Top Satellite Phone Brands: Reliable Connectivity Anywhere

Satellite phones are indispensable tools for staying connected in remote areas where traditional cell service isn't available. With advancements in technology, several brands have emerged as leaders in providing reliable and durable satellite communication solutions. Among the top brands are Iridium, known for its extensive global coverage and robust network, and Inmarsat, which offers high-speed data services and is especially popular with maritime users. Another notable brand is Thuraya, which stands out with its affordable plans and flexible mobile satellite services. For a more detailed insight into these top satellite phone brands, keep reading below.

Illustration of satellite phone

Best brands of satellite phone in 2025

Iridium

Iridium Communications Inc. is a leading provider of global voice and data satellite communications, operating a constellation of 66 active low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, plus spares, to ensure seamless and uninterrupted global coverage. The company, which surpassed one million subscribers in 2018, reported record third-quarter results in 2024 with $212.8 million in total revenue and an 11% year-over-year growth in total billable subscribers to 2,482,000. Iridium's services are utilized across various sectors, including maritime, aviation, government, and IoT applications, with its Iridium Certus service offering up to 704 Kbps of bandwidth. The company's satellite phones, such as the Iridium 9575, are known for their durability and military-grade ruggedness. Iridium's partnership with other companies, like Garmin, enhances its global communication capabilities.

Inmarsat

Inmarsat is a leading British satellite telecommunications company, renowned for its global mobile services, including telephone and data solutions provided through its extensive network of 15 geostationary satellites. The company serves a wide range of clients, including governments, aid agencies, media outlets, and businesses in the shipping, airline, and mining industries. Inmarsat's Global Xpress network, launched in 2015, offers high-throughput services with speeds of up to 50 Mbit/s downlink and 5 Mbit/s uplink. The company holds a significant market share in the mobile satellite services industry, along with other dominant players like Iridium Communications and EchoStar, collectively holding around 24% of the market share. Inmarsat's services are critical for communication in remote regions and during emergencies, enhancing its position as a key player in the industry.

Thuraya

Thuraya Telecommunications is a leading producer of satellite phones, known for its innovative and robust devices. The company's Thuraya X5-Touch, launched in 2018, is the world's first satellite smartphone, running on the Android operating system and featuring a 5.2" full HD touchscreen, voice, data, and messaging capabilities, and a high-resolution camera. Thuraya's mobility division reported a 23% increase in revenue to $100 million in 2023, a record performance since its acquisition by Yahsat in 2018. The brand holds a significant market share, with 38% of the handheld market share by subscribers and 12% of the global market share by revenues. Thuraya's devices are widely used in various sectors, including energy projects, government missions, and enterprise communications. To learn more about choosing the ideal Thuraya satellite phone, visit their informative guide.

Globalstar

Globalstar is a leading provider in the mobile satellite phone market, known for its robust satellite constellation and innovative services. The company has seen significant growth, particularly with Apple's $1.7 billion investment to enhance its network, including a 20% equity stake and $1.1 billion in staggered cash prepayments. Globalstar's satellites support emergency services for iPhones and other devices, especially in areas with inadequate terrestrial network coverage. The company's network is set to expand with the launch of new satellites by SpaceX, further enhancing its capabilities. Globalstar's integration with terrestrial telecommunications infrastructure ensures seamless and reliable communication services.

Garmin

Garmin, through its inReach brand, stands as a leading producer of satellite phones, offering robust and reliable communication solutions. The Garmin inReach Messenger, for instance, provides global messaging, emergency SOS alerts, and long battery life of up to 28 days, leveraging the Iridium network for low-latency coverage. Garmin's market share in the mobile satellite phone market is significant, with the global market projected to reach $808.5 million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 3.9%. In the fitness wearables segment, Garmin's market share increased to 27% in 2024, highlighting its popularity. The company's revenue in the Outdoor segment was $486.38 million in the fourth quarter of 2023, contributing to its overall net sales revenue of $5.23 billion for the year.

BlueCosmo

BlueCosmo is a leading provider of satellite phones, rentals, and airtime plans, offering services on the Inmarsat and Iridium networks. Known for its flexible monthly plans and budget-friendly prepaid cards, BlueCosmo ensures convenient and affordable voice and data usage with no activation fees or long-term contracts on most plans. The company supports a range of devices, including the Iridium 9555 and Inmarsat IsatPhone 2, and offers clearance and refurbished options to cater to various needs. With 24/7 support, BlueCosmo is a reliable choice for those requiring dependable communication in remote or emergency situations. The global mobile satellite phone market, which BlueCosmo operates in, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.9% from 2022 to 2031, reaching $808.5 million by 2031.

Addvalue

Addvalue Technologies Ltd is a leading provider of satellite-based communication products, including mobile satellite terminals and other digital broadband solutions. The company, headquartered in Singapore, serves a global market across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Asia-Pacific, and North America. Addvalue's products are utilized in various applications such as maritime, aeronautical, and machine-to-machine communications, offering location tracking, IoT solutions, and 3G/4G LTE WAN routers. With a strong focus on product development and design services, Addvalue is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for satellite communications, particularly in areas with inadequate terrestrial network coverage. The company's innovative solutions are set to benefit from the expanding market of direct-to-device satellite services, projected to connect nearly 130 million users by 2032. For more information, visit Addvalue Technologies' company profile.

Satlink

Although Satlink is not explicitly identified as a key player in the mobile satellite phone market, this market is prominently dominated by companies such as Iridium Communications Inc., Globalstar, Inc., Thuraya Telecommunications Company, and Inmarsat Global Limited. These industry leaders are driving growth through advancements in LEO satellite technology, which is projected to expand at a CAGR of 3.9% from 2022 to 2031, ultimately reaching a market size of $808.5 million by 2031. The maritime and defense sectors serve as significant application areas, with North America holding the largest regional market share. The deployment of LEO satellites provides benefits such as faster data transfer and lower latency, thereby enhancing communication services in remote areas. You can find more details on the mobile satellite phone market.

Beam Communications

Beam Communications is a leading provider of satellite phone solutions, renowned for its reliability, robustness, and economical offerings. The company has seen significant growth, with a 67% increase in revenue to $40 million and a 189% rise in EBITDA to $4.3 million in the financial year ended 30 June 2023. Beam's products utilize the Iridium and Inmarsat networks, catering to global demand for mobile satellite solutions, which is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 7% to around $14.2 billion by 2030. The company's strong performance is attributed to increasing recurring revenues, successful new product launches, and exciting growth projects. Beam's partnership with Iridium Communications also contributes to its success, as Iridium reports strong growth in its business and subscriber numbers.

Thuraya's XT-LITE

Thuraya's XT-LITE is a top-tier satellite phone, renowned for its reliable and uninterrupted communications, especially in areas with no terrestrial network coverage. It offers up to 6 hours of talk time and 80 hours of standby time, making it ideal for users in remote or harsh environments. The XT-LITE supports calls and text messages in satellite mode, features an omni-directional antenna for seamless walk-and-talk functionality, and is supported by Thuraya's robust satellite network covering approximately 160 countries or two-thirds of the globe. This phone is also user-friendly, available in 13 languages, and includes a GPS function for navigation. Its compact and lightweight design, along with its long-lasting battery and rugged construction, make it a versatile tool for travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and professionals. For more details about the Thuraya XT-LITE Satellite Phone, visit the official page here.