Starlink internet 2024: Innovating satellite technology
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What is Starlink?
Starlink is the first satellite internet provider to offer an unlimited home internet service. A satellite internet connection uses satellites, large structures with solar panels and sensors, to relay an internet signal from Earth to another location. Started in 2019 as a SpaceX project, Starlink offers residential and business internet service in nearly 100% of the country.
While Starlink plans and equipment fees are more expensive than other internet providers, Starlink Wi-Fi covers many areas that traditional connections cannot reach. Starlink internet also specializes in bringing Wi-Fi to mobile locations like boats and campers.
Starlink internet plans, speeds and pricing
Choose between Starlink’s Residential, Roam or Boats internet plans. Standard inland data is unlimited, but you may experience speed throttling slowdowns due to priority plan demand. The cost for the Boats plan is determined by the amount of priority data you select. To determine how much is Starlink internet, review the pricing, speeds and fees in the following table.
| Plan | Price range* | Download speeds | Data limit | Equipment fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residential | $120/mo. | 25–220 Mbps | Unlimited | $599 |
| Roam | $150/mo. | Varies | Unlimited inland data | $599 |
Boats | $150–$1,000/mo. | Varies | Unlimited inland data; priority data from 50 GB–1 TB | $2,500 |
Methodology
We rated the largest internet providers in the U.S. for 2024. Each provider was rated on a scale of 1 to 5 based on over a dozen factors, including speed, cost, availability, fees, customer satisfaction, connection type and more. We also used data from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to compare the average speed offered by internet companies in the U.S. to set a baseline for what is considered a good internet speed. Additionally, we analyzed data from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) to understand how each internet service provider (ISP) fares in customer service and perceived value.
How we reviewed Starlink
Overall score: 3.2 out of 5.
Starlink earned a 3.2 out of 5 on our internet provider ranking scale, outperforming satellite competitors Hughesnet and Viasat by a full point. Features that increased Starlink’s rating include its no-contract plans and unlimited data options. While Starlink internet speed and pricing are similar to those of other satellite providers, they are less favorable compared to cable and fiber internet. Still, Starlink’s 99.68% coverage across the U.S. is unmatched by any traditional cable or fiber connection.
Starlink internet pros and cons
Pros
No-contract plans.
Accessible for mobile vehicles.
Download speeds faster than other satellite providers.
Cons
Rates start at $120/mo. and up.
You are responsible for installing your satellite.
Expensive equipment costs.
Starlink internet plan breakdown
Starlink internet is accessible to 99% of the U.S. and the surrounding oceans, which is why the three Starlink internet plans cater to homes, mobile locations and boats.
All Starlink plans include a 30-day trial that begins on the activation day. So, how much is Starlink internet, including equipment and fees? Find Starlink reviews and details for all plans in the following section.
Residential – Best for conventional homes
Starlink Wi-Fi for home service is $120/mo. for unlimited internet without a contract. This plan is best for rural homes or other fixed locations with average internet use. This home Wi-Fi plan offers good internet speeds to support browsing, streaming, shopping, reading and listening to music or podcasts.
- Expected speeds: While the expected speeds with Starlink Standard service plans are between 25–100 Mbps, Starlink states that a majority of users receive speeds above 100 Mbps.
- Starlink speeds by area: This Starlink map shows average speed ranges by location. The western part of the U.S. generally gets about 50% faster speeds than the southeastern states.
- Starlink equipment: Hardware includes a dual-band Wi-Fi router and a phased array antenna, a 21.4” tall panel set at an angle to be mounted on your roof. The satellite can withstand inclement weather, including sleet, high winds and temperatures between -22 and 122°F.
Roam – Best for RVs
The Roam plan is ideal for an on-the-go lifestyle because it allows you to pause the internet service an unlimited number of times. Campers, RVs and other travel or mobile residences should use this Starlink RV service for the ultimate billing flexibility.
- Pricing: This mobile plan is $150/mo. and includes unlimited data when used inland. Plus, the smaller, more portable array recommended with this plan is better for travel.
- Pausing Starlink service: To pause Starlink internet service, log into your Starlink account > Your Starlink > Manage > Pause Service.
- Delay Starlink service: If you’re planning a trip and want to set up your Starlink equipment but don’t need internet service immediately, you can pause your plan before activation to delay your first bill. Your first bill will be issued when you unpause your service.
