ZOLEO Satellite Communicator Review: Real-World Testing in the UK Mountains

Earlier this year, the team at Global Telesat Communications kindly sent us a ZOLEO Satellite Communicator to test. For full transparency, we weren’t paid for this review—the device was provided purely for evaluation purposes. We were happy to try it out, knowing that satellite communicators are becoming increasingly popular. Testing it in mountainous terrain seemed like a valuable exercise that could benefit our clients. I (Matt) spent the last two months using the device across the mountains of Wales and Scotland.

Who is ZOLEO?

ZOLEO is a joint venture between Roadpost and Beam Communications, two companies with proven expertise in satellite communication and lone worker safety. Their combined experience made for a strong partnership, aiming to offer a credible alternative to the Garmin inReach system.

Since its launch, ZOLEO has positioned itself as a leading contender in the high-end satellite communicator market, serving both recreational users and professionals.

What Is the ZOLEO Device?

The ZOLEO is a compact, lightweight satellite communicator that pairs with your smartphone via Bluetooth. It allows you to send and receive messages, share your location, and access weather updates—even when you're off the grid. Unlike some competitors, it doesn't require a screen or complex interface on the device itself; instead, it leverages your phone's capabilities through the ZOLEO app.

Key features include:

Two-way messaging via Iridium satellite, Wi-Fi, or mobile GSM networks.
SOS button with 24/7 emergency monitoring.
Check-in button to send pre-set messages and GPS coordinates.
Location sharing for real-time tracking.
Weather updates powered by Dark Sky.
Medical Assist for 24/7 non-emergency medical advice.

Performance and Usability

The ZOLEO device is genuinely impressive. While it’s slightly larger than the Garmin inReach, the weight is comparable, so it still feels portable. Unlike some competitors, the ZOLEO doesn’t have a built-in digital screen. Instead, it pairs with your smartphone, allowing for seamless, integrated use. The SOS function, however, works independently of your phone—a crucial feature for situations where your phone fails or runs out of battery.

The device is IP68 rated, meaning it’s both waterproof and dustproof, built to withstand tough conditions. I tested it in heavy rain and cold weather, and it performed flawlessly—battery life and functionality remained unaffected. We didn’t get the chance to test it in full winter conditions due to the time of year we tested it.

Battery life is comparable to that of other top-tier satellite communicators. With minimal use, it can last about a week on a full charge. When using the tracking function continuously, the battery lasts around 24 hours, which is more than sufficient for most day trips or short expeditions.

Another standout feature of the ZOLEO is its dedicated mobile phone number. You can share this number with friends or family, allowing them to contact you directly. It’s a smart, user-friendly feature that really sets ZOLEO apart from many competitors.

Pricing and Subscription Plans

ZOLEO UK Subscription Plans

Like other top-tier satellite communicators, ZOLEO requires an initial connection fee followed by a monthly subscription. The plans are flexible, allowing you to upgrade or downgrade based on your needs—so you’re not paying for more than you actually use when you’re off the trails.

	Monthly Cost	Included Satellite Messages	Additional Messages	Location Share+ Add On
Basic	£18	75	£0.55 each	£4.50/month
In Touch	£32	300	£0.55 each	£4.50/month
Unlimited	£58	Unlimited	Free	£4.50/month

Key Features Across All Plans:

Unlimited check-in messages
Unlimited mobile network & Wi-Fi messages
Satellite SOS alerts with 24/7 monitoring
Medical Assist (24/7 access to non-emergency medical advice)
Your own ZOLEO SMS number and email address

Final Thoughts

After spending time using the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator in the mountains of Wales and Scotland, I have to say I was genuinely impressed. The device’s functionality is excellent, and the accompanying app works seamlessly, making sending messages, sharing locations, and checking in effortless. The absence of a built-in digital screen doesn’t detract from the experience at all—pairing with your smartphone makes the interface intuitive and easy to navigate.

What really stands out is the price. At just £179, ZOLEO is significantly cheaper than many rival top-tier satellite communicators, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a reliable, feature-rich device without breaking the bank. For Climbers, Mountaineers, Hikers, or professionals needing dependable off-grid communication, ZOLEO offers incredible value and performance.

Check out https://gtc.co.uk/products/zoleo