Bottom Line
The ZOLEO is a pretty impressive little device. It’s not perfect, but it brings something new to the table that other companies should take note of. The build quality feels solid, and the subscription plans are clean and competitive. What caught our attention is how the ZOLEO app keeps your conversations going seamlessly, whether you’re using a satellite or a regular cell/WiFi signal.
The ZOLEO has been our main satellite messages and we bring it on every trip with us. We take it hiking, mountain biking, camping, overlanding, etc. You get the point. Bottom line is when we are in the mountains or outside of cell service, we have the ZOLEO with us.
Everything has to be done through the app. It’s not a major issue for day-to-day use, but it would be nice to have a basic on-device messaging option (See Garmin Inreach) if something happens to your smartphone. But with the price discrepancy between the two offerings it’s worth asking yourself if the addition of on-device functionality is worth an additional $200.
SOS/Emergency Messaging
The nature of the local emergency response can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including your specific location but you can be sure the correct organization will be notified of your location and situation. By using the Zoleo app, you will also be able to message back and forth with emergency responders to provide critical updates.
Fortunately, we didn’t have to utilize the SOS messaging feature of the ZOLEO during our experiences. One thing we really appreciate is that you have the option to send a help message either through the app or directly from the device itself. This means that even if your smartphone is damaged, low on battery, or missing, you can still reach out for assistance in a critical situation.
Non-Emergency Messaging
Additionally, you have the option to send a pre-set “I’m OK” message from either the app or the ZOLEO device itself. This functionality is similar to what other products offer on the market. At the very least, having this feature, coupled with good communication with your emergency contacts, ensures that you can let people know you’re safe even if your smartphone gets damaged or lost.
Our only major desire is for the ZOLEO to allow viewing and composing of custom messages directly on the device itself. While it might be a bit cumbersome on a small device it would prove useful in situations where your smartphone is incapacitated. Being able to engage in valuable and nuanced two-way communication directly on the device would be incredibly valuable.
Signal Coverage
It’s important to note that the Iridium network provides coverage across the entire surface of the Earth. However, like any satellite communication system, it is susceptible to the common challenges that come with this technology. In order for the device to establish a connection, there must be an unobstructed “line of sight” between it and the satellite it’s communicating with. Obstacles such as trees, buildings, and rugged terrain can interfere with the signal. In our experience though, the obstructed line of sight usually just results in a delay in the time it takes to send and receive messages. We have not had messages or updates fail to send.
Since Iridium’s satellites orbit the Earth at a relatively low altitude, the signal strength can vary as the satellites move overhead. You may have a stable connection at one moment and lose it after a few minutes. Conversely, you might not currently have a signal, but it could appear shortly. It’s worth noting that in certain environments like dense forests, indoor areas, or narrow canyons, it may be challenging or even impossible (despite our experience with the device) to receive any satellite signal at all.
Ease of Use
It’s important to note that satellite communications, in general, tend to be slower and more cumbersome, regardless of the specific hardware or service used. While the ZOLEO performs on par with or better than most in this regard, it can never quite replicate the convenience of texting with a regular cell signal or WiFi connection. With that in mind, you’ll find the ZOLEO does exceptionally well and is easy to use.
One standout feature is the Bluetooth connection between the ZOLEO device and the app, which proved to be highly reliable during our testing. We intentionally attempted to “lose” the connection in various outdoor scenarios but were unsuccessful in doing so.
Portability
While there are slightly smaller options on the market, the differences are minimal. It’s remarkable to consider that we are now distinguishing between devices that weigh just 4 or 5 ounces (the ZOLEO weighs 5.3 ounces). While there may be scope for further reductions in size, the current level of portability offered by the ZOLEO is truly satisfying.
Should You Buy the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator?
The ZOLEO works well and is offered at a very competitive price point when put up against the competition. While we have a few things we would like to see changed with it, overall it is a good choice and worthy of consideration.
