Which Satellite communication device to choose?

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When you’re out in the wilderness, far from the reach of cell towers, staying connected can be a challenge. That’s where satellite communication device come in. Whether you’re on a remote hike, sailing in the open ocean, or working in a distant location, devices like satellite phones, the Iridium GO!, and ZOLEO can keep you in touch with the world. In this blog, we’ll break down what these devices do, how they work, and why they’re essential for anyone who needs reliable communication in the most remote places.

Discover different types of Satellite communicators

Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone

A satellite phone, or satphone, is a mobile communication device that connects directly to satellites orbiting the Earth, rather than relying on terrestrial cell towers. It has a monochome screen and a keypad just like mobile phones in the old days.

The Iridium 9555 Satellite phone is straightforward and easy to use. Just make sure you have a clear view of the sky and satellites, extend the retractable antenna, dial the number, and press call. You can also send and receive SMS, access voicemail, save contacts in the phonebook, and customize your phone settings, just like you would with a regular mobile phone.

If you’re simply looking for a device that allows you to call and send messages in remote area, this will be your choice!

Iridium Extreme 9575 Satellite Phone

The Iridium extreme 9575 is a trusty companion for anyone needing worldwide coverage. It’s incredibly tough and dependable. It is an upgrade of the 9555, which adds on GPS and SOS button. Since satellite phones delay as they might not get immediate reliable satellite connections, the SOS button might safe your life!

The SOS button can be set up to initiate message/call to your emergency contacts. Besides, it also allows you to register with GEOS Emergency Response Center.

To Register with GEOS 

  1. Configure your device for use with GEOS.
  2. Navigate to www.geosalliance.com/iridium
  3. Fill in the registration form and your details. 

Iridium GO!

Iridium GO! is a hotspot device where you can pair it up with your smartphone/ tablet within 30m range. It can connect up to 5 device but only one device can use the satellite service at a time. It has its own speaker but there is no microphone, when there is an incoming call, both Iridium GO! and your device rings. Besides, it also has the SOS button, location tracking email and weather forecast function.

The Iridium GO! is more affordable than a satellite phone and compact enough to fit in your hand, be carried in a backpack, or mounted in a cabin, vehicle, or vessel for semi-fixed use.

Download the app and pair it up with Iridium GO! device:

Google Play: Download here

App Store: Download here

For Satellite email, you have to register through the portal and use another app:

To register: Register here

Google Play: Download here

App Store: Download here

Zoleo

The ZOLEO satellite communication device is a budget friendly and reliable device designed to keep you connected wherever you are. This compact and rugged device bridges the gap between your smartphone and satellite networks, ensuring seamless communication even in the most remote locations.

With ZOLEO, you can send and receive messages, share your GPS location, and access weather updates through a user-friendly app. ZOLEO doesn’t allow you to make calls, but does it really matters?

For ZOLEO, you can choose from their monthly plans as low as $32 per month with unlimited check-in messages. An optional Add-on Subscription for Location Share+ with only $7.95/month for automatic updates on location sharing to your contacts.

Download the app and pair it up with ZOLEO device:

Google Play: Download here

Apple Store: Download here

So which device should I choose?

Well, it depends on a few conditions. You might want to begin by asking yourself a few questions: Do you need to make regular phone calls, or just sending texts is fine? Would you rather use your own device? What’s your budget? How long is your trip? If you only need it for this trip, why not consider hiring one?

Comparison Chart for the devices:

Iridium Extreme
Iridium 9555
Iridium GO!
ZOLEO

Satellite Coverage

Gobal

Gobal

Gobal

Gobal

Call

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Text messaging

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Location tracking

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Emergency SOS

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Dimensions

5.51 x 2.36 x 1.06in

5.63 x 2.17 x 1.18in

4.5 x 3.25 x 1.25in

3.6 x 2.6 x 1.06 in

Display screen

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Battery Life

4 hours talk,
30 hours standby

3.1 hours talk,
30 hours standby

7 hours talk,
16 hours standby

200 hours

Weather forecast

No

No

Yes

Yes

Don’t worry about the phone plans. We are one of Pivotel dealer and we can help you to get connected from month-to-month or 12 month plans! Our staff are extremely experienced, and can help you find the right device for your needs! Give us a call, we’d love to give you a hand!


Interested in some of the Satellite communication device mentioned? Check out these products online, or come in store to see our full range!

Satellite Communication device