65 rating, so it can handle dust, shocks, and rain—great for harsh outdoor environments. It includes useful extras like a speakerphone, wind-resistant microphone, and a dedicated SOS button for emergencies, adding a reassuring safety net.

The phone is relatively lightweight and compact for a satellite phone, so it’s easy to carry. However, its talk time is limited compared to regular cell phones, and setup may feel a bit complex for first-time users despite clear guides. BlueCosmo’s customer support and included accessories like multiple chargers and antennas add value for those needing reliable satellite communication. This phone suits adventurers, professionals working in remote areas, or anyone needing dependable global voice and GPS communication with emergency features.

The Garmin GPSMAP 67i Rugged Hiking GPS is an excellent option for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable satellite communication. With its inReach satellite technology, it offers two-way messaging and an interactive SOS feature, allowing users to stay connected even in the most remote locations. The global Iridium network ensures good coverage, which is vital for safety during outdoor adventures. A significant strength of this device is its impressive battery life of up to 165 hours, making it suitable for extended trips without frequent recharging.

In terms of durability, the GPSMAP 67i is built to withstand tough conditions, further appealing to hikers and campers. The multi-band GNSS support enhances navigation accuracy, essential for exploring challenging terrains. The large, sunlight-readable 3-inch display is user-friendly, allowing easy access to maps and data.

This device requires an active subscription for the inReach services, which could be an added cost for users. While it excels in features like location tracking and emergency alerts, those who primarily need basic communication might find it more complex than necessary. Additionally, weighing 2.07 pounds, it may be considered a bit bulky for those looking for lightweight options. The GPSMAP 67i is ideal for serious adventurers who value safety and navigation features, though casual users may find it more than they need. The combination of rugged build, extensive battery life, and reliable satellite communication makes it a robust choice in the satellite phone category.