12 Best satellite communicators on the market in 2022: Comparison Table
What is the best satellite communicator? As a more reliable alternative to a cell phone, satellite communicators are ideal in emergency situations and wilderness. With such a device, you can both make calls and send and receive text messages.
Keep in mind, though, that you will need to choose a data plan for your satellite communicator to send and receive messages as well as track your location. Subscriptions are available in annual and monthly terms, in addition to activation fees.
How Satellite Communicators Differ
Satellite communicators are categorized into standalone units and communicators that integrate with a smartphone using Bluetooth capabilities. Standalone satellite communicators have a keyboard and a screen for mapping.
However, if you are planning to take your mobile phone with you on a trip, an integrated satellite communicator will be a more economical option.
GPS location tracking is a must-have feature in any satellite communicator. Some models offer beneficial extra features, such as downloadable waypoints and offline maps.
In terms of capabilities, satellite communicators come in two types: satellite phones and satellite messengers. The messenger is a two-way device that works similarly to a pager and is a more economical solution. Using this device, you can only send texts and your location data.
A satellite phone allows you to talk from anywhere, be it the top of a mountain or a remote rural area. The best satellite phones feature military-grade weather protection. Access to emails and other extra features are also a plus.
Best Satellite Communicators Compared
One of the most trusted brands in the industry is Garmin, a Swiss technology company with 30 years of experience. The company uses inReach satellite technology in its satellite communicators and offers different subscription plans — safety, recreation, expedition, basic, advanced, and unlimited.
The most popular model is the Garmin GPSMAP 66i, which offers preloaded Garmin TOPO mapping and subscription-free Birdseye satellite imagery downloads. Equipped with a durable Li-ion battery, this gadget provides a runtime of up to 200 hours in the Expedition mode.
The device is made with a large, 3-inch colour display and uses a global Iridium satellite network providing two-way messaging. You can also trigger an SOS to the GEOS emergency team, access up-to-date weather forecasts, and sync waypoints, routes, and other data with your mobile device via the Garmin Explore app.
Another model from this brand, the Garmin inReach Mini 2, is a more compact gadget with a longer battery life of up to 336 hours. This gadget features a smaller, 1.2-inch monochrome display, Bluetooth connectivity, and synchronization with the Garmin Explore app.
Like the Garmin GPSMAP 66i, this satellite communicator allows you to send an interactive SOS message, find your way back using the Traceback feature, and send messages. This palm-sized Garmin inReach Mini 2 communicator is built with a durable IPX7 water-rated polymer case.
The ZOLEO Satellite Communicator is a two-way communication device based on the Iridium satellite network. The device synchronizes with a smartphone through the Zoleo app, so you can stay connected outside cell coverage. A robust, military-grade design is water- and shock-resistant.
The monthly subscription includes SOS, cellular, and Wi-Fi messaging. A dedicated SMS text number and an email address are included. You can send SOS alerts, text messages up to 160 characters, emails, share your GPS location, and check-in. The battery lasts for more than 200 hours and takes 2 hours to charge.
Best-Selling Satellite Communicators | Comparison Table
Most Popular
Garmin 010-01879-01 InReach Mini, Lightweight and by Runner's Depo
- Small, rugged, lightweight satellite communicator enables 2 way text messaging using the 100% global Iridium network (satellite subscription required)
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center (satellite subscription required)
- Access downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more by using the free Garmin Earthmate app and compatible devices
ZOLEO Satellite Communicator – Two-Way Global SMS Text Messenger & Email, Emergency SOS Alerting, Check-in & GPS...
- 🌎ZOLEO GLOBAL TWO-WAY SATELLITE COMMUNICATOR: Rugged, GPS location-aware and Iridium satellite based, the ZOLEO device links with the free ZOLEO app on your smartphone or tablet to keep you connected when outside cell coverage. Monthly subscription required: $20, $35 or $50 (25, 250 or unlimited satellite messages) with cellular, Wi-Fi and SOS messaging included. After the initial 3-month commitment, suspend for just $4/mo. Plans currently available in USA, Canada, Australia, but work globally.
- ✉️GLOBAL MESSAGING AS IT WAS MEANT TO BE: Only ZOLEO extends your messaging coverage to everywhere on earth transmitting over the lowest cost network available (satellite, cellular or Wi-Fi). ZOLEO offers a familiar text messaging experience to and from any SMS text number, email address or another ZOLEO app user. By taking advantage of cellular or Wi-Fi when available and the Iridium network (a truly global satellite network) when it isn’t, only ZOLEO offers seamless coverage wherever you go!
