Manufacturers describe satellite phones as "global" or advertise that they work "everywhere". Be careful. It's not exactly true!

Yes, they work where cell phones can't and in the middle of nowhere, but many times they don't work at all. Before you decide to buy your own satellite phone, there are a few limitations you should be aware of.

Key Limitations

Line of Sight Required

The satellites must be able to "see" a phone's antenna. You must be outdoors with the antenna facing up and a clear view of the sky. You can't leave it in your pocket and expect to receive calls.

Large and Bulky

They're significantly larger and heavier compared to modern cell phones. Think mid-90's cell phone size with a prominent antenna.

Slow Data

They have slow, inconsistent data capabilities and require 3rd party apps for speed optimization. Don't expect smartphone-level internet access.

Limited Functionality

Functionality is limited - not even close to "smart." Expect basic voice calls, SMS, and maybe simple email.

Expensive

Prices start at $500+ for the phone, plus service plans over $1 per minute. Inbound calls from land lines can cost up to $10 per minute.

Voice Quality

Compared to cellular, voice quality is lower. There is also delay (latency) between speakers that takes getting used to.

Who Should Buy a Satellite Phone?

Combine these factors and you can see satellite phones are far from replacing cellular phones. For many people though, they are an indispensable supplement that fills large gaps in cellular and terrestrial coverage.

Satellite phones are a great choice when:

  • Terrestrial infrastructure is unavailable or damaged
  • The cost to deploy new infrastructure is prohibitive
  • You need reliable communication in remote areas
  • Emergency communication is critical for your activities
  • You travel to regions with poor cellular coverage

Optimal Performance

For the best satellite phone performance, you'll need an unobstructed view of the satellites. Mountains, dense forests, and buildings can all block signals and cause dropped calls.

Ready to Continue?

If a satellite phone still sounds right for your needs, the next step is to understand the different satellite networks and how they affect coverage and performance in your area.