Satellite phones are undoubtedly one of the best inventions made so far. These seemingly-small devices can be quite useful when you cannot rely on traditional communication forms, like cellular phones, the internet, or something wired. If we explain things without involving jargon, satellite phones can help you make phone calls to any part of the world as long as you are in an area covered by satellites that orbit the earth.
What Are Satellite Phones?
Satellite phones, also known as sat phones, use earth-orbiting satellites to make phone calls to cellular and landline numbers. This invention has been designed to help people connect with the world, even when the ordinary, day-to-day communication techniques are not working.
Let’s imagine the situation of a hurricane or storm where cellular towers get destroyed. If you have a satellite phone with active service, you can maintain contact with the rest of the world. Unlike today’s smartphones, sat phones have limited features and follow a more traditional design philosophy.
Unlike the old days, however, satellite phones today come with additional features like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc. Thanks to the improving technologies, the call-time quality has also improved. This means you can enjoy a high-quality experience, no matter where you are.
How Do Satellite Phones Work?
In terms of communication technology, a satellite phone is a transceiver. It means the device can send and receive to and from satellites orbiting the earth. Therefore, when you switch on a satellite phone, it first gets registered on a constellation of satellites.
Depending on the satellite phone service that you have purchased, this constellation would vary. In any case, these signals sent from the satellite phone are sent to a Gateway station. This station would convert these signals to a cellular signal and forward them to the traditional cellular networks.
This process is done in reverse so that you hear back from the person. This process may again vary depending on the service and the coverage you expect. For instance, some companies may place call routing gateways in multiple spaces for the sake of better quality.
Why Are Satellite Phones Costly?
Of course, satellite phones are far more expensive than the standard connectivity options out there. I mean, you make use of the costly satellites orbiting the earth so that you can make reliable, far-reaching phone calls even if you are amidst a mountaineering trip or on your way to the hidden parts across the globe.
There are only a few satellites around the earth, and using one of these constellations is an expensive affair. If a satellite phone wants to provide you extensive cover, it needs to use the service of so many satellites — which means the costs also increase.
The Most Reliable Satellite Phones in 2020
Today, however, there is more than one satellite phone service provider in the market. Depending on your needs and situations, different satellite phones can become a suitable option. For instance, some people may need an extensive range while others prefer more comfortable calling tariffs.
In this article, we’ve covered the most reliable satellite phones you can buy in 2020.
#1 Iridium Extreme 9575N Satellite Phone
Iridium Extreme 9575N Satellite Phone is one of the best options in the market right now. This device comes with a durable design that can survive heavy storms and even the most challenging terrains. The maker has also included a rugged case for increased protection. Depending on your purpose, you can get an excellent satellite phone service plan as well. You can know more about this product and other satellite phones here.
#2 Inmarsat IsatPhone 2 Satellite Phone
Inmarsat IsatPhone 2 Satellite Phone is a more affordable option you can check out today. This one comes with a comparatively modern design and offers some extra options like contacts and Bluetooth. We also find that the satellite phone plans for this device are cost-effective. Then, again, reliability and coverage are two things you should scrutinize on your own.
#3 Thuraya X5-Touch Satellite Smartphone
Thuraya X5-Touch Satellite Smartphone is one of the very few satellite-based Android smartphones you can get today. Sure, you have to pay a lot more for the device and the plans, but you can do almost everything you do on an Android smartphone. This means you can enjoy high-quality apps and internet browsing — no matter where you are.
#4 Globalstar GSP-1700 Satellite Phone
Globalstar GSP-1700 Satellite Phone belongs to the affordable set of satellite phones in the market. You can get one of these models for the price of an expensive meal from a restaurant. Once you get it, however, you can enjoy an extensive talk-time and ergonomic design. Users also opinionate that the service on this device is pretty excellent.
#5 Iridium GO! Wi-Fi Smartphone
Iridium GO! Wi-Fi Smartphone is a different device in that it allows you to make voice calls and data requests via the satellite network. The best part is that you can connect up to five devices to this Wi-Fi adaptor device. Using the official app, you can make voice calls as well. This is an excellent option if you prioritize a reliable internet connection as you need a voice call service.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, there are so many options when you need a reliable satellite phone. While they are expensive than a typical smartphone, you cannot overlook the potential help it can give you. Even when the terrestrial communication systems go down, you can count on those satellites that keep an eye on all of us! We think that’s pretty awesome and that you’re lucky to get a satellite phone.
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