- 📲DEDICATED SMS PHONE NUMBER & EMAIL ADDRESS: Your ZOLEO device includes a dedicated US SMS text number and email address that you can share with contacts that you want to remain accessible to, and that they’ll recognize when you message them. Contacts can send messages directly to your SMS number, email address or via the free ZOLEO app. It’s that simple!
- 🆘EMERGENCY SOS & MORE: If something goes wrong, declaring an SOS ensures your SOS alert and GPS coordinates are sent to GEOS, our 24/7 emergency monitoring and dispatch partner. Other safety features include check-in to let others know you’re OK (using built-in device button or the ZOLEO app) and the ability to add your GPS coordinates to any message. Location Share+ (add-on at $6/mo) allows for automatic location sharing at a selected interval including a breadcrumb trail viewable in a map.
- 💪RUGGED AND BUILT TO WORK FOR DAYS: Long-lasting battery life – 200+ hours or 8+ days checking messages every 12 minutes (Lithium-ion battery). Lightweight (5.3 oz) and compact (3.58 x 2.6 x 1.06 in), the ZOLEO device is rugged with MIL-STD 810G shock-resistance, and superior dust- and water- resistance (IP68). Power input – Micro-USB Type B with a charging time of 2 hours. Operating temperature – -4°F to 131°F.
Garmin 010-01879-00 InReach Mini, Lightweight and by CA GOLF CENTER
- Small, rugged, lightweight satellite communicator enables 2 way text messaging using the 100 percentage global Iridium network (satellite subscription required)
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center (satellite subscription required). Display size-0.9 x 0.9 inch
- Access downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more by using the free Garmin Earthmate app and compatible devices
Garmin inReach Explorer+, Handheld Satellite by Runner's Depo
- 100 percent global Iridium satellite coverage enables two way text messaging from anywhere (satellite subscription required)
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center
- Track and share your location with family and friends. Water rating : IPX7. Battery : Rechargeable internal lithium ion
Garmin GPSMAP 66i, GPS Handheld and Satellite by Amazon.com
- Large 3 inch Sunlight-readable color display for easy viewing
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the geos 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center, two-way messaging via the 100% Global Iridium satellite network (satellite subscription required)
- Preloaded Garmin TOPO mapping with direct-to-device Birdseye satellite imagery downloads (no annual subscription), includes multiple global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) support and navigation sensors
Products with 5 star rating
Other Popular
Garmin inReach Mini Satellite Communicator (Orange) Hiking GPS (Satellite Subscription Required)- Bundle with 1...
- The Garmin inReach Mini Satellite Communicator gives you peace of mind while off the grid allowing you to send and receive texts from anywhere in the world via global satellite service(subscription required)
- The device is a GPS navigator with compass and bearing capabilities, basic grid waypoint marking and breadcrumb trails, and sophisticated on-map guidance
- You can reach the GEOS emergency response service if trouble arises. The 24/7 service, which has supported rescues in more than 140 countries, alerts local authorities and first responders to come to your aid
- Access Maps, Aerial Images & More| Rechargeable, 50-Hour Runtime per Charge| Lightweight at 3.5 Ounces and IPX7 Waterproof
- Bundle includes Garmin inReach Mini Satellite Communicator (Orange), 1 Year CPS Worldwide Warranty (manufacturer defects only)( 2 years total of Warranty Protection), MicroFiber Cleaning Cloth (See Full List Below)
Spot X 2-Way Satellite Messaging, GPS Tracking SOS Feature w X-HD-X-B
- SPOT X APP -Easily connect the SPOT X device to the SPOT X app via Bluetooth and have satellite connectivity at your fingertips
- MESSAGE - Exchange messages with any cell phone number or email address from virtually anywhere in the world
- S.O.S. - Send an S.O.S. to the 24/7 search & rescue center, message back and forth about the nature of your emergency, and receive confirmation when help is on the way.
