Introduction
Satellite phones have made a huge advancement in recent years, providing reliable communication solutions in remote areas where traditional networks are absent. Iridium and Inmarsat are two leading companies providing global satellite voice and data communication services. Both companies have their unique strengths and limitations. In this post, we will provide a factual and unbiased comparison between Iridium and Inmarsat satellite phones.
Coverage
When it comes to coverage, Iridium takes the lead with its 66 satellites network covering every corner of the world. On the other hand, Inmarsat has a set of three geostationary satellites covering the majority of the world, except the polar regions. Therefore, If you need to travel to remote areas like Antarctica, get your hands on an Iridium device.
Call Quality
When it comes to call quality, both Iridium and Inmarsat provide clear communication. However, Iridium uses a LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellites network, which may lead to interruptions during calls when the satellite is obstructed by an obstacle. In contrast, Inmarsat uses a geostationary network, which provides better call quality, but at the cost of more latency.
Data Speed
Iridium and Inmarsat have different data speedsf. Iridium provides a maximum data speed of 128 Kbps with its newer devices, while Inmarsat provides a maximum data speed of 492 Kbps. Inmarsat's data speed is significantly better, but it also comes with a significantly higher price tag.
Battery Life
Both Iridium and Inmarsat devices come with rechargeable batteries, which can last for up to four hours of continuous calls (depending on the models). However, Iridium devices have swappable batteries, which is a significant advantage over Inmarsat devices for long trips without access to a power source.
Cost
The cost of these devices is always a key factor in any comparison. Iridium devices are generally less expensive than Inmarsat devices, with a variety of models ranging from $999 to $1,895. In contrast, Inmarsat devices are more expensive and come with a higher monthly plan. An Inmarsat device can cost between $1,495 to $3,495, plus a monthly plan of $40 to $330.
Conclusion
In summary, Iridium and Inmarsat have their unique strengths and limitations. However, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs. Are you traveling to remote areas where traditional networks are absent? Consider buying an Iridium device. Do you need a faster data speed? Get an Inmarsat device. Regardless of your choice, one thing to keep in mind is that these devices will provide reliable communication solutions in remote areas.