Boats – Best for maritime use
Starlink Boats plan is best for maritime use, especially emergency responders. This Starlink internet service can be used in the ocean or on a vehicle in motion.
- Unlimited data: Standard data is unlimited when inland
- Mobile priority data: Choose from three data packets at $250/mo. for 50 GB, $1,000/mo. for 1 TB and $5,000 for 5 TB. This bandwidth is what you pull from when you are not at a fixed inland location.
- Equipment costs: and equipment costs $2,500 for the high-performance array.
Starlink business internet
Get business internet with priority network and priority support.
- Network priority means that when the Starlink network is busier than normal, priority plans will maintain faster speeds, while standard plans may experience a slowdown.
- Priority data packet monthly costs are $140 for 40 GB, $250 for 1 TB, $500 for 2 TB and $1,500 for 6 TB.
- Equipment with the priority plan is the flat high-performance array antenna for $2,500, which has a broader GPS to connect with more satellites.
Starlink additional payments and fees
Starlink ships the necessary equipment to install, unlike other satellite providers, which require a privacy professional installation. Typically, you must purchase the equipment in full; however, in select areas, you have the option to rent it for a monthly fee. Learn more about Starlink installation and equipment fees here.
Starlink installation fees
Technically, Starlink internet does not have an installation fee, but unless you are comfortable with drilling a satellite to your roof, you will need to hire a local installer to set up the equipment. This arrangement leaves most customers with an extra step to accomplish on their own before using the internet service. It also removes any liability from Starlink in case of a botched installation. Professional installation from a third party usually runs between $100 and $300.
Starlink equipment fees
Starlink offers two equipment packages for $599 or $2,500 and optional mounting accessories for $35 to $74. Depending on the plan, shipping is $20 to $100, and taxes vary based on location. You can also purchase Starlink equipment from third-party retailers, such as Best Buy, which offers free in-store pickup and free shipping.
Customers in certain regions can purchase reduced-price refurbished equipment or rent/finance it for a monthly fee. If these options are available in your area, they will appear when you check your address on the Starlink site. The rental option includes an upfront activation fee.
Stable Starlink pricing
While Starlink may occasionally adjust its monthly service rates, its pricing remains fairly consistent. Unlike other satellite providers that offer promotional rates followed by steep price hikes, Starlink’s rates are not introductory, ensuring you won’t face sudden increases on your bill after a short period.
Starlink vs. other internet providers
While Starlink internet’s availability is equivalent to other satellite providers, its coverage is significantly broader than major companies like Spectrum, Xfinity and T-Mobile. Learn more about additional distinctions between Starlink and other internet service providers, then compare prices, speeds and availability in the following table:
- Rural coverage: Starlink has extensive rural internet coverage compared to hard-wired cable and fiber ISPs (e.g., AT&T, Cox, Frontier).
- Price differences: Cable, fiber and 5G internet offer cheap internet plans compared to Starlink, with average starting prices of $50/mo. in contrast to Starlink’s $120 monthly rate.
- Speed disparity: Cable, fiber and 5G frequently offer 1 gigabit speeds, and the availability of multi-gig speeds is on the rise, making these connections faster than Starlink satellite internet.
- Versus other satellite providers: How fast is Starlink internet compared to rival satellite providers? Top Starlink speeds are up to twice as fast as Hughesnet or Viasat.
| Provider | Speed range | Starting price* | Connection type | U.S. availability** |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starlink | 25–500 Mbps | $120/mo. | Satellite | 99.6% |
| Hughesnet | 25–50 Mbps | $49.99/mo. | Satellite | 99.6% |
| Viasat | 25–150 Mbps | $119.99/mo. | Satellite | 97.9% |
| Spectrum Internet® | 500–1,000 Mbps | $50/mo. | Cable | 29.1% |
| T-Mobile 5G Home | 72–245 Mbps | $60/mo. | 5G | 57.9% |
| Verizon Fios | 300–940 Mbps | $49.99/mo. | Fiber | 8.9% |
| Xfinity | 50–6,000 Mbps | $9.95/mo. | Cable | 34.5% |
**Source: FCC National Broadband Map.
Is Starlink worth it?
Starlink is worth considering if you can cover the upfront equipment cost and have more flexibility in your monthly internet budget. At $120/mo., Starlink internet plans are more expensive than Hughesnet but typically supply faster speeds.