- TRACKING - Choose 2.5, 5, 10, 30, or 60 minute tracking intervals, and track your adventure with SPOT’s easy-to-use cloud-based mapping
- Other Features: S.O.S, messaging, bluetooth phone connectivity, app, compass, check-in
Garmin GPSMAP 66i GPS Handheld and Satellite Communicator and Garmin Powered Mount Bundle (010-02088-01)
- IN THE BOX: 1 x Garmin GPSMAP 66i (010-02088-01), 1 x USB charging cable, 1 x Carabiner Clip, 1 x Garmin AMPS Powered Mount (010-12825-00)
- GARMIN GPSMAP 66i: Preloaded Garmin TOPO mapping with direct-to-device Birdseye Satellite Imagery downloads (no annual subscription); includes multiple Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) support and navigation sensors
- EXPLORE ANYWHERE. COMMUNICATE EVERYWHERE: Trigger an interactive SOS to the GEOS 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center; two-way messaging via the 100% global Iridium satellite network (satellite subscription required)
- POWERFUL BATTERY: Internal, rechargeable lithium battery provides up to 35 hours of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode; 200 hours in Expedition mode with 30-minute tracking intervals
- GARMIN POWERED MOUNT: Uses the AMPS hole pattern to be compatible with a broad range of mounting solutions. Keep your GPSMAP 66i fully charged with the integrated USB cable. RAM Mount part number suggestion: RAM-B-347U
Garmin Rino 755t, Rugged Handheld 2-Way Radio/GPS Navigator with Camera and Preloaded TOPO Mapping
- 5 w gmrs two-way radio offers extended range, up to 20 miles; communicate by voice or unit-to-unit text Messaging
- High-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS satellite reception; tracks in more challenging environments than GPS alone
- Position reporting Feature shows locations of other rino users on the same channel
- 3” Sunlight-readable touchscreen with Dual orientation (landscape or portrait view)
- Dual battery system provides up to 14 hours between charges on lithium-ion Pack or up to 18 hours with optional AA batteries (sold separately)
Garmin GPSMAP 86Sci, Floating Handheld GPS with Button Operation, Preloaded BlueChart G3 Coastal Charts And...
- Water-resistant, floating design, sunlight-visible 3” display and button operation provide ease of use on the water
- Stream boat data from compatible chartplotters and instruments to consolidate your marine system information
- Preloaded bluechart G3 coastal charts include the best of Garmin and Navionics data
- Stay in touch with in reach satellite communication and two-way text messaging via the 100% Global Iridium satellite network (satellite subscription required)
- Functions as a remote control for convenient operation of your Garmin autopilot and Fusion Marine products; to activate, download free apps from our Connect IQ store
- Adjustable GPS filter smooth speed and heading indications over swells
- With a satellite subscription trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center
- With a satellite subscription share your location with others using GPS-based location tracking
- Optional in reach weather forecast service provides detailed updates directly to your GPSMAP 86i handheld with a satellite subscription
Garmin GPSMAP 66i Hiking GPS Tactical Bundle | with PlayBetter Tactical Pouch, Portable Charger, GPS Tether...
- [GARMIN GPSMAP 66i HANDHELD GPS] - Garmin GPSMAP 66i Handheld GPS, Access to Birdseye Satellite Imagery, Carabiner Clip & USB Charging Cable
- [PLAYBETTER TACTICAL BUNDLE] - PlayBetter Tactical Pouch, PlayBetter GPS Tether Lanyard (Black) & PlayBetter 5000mAh Portable Charger
- [RUGGED HANDHELD GPS + TOPO MAPPING] - A premium GPS Handheld and Satellite Communicator that features a large 3” sunlight-readable color display for easy viewing plus preloaded Garmin TopoActive mapping for North and Central America with direct-to-device BirdsEye Satellite Imagery downloads.
- [INTERACTIVE SOS, 2-WAY MESSAGING & ACTIVE WEATHER] - Connecting your handheld to a cellular connectivity lets you access Active Weather forecasts and Geocaching Live. Feel more safer with its interactive SOS to the GEOS 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center; plus two-way messaging via the 100% global Iridium satellite network.
- [BUNDLE FOR THE OUTDOORS] - Keep your hands free and action-ready with our GPS Tether Lanyard, the ultimate GPS accessory to keep your handheld both secured and accessible by wearing it around your neck - while the Tactical Pouch will keep your handheld looking like new and the PlayBetter Portable Charger will ensure all your electronics are charged at all times!
"Garmin Montana 750i, Rugged GPS Handheld with Built-in inReach Satellite Technology and 8-megapixel Camera,...
- Features rugged military-grade construction and a 5” touchscreen display that’s 50% larger than the previous model; 8-megapixel camera lets you capture images anywhere you go
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the GEOS 24/7 monitoring center — two-way messaging via the 100% global Iridium satellite network (active satellite subscription required; some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices).
- Multi-GNSS (GPS and Galileo) support — plus preloaded TopoActive and City Navigator maps; navigation sensors include 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter
- Pro-connected with ANT+ technology, Wi-Fi connectivity and BLUETOOTH wireless networking, giving you direct-to-device access to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery downloads, location sharing, Connect IQ app support and more
- Compatible with the Garmin Explore website and app to help you manage waypoints, routes, activities and collections, use tracks and review trip data from the field
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