Are you considering buying a satellite phone but aren't sure which one to choose? Two of the most popular options on the market are Globalstar and Thuraya. But which one is better? In this blog post, we provide a factual comparison between the two phones to help you make an informed decision.
Coverage Area
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a satellite phone is coverage area. Globalstar operates a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network, which covers most of the Earth's surface from 70 degrees north to 70 degrees south. Thuraya, on the other hand, uses geosynchronous satellites that cover most of Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia.
According to Globalstar's coverage map, their network covers 120 countries, while Thuraya's coverage map shows coverage in 161 countries.
Voice and Data Services
Both Globalstar and Thuraya offer voice and data services. Globalstar's voice service is 9.6 kbps, which is equivalent to a landline phone. Its data service, however, is slower than Thuraya's, with a maximum data speed of 28.8 kbps.
Thuraya's voice service is also 9.6 kbps, but its data service is much faster, with a maximum data speed of 384 kbps.
Battery Life
When it comes to battery life, Globalstar claims that its GSP-1700 phone has a talk time of up to 4 hours and a standby time of up to 36 hours. Thuraya, on the other hand, claims that its XT-LITE phone has a talk time of up to 6 hours and a standby time of up to 80 hours.
Cost
The cost of satellite phones can vary depending on the model and service plan. However, on average, Globalstar phones tend to be slightly cheaper than Thuraya phones. For example, the GSP-1700 can be purchased for around $500, while the Thuraya XT-LITE costs around $600.
Conclusion
Both Globalstar and Thuraya offer reliable satellite phone services, but each has its strengths and weaknesses. For users who require faster data speeds and longer battery life, Thuraya may be the best option. However, if cost is a major factor, Globalstar may be the better choice.
Ultimately, the choice between Globalstar and Thuraya depends on your specific needs and requirements. We hope this comparison has provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
References
- Globalstar. (n.d.). Globalstar Coverage Map. Retrieved October 19, 2021, from https://www.globalstar.com/en-us/coverage-map
- Thuraya. (n.d.). Thuraya Network Coverage. Retrieved October 19, 2021, from https://www.thuraya.com/coverage
- Globalstar. (n.d.). GSP-1700. Retrieved October 19, 2021, from https://www.globalstar.com/en-us/solutions/gsp-1700
- Thuraya. (n.d.). XT-LITE. Retrieved October 19, 2021, from https://www.thuraya.com/phones/thuraya-xt-lite