The type locality is Aneityum, the southernmost island of Vanuatu.

[4][5] Two subspecies are recognised:[5] The satin swiftlet is around 10 cm (4 in) in length.

The tail feathers are dark but there are usually dull white spots on the inner webs.

[4] The subspecies albidior is larger and has large white spots on the inner webs of the tail feathers.

The upper breast is a paler grey with white margins to the feathers.