10 Best Satellite Phones 2026 in the United States

The Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone is a reliable choice for those needing communication in remote areas. It offers global coverage, which is one of its major strengths, ensuring you can stay connected virtually anywhere. The battery life provides up to 4 hours of talk time, which is decent but may require carrying a spare battery for extended use.

Durability is another strong point, thanks to its anti-shock feature, making it suitable for rugged environments. However, it lacks GPS functionality, which could be a drawback for users who need precise location tracking. The phone offers basic data services, which might not be sufficient for heavy data users but can cover essential needs.

It is compact and lightweight, weighing only 1 pound, making it easy to carry around. The user interface relies on a small 2-inch screen and a keypad, which might feel outdated but is straightforward for basic operations. Emergency features are not highlighted in the specs, so it might not have advanced SOS functionalities that some other satellite phones offer. This phone is best suited for adventurers, remote workers, and anyone needing a dependable communication device in areas without regular cell service.

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 Garmin Montana 760i is a robust satellite phone and GPS navigator ideal for those venturing into remote areas where cell service is unavailable. It stands out with its rugged construction, being MIL-STD 810 rated for thermal, shock, and vibration resistance, and IPX7 water resistance, making it suitable for rough outdoor conditions. The 5-inch glove-friendly touchscreen is easy to use, even in challenging environments, and the device includes versatile mounting options for different activities, although they are sold separately.

The built-in 8MP camera with location tagging is a handy feature for capturing and navigating back to specific locations. The Garmin Montana 760i offers extensive mapping options, including TopoActive, City Navigator maps, and downloadable BlueChart g3 charts for water navigation, with an expanded 32GB memory capacity to store these maps. Users can also access high-resolution satellite imagery and multiple mapping contents via subscription services.

Connectivity is well-supported with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB options, making it easier to manage waypoints, routes, and trip data using the Garmin Explore smartphone app. The battery life is commendable, providing up to 24 hours in GPS mode and up to 432 hours in expedition mode, ensuring long-lasting operation during extended trips. However, it's important to note that an active subscription is required for inReach satellite communication features like two-way messaging, location tracking, and SOS services, which might be subject to local regulations.

Weighing 14.5 ounces and measuring 7.2 x 1.3 x 3.6 inches, the device is relatively portable but may feel bulky to some users. The Garmin Montana 760i is well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts such as hikers, campers, and adventurers who require reliable navigation and communication in remote areas. The primary drawbacks are the need for additional subscriptions and potentially cumbersome size and weight for some users.