Do you travel frequently and often find yourself "off the grid?" Or maybe you're someone who enjoys far-out exploration, but not without the expense of losing all connection and reachability? If so, traditional smartphones are surprisingly not your best bet. Instead, you'll want to consider a satellite phone. 

While referring to it as a "sat phone" may add to the overall secret agent vibe, these phones and devices are more widely available and useful than you might think, with several options to choose from. Although, I'll be candid about the downside upfront: Accessing a satellite network does require a subscription of a usually hefty price. (However, it appears that satellite messaging could be coming to Android 14 soon.)

Also: The best rugged phones

Nonetheless, if you're interested in staying connected wherever you may roam, conducted extensive research and went hands-on with some of the best satellite phones and gadgets. Our top choice, theIridium GO! can connect up to five devices to its hotspot, supports up to five hours of talk time, and is highly durable. 

Read the full list to see how other favorite models from Spot, Garmin, and more compare in terms of features and find which is best for your habits and budget. 

The best satellite phones of 2023

Iridium Go!

Best satellite phone and gadget overall

• Acts as a satellite hotspot so that multiple devices can connect to it
• Good battery life
• Good selection of accessories

• Expensive

Iridium GO! tech specs:  Dimensions: 114 x 82 x 32 mm  Weight: 305g  Services: Satellite calls and satellite SMS  Battery life:Talk time: 5.5 hr., standby time: 15.5 hr.Operating temperatures: 50