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. Started in 2019 as a SpaceX project, the company offers residential and business internet service in nearly 100% of the country. While Starlink plans and equipment fees are more expensive compared to other internet providers, Starlink Wi-Fi covers many areas that traditional connections cannot reach. Starlink also specializes in bringing Wi-Fi to mobile locations like boats and campers.
Starlink internet plans, speeds and prices
Choose between Starlink’s Residential, Roam or Boats internet plans. Standard inland data is unlimited, but speeds may slow down due to priority plan demand. The cost for the Boats plan is determined by the amount of priority data you select. Find Starlink cost structure, 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, a full point above other satellite services from Hughesnet and Viasat. Features that increased Starlink’s rating were its no-contract plans and unlimited data options. Starlink internet speed and prices were generally in line with other satellite companies and less favorable compared to cable and fiber internet options.
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 has three internet plans: one for homes, mobile locations and boats. Plans include a 30-day trial that begins on the activation day. 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. The home Wi-Fi plan can support streaming, browsing and gaming, business internet or other situations that need priority data access.
- Equipment 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 device can withstand inclement weather, including sleet, high winds and temperatures between -22 and 122°F.
Roam – Best for RVs
Campers, RVs and other traveling residences should use this Starlink RV service. The mobile plan is $150/mo. and comes with unlimited data when inland. Other benefits that suit an on-the-go lifestyle include the ability to pause service and the portability of the smaller array recommended with this plan.
Boats – Best for maritime use
Starlink Boats plan is best for maritime use, especially emergency responders. This internet can be used in the ocean or on a vehicle in motion, making this mobile plan the first of its kind for residential satellite providers. Data packets cost $250/mo. for 50 GB or $1,000/mo. for 1 TB. Data is unlimited when inland, 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 mails you the equipment to install, unlike other satellite providers that send a technician for a professional installation. You can rent or purchase the equipment. Learn more about fees here.
Starlink installation fees
Technically, Starlink 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 Best Buy, which offers free in-store pickup and free shipping.
Customers in certain regions can rent the equipment for a monthly fee. When you check your address on the Starlink site, the rental option will appear if available in your area. The rental option includes an upfront activation fee.
Starlink vs. other internet providers
Starlink has similar availability to other satellite providers and much more coverage for rural internet than big internet companies like Spectrum, Xfinity and T-Mobile. However, cable, fiber and 5G internet are much cheaper and faster. Still, Starlink speeds are impressive for a satellite connection, with top speeds that are five to 10 times faster than 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 | 12–100 Mbps | $64.99/mo. | Satellite | 97.9% |
| Spectrum | 300–1,000 Mbps | $49.99/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?
At first glance, Starlink internet plans seem more expensive than Hughesnet and Viasat, but the cost is similar since both companies raise their prices after a short promotional period. Equipment with the other two satellite companies is less expensive and can be rented for a monthly fee, but Starlink equipment has an upfront cost of $599 or $2,500, depending on the plan.
Starlink availability and coverage map
Starlink is available to 99.6% of the U.S., according to the FCC National Broadband Map. Pockets where coverage will be available in late 2024 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?
Starlink standard residential service is $120/mo. for unlimited data. Additional priority data packages cost $150 to $1,500 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.
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 app to access Starlink email. Select “contact support” for Starlink cancellation inquiries on the Starlink support page.
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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