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Buying Guide for Satellite Trackers & Communicators
At Global Telesat Communications we sell a range of satellite communications and tracking products and use various satellite networks including Globalstar and Iridium. Making a decision on the most suitable product to use can be confusing, so we have created these buying guides to help you find the perfect satellite communications product for your requirements. If you need assistance before making a purchase please call us on 0800 112 3919 to discuss your requirements.
Things to Remember About Satellite Trackers & communicators
When choosing a satellite tracker or communicator, it is important to understand that these devices work differently from everyday smartphones and rely on a clear view of the sky rather than mobile networks. Coverage and performance can vary by satellite network and region, so it is always worth checking coverage in advance to make sure the device is suitable for where you will be using it. Some models focus on simple tracking and SOS functions, while more advanced communicators support two-way messaging and location sharing, so you should decide which features are genuinely useful for your trip or deployment before you go. Finally, consider how you want to communicate while off-grid, whether you only need check-ins and emergency alerts or the ability to exchange messages back and forth with contacts, as this will help narrow down the right device.
Satellite Tracker Comparison
| Garmin inReach Mini 2 | ZOLEO | SPOT Gen4 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price Inc. VAT | £239.94 | £149.00 | £123.95 |
| Satellite Network | Iridium | Iridium | Globalstar |
| Coverage | Global | Global | Global |
| Device Type | Two-way communicator | Two-way communicator | One-way tracker |
| Two-Way Messaging | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | — No |
| Pre-Set Messages / Check-ins | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Emergency SOS | Yes – 24/7 monitoring | Yes – 24/7 monitoring | Yes – 24/7 monitoring |
| Tracking | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Tracking Intervals | Customisable Plan dependent |
Plan dependent | 2.5, 5, 10 or 30 mins Plan dependent |
| Smartphone Pairing | Yes Garmin Explore app |
Yes ZOLEO app |
Optional |
| Navigation Features | Basic on-device navigation | — No | — No |
| Battery Life | Up to 14 days 10-minute tracking |
Up to 200 hours Standby |
Up to 1,250 Check-in messages |
| Weight | 100g | 150g | 142g With batteries |
| Durability | IPX7 MIL-STD-810 |
IP68 | IP68 |
| Subscription Required | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Best For | Messaging, navigation & SOS | Smartphone messaging & SOS | Simple tracking & SOS |
| Learn More | View Garmin | View ZOLEO | View SPOT |
Tracker Subscription Rates
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. These devices communicate via satellite, so they continue to work well beyond mobile coverage. Some models can also use mobile networks or Wi-Fi when available, but their core safety, tracking, and SOS features rely on satellites.
A tracker mainly sends your location, check-ins, and SOS alerts, often using pre-set messages. A communicator adds two-way messaging, so you can send and receive messages rather than just broadcasting updates.
It depends on the device. Two-way communicators allow full back-and-forth messaging. Simpler trackers usually only send pre-defined messages and cannot receive replies.
Yes. An active plan is required for satellite messaging, tracking, and SOS features. If you only use your device seasonally or for specific trips, it’s worth choosing a plan that offers flexibility rather than paying year-round.
When activated, SOS alerts are routed to a 24/7 emergency response centre that coordinates with local rescue services. Reliability depends on having a clear view of the sky, but these systems are designed specifically for emergency use.
Dense tree cover, steep terrain, or deep valleys can slow message delivery, but they rarely prevent it completely. Giving the device a clearer view of the sky improves performance. Weather has far less impact than physical obstructions.
Battery life depends heavily on tracking frequency, messaging use, and power settings. Frequent tracking updates use more power, while longer intervals and power-saving modes can extend runtime significantly.
Most devices allow you to share a live tracking link that others can view online. Update frequency depends on your settings and plan, so you can choose between frequent updates or longer intervals.
No. These devices are designed for straightforward use, especially in stressful situations. That said, it’s strongly recommended to set up contacts, messages, and tracking links before you leave, and to practise using the device once or twice.
Start by asking one question: do you need real conversations, or just location sharing and SOS? If messaging matters, choose a two-way communicator. If you mainly want tracking and emergency alerts, a simpler tracker may be the better fit.