How Much Do Satellite Phones Cost?
A reputable and reliable device costs $600, while another major player in the market offers the Iridium 9555 for $1000. The latest flagship model from Iridium, the Extreme 9575, is priced at $1240.
Satellite phones are devices that allow you to make and receive calls using satellites orbiting the Earth, instead of relying on cellular or landline networks. They are ideal for people who travel or work in remote areas where conventional communication services are unavailable or unreliable. But how much do satellite phones cost, and what are the factors that affect their price?
The cost of a satellite phone depends on several factors, such as the model of the phone, the features it offers, the network it uses, and the service plan you choose. In 2023, a new satellite phone can cost anywhere from $350 to $1600, while a used one can be cheaper but may not have a warranty or the same modern features as a new one1.
The model of the phone determines the quality, durability, and functionality of the device. Some of the most popular satellite phone brands are Iridium, Inmarsat, and Thuraya. Each brand has different models that vary in size, weight, battery life, display, antenna, GPS, SOS, data connectivity, data speed, and other features. For example, the Iridium Extreme 9575 is one of the most advanced and rugged satellite phones available, with a price tag of $1,4502. The Inmarsat IsatPhone 2 is a more affordable option that offers global coverage (except for the poles), a color display, and an SOS button, for $8992. The Thuraya X5-TOUCH is the world’s first Android-based satellite phone that also supports GSM networks, with a touchscreen display, a camera, and Bluetooth connectivity, for $1,3993.
The network of the phone determines the coverage, reliability, and quality of the service. There are three main satellite networks that provide voice and data services: Iridium, Inmarsat, and Globalstar. Iridium has the largest and most reliable network, with 66 low Earth orbit satellites that cover every inch of the planet. Inmarsat has three geostationary satellites that cover most of the globe (except for the poles), but require a clear line of sight to the sky. Globalstar has 24 low Earth orbit satellites that cover most of North America, Europe, Australia, and parts of Asia and Africa, but have limited coverage in other regions and may experience signal interruptions.
Sevice Uses
The service plan of the phone determines how much you pay for using the device. There are different types of plans available depending on your usage needs and preferences. You can choose between monthly plans, annual plans, or prepaid plans. Monthly plans charge you a fixed fee every month for a certain amount of minutes and data. Annual plans charge you a one-time fee for a year-long service with a certain amount of minutes and data. Prepaid plans charge you upfront for a certain amount of minutes and data that you can use within a specified period. The cost of these plans varies depending on the network provider and the amount of minutes and data you need. For example, an Iridium monthly plan can cost between $50 and $150 per month for 10 to 150 minutes2. An Inmarsat annual plan can cost between $600 and $1200 per year for 600 to 1200 minutes2. A Globalstar prepaid plan can cost between $100 and $500 for 120 to 960 minutes valid for 90 to 365 days4.
In conclusion, satellite phones are valuable communication devices that can help you stay connected in remote areas where conventional services are not available or reliable. However, they are not cheap devices and require careful consideration before buying one. The cost of a satellite phone depends on the model of the phone, the network it uses, and the service plan you choose. In 2023, a new satellite phone can cost anywhere from $350 to $1600, while a used one can be cheaper but may not have a warranty or the same modern features as a new one. You also need to pay for using the device according to your usage needs and preferences. You can choose between monthly plans, annual plans, or prepaid plans that vary in price depending on the network provider and the amount of minutes and data you need.
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