Satellite Phone Cost, Plans & Benefits in 2024

2024 Satellite Phone Basics

A satellite phone is a mobile phone that uses the satellite network to communicate with other mobile phones or even landline phones. 

Sat phones were designed to operate in extremely remote areas where there is no cellphone reception for miles.

They are also used by people who travel frequently and hike or camp in areas with limited cellular coverage. Satellite phones are useful and potentially life-saving for staying connected even when normal cellphone service is not available or has been destroyed.

Voice service is essential in emergency situations!

Sat Phone Cost & Prices

The cost of a satellite phone varies depending on the model of phone and the service provider. As of 1-9-2024, a new sat phone will cost anywhere from $350 to $1600. Used satellite phones can be found cheaper, but they do not come with a warranty and may not have the same modern features as a new sat phone. It is important to consider the pros and cons of buying brand new versus used devices before making a purchase decision.

Satellite messengers and global communicators are less. Starting at only $199.

From the Pivotel Blog:

"One of the questions we get fairly often is, "How much will it cost my family/office/friends to call me on my satellite phone?"

The answer depends on which phone carrier your contact has and, to a lesser extent, which plan they have (some carriers have special plans that decrease the per-minute rate to satellite phones).

Another thing to keep in mind is that a lot of carriers automatically block calls going to satellite phones. If your contacts aren't able to successfully call or text your satellite phone, check with their carriers to see if they've got calls to satellite phones automatically disabled." 

We do mention some of the top deals here. Also 2 models are currently free. IsatPhone 2 and Iridium 9555  are both free with a qualified service plan.

Current sat phone prices and plans at Amazon

Satellite phone rental is also very popular with short-term users!

The cost of a satellite phone can vary greatly depending on the type of service provider, the location and the features and accessories included with the device. Different service providers offer different plans and packages, so it's important to compare prices before making a purchase.

Location also plays a role in the cost of a satellite phone. Some providers offer discounts or special deals in certain areas such as the USA right now with multiple free sat phone plans. Additionally, features and great accessories such as additional batteries, waterproof cases, and solar chargers can add to the overall cost of the phone. 

Satellite Phone Plans in 2024

In addition to the initial purchase price, there are a few other costs that come with owning a satellite phone. Most satellite service providers charge a monthly fee for their services. This fee can range anywhere from $35 to $150 per month, depending on the provider and the type of service. Other costs to consider include airtime fees for making and receiving calls, text messaging fees, and roaming charges for using the phone in another part of the world.

There are a variety of different satellite phone providers and plans available. Each provider offers different types of plans and packages, so it's important to compare the features and prices before making a purchase decision. Some providers offer prepaid plans, while others offer monthly or even yearly plans. Additionally, some providers offer discounts or special deals for certain locations. Iridium and Inmarsat are both highly recommended and popular now.

Benefits of Buying a Satellite Phone

Purchasing a satellite phone can provide a number of valuable advantages especially in emergency prep. Sat phones are especially useful in remote areas and war zones where traditional cell phone service is not available. They also provide improved coverage in areas beyond roads and seas where reception normally does not exist. 

Additionally, robust satellite phones offer improved call quality and longer battery life than traditional mobile and smartphones.