While Hughesnet and Viasat have lower equipment costs ($299.99 and $250, respectively) with the option to rent, Starlink requires a larger upfront investment of $599 or $2,500, with limited rental options.
Starlink availability and coverage map
Starlink satellite service is among the most accessible internet options, providing coverage to remote or secluded areas that fiber or cable internet connections cannot easily reach. According to the FCC National Broadband Map, Starlink is available to 99.6% of the U.S., including the following cities:
Starlink coverage is expanding in late 2024 to include West Virginia, upstate New York, and northern Michigan, Ohio and New Mexico (refer to the Starlink map).
Starlink expansion and future outlook
Starlink continues to expand in 2024 as the global demand for broadband grows, especially in hard-to-reach areas. The satellite provider offers service on all seven continents and now reaches three million users in 99 countries. Starlink continues to launch new satellites at a rapid pace, concerning some scientists who say the deluge of satellites is interfering with astronomical photos and data collection, according to EarthSky.
If you’re interested in finding a Starlink satellite in your area, use the Starlink Tracker to search by your city or coordinates. The Starlink map also details the current location of satellites worldwide.
Starlink Internet FAQs
How much is Starlink internet?
Starlink’s standard residential service includes unlimited data for $120/mo. and equipment fees range from $599 to $2,500 depending on the plan.
Is Starlink available in my area?
Starlink has nearly 100% U.S. availability and a rigorous expansion schedule for 2024. Check the Starlink map to determine if the service is in your area before switching internet providers.
How many satellites does Starlink have in orbit?
Over 5,000 SpaceX satellites are in orbit, and another 144 missions are planned for 2024, each launching dozens more small low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites.
How do I connect Starlink internet?
To connect your Starlink internet service, determine the best location for your array to get a clear view of the sky and plug it in. The array should automatically adjust to the best angle for receiving the satellite signals.
How do I contact Starlink customer service?
Log in to your Starlink account online or in the Starlink app to access Starlink email. Select “contact support” for Starlink cancellation inquiries on the Starlink support page.
How fast is Starlink internet?
Starlink internet ranges from 25–220 Mbps download and 5–20 Mbps upload. Your Starlink internet download and upload speed may vary based on location and other factors. Most users get over 100 Mbps download speeds, according to Starlink.
Is Starlink faster than 5G?
Starlink is faster than some 5G internet providers but slower than others. Both satellite and 5G home internet speeds vary depending on location, so the best connection type can differ based on where you are. Starlink offers speeds of up to 220 Mbps, while T-Mobile 5G Home Internet provides 72–245 Mbps and Verizon 5G Home Internet ranges from 85–1,000 Mbps. However, Starlink’s latency (25–60 ms) can be up to twice as high as 5G services (up to 30 ms), which can negatively impact online activities like streaming and gaming.
Is Starlink fast enough for streaming?
Starlink internet speed is fast enough for streaming. Leading streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ and fuboTV require 5–10 Mbps for high-definition (HD) streaming. With Starlink internet speed offering 25–220 Mbps, those speed conditions are well within that range. Keep in mind that minimum streaming speeds are calculated for one connected device. Therefore, faster speeds may be necessary if you stream on multiple devices at once. Get an assessment of your current internet speed by using one of these best internet speed tests.
How many devices can you connect to Starlink?
The number of devices you can connect to Starlink satellite internet depends on the Starlink internet speed you receive at your home and your online activities. For instance, with a higher speed, you should be able to connect more devices, However, simultaneous streaming on multiple devices uses more bandwidth compared to multiple devices performing simpler online tasks like email or browsing.
Is Starlink unlimited data?
Yes, Starlink internet offers unlimited data; however, according to the Starlink Fair Use Policy, the provider reserves the right to manage their network according to user demand.
Can I pause Starlink internet?
Starlink Roam or Boat service can be paused and resumed an indefinite number of times, but Starlink’s residential fixed service cannot be paused.
This content is produced through an alliance between USA TODAY and Allconnect.com. Under the alliance, Allconnect publishes articles about broadband-related topics upholding strict editorial integrity standards in line with USA TODAY’s Principles of Ethical Conduct. The opinions, analyses, reviews and recommendations expressed are those of the Allconnect editorial staff alone. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Read more about our Allconnect Advertising Disclosure.
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