SpaceX Starlink has finally decided to launch Starlink Mini, which comes with ultra-portability features, unlike its previous version. Using Starlink Mini, you can access the internet from anywhere in the world. Whether you are hiking in deep mountain areas or exploring rural villages far away.

Starlink Mini can provide you with internet services in almost 75 countries, with more being added as we continue to speak. To learn more about this new SpaceX internet revolutionary product, Starlink Mini, keep reading this article until the end, as we have tried to provide all the information related to it. 

Starlink Mini Overview

Starlink Mini comes with DC-powered services that are as thick as a laptop while incorporating a Wi-Fi router in itself. After multiple tests before its launch, the Starlink Mini, though tiny, achieved a speed of more than 100 Mbps. Elon Musk was quick to praise the performance of Starlink Mini, which is set to evolve internet accessibility globally. 

Starlink’s older version disk was pretty difficult to carry from one place to another while on the go. However, with the help of Starlink Mini, you can enjoy high speed anywhere without necessary buffering or frequent stoppages. You can set up a Starlink Mini within 5 minutes if you end up following the correct procedures. 

Power Consumption

One of the most talked about features of Starlink Mini is its power efficiency. It has received a considerable upgrade compared to its standard actuated dish. From its looks, the Starlink Mini would consume an average power of just 20-40W. The older versions of Starlink used to consume 33-62 W, which is a massive improvement. Moreover, it now comes with its known Wi-Fi router that has doubled its significance on the market. 

Speed

The Starlink Mini is said to be comparatively slower than its standard “V4” Starlink dish. Although it has portability features that allow you to carry it anywhere, the internet speed remains below 100 Mbps. Multiple tests have proven that older versions of Starlink are considerably faster than the Mini version.

Supported Power Sources

Anyone who decides to use the newly launched Starlink Mini can start powering the device for two to three hours. This is possible because of an Anker Prime 27,650mAh power bank and 10,000mAh smaller portable batteries. Furthermore, the Starlink Mini also has a USB-C PD power source that comes with a minimum rating of 100W.

You can use external sources like UPS Power Backup with Starlink Mini.

Antenna Size, Weight & Dimensions

Talking about physical specifications, the Starlink Mini measures 11.75 x 10.2 x 1.45 inches and weighs around 2.43 pounds, 3.37 pounds, with the 49.2-foot DC power cable and kickstand.

Most importantly, the Starlink Mini has an IP67 rating that protects it from dust and rain while allowing the device to protect itself in a short period of submersion in water. Moreover, it is 63% lighter compared to the standard Starlink dish used previously. 

You can operate the Starlink Mini at temperatures from -30 degrees Celsius to 50 degrees Celsius. Due to its assurances, the Starlink Mini can be used in a multitude of temperatures without any stoppages. 

Starlink Mini Prices and Plan

The Starlink Mini is pre-dominantly released all over the US market. Currently, the Starlink Mini is priced at $599. It comes at a $100 premium compared to its standard Starlink Dish that isn’t too enhanced like its recent version.

Residential plans are set at $120, while the users will have to add a monthly subscription of $30 for Mini Roam services. With this add-on, you can start enjoying up to 50GB of mobile data every month. Moreover, it also gives you the option of purchasing additional data every month at $1 per GB. 

However, these are all current projections depending upon the early-access invitations sent to selected Starlink customers in the US. 

International Availability

Although the Starlink Mini is comparatively new to the US, it can also be found in Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Panama. If you decide to use Starlink Mini in those countries, you can purchase it for Mini Service or any other mobile regional plans.

However, you cannot use the Starlink Mini while in motion or deep ocean exploration. With time, the Starlink Mini will soon be available in hundreds of markets globally. 

Points to keep in mind before purchasing Starlink Mini

The Starlink Mini comes with a “Mini Roam” data plan that charges $30 per month. However, this plan is only being offered to existing $120 per month Starlink Residential customers. This will take the total monthly cost to $150 per month based on the current Starlink Mini data roaming plans. 

• The Starlink Mini would only be providing its Mini Roam data plans to US markets. If traveling to Mexico or Canada, it wouldn’t be available. 
• When in-motion and ocean exploration, the Starlink Mini would cease to operate. However, in nearshore regions, the package would be available for use under 10 mph. It is considerably similar to the Starlink systems that SpaceX previously introduced.
• Starlink Mini doesn’t provide any pausing service, and it would continue to run if the data package is exhausted. 
• Most importantly, the Mini Roam data package is linked with your residential plan. This means that if you cancel your residential service, the Mini Roam plan will also stop operating. 

Why is Starlink Mini?

One of the most heated conversations that took place with the release of Starlink Mini is the opportunity given to outdoor explorers. Most of us might already be aware of how difficult it is to access the internet in certain places. However, with the release of Starlink Mini, this might not be a problem anymore if you decide to pay a certain price. 

1. Quick installation

The Starlink Mini can be set up within 5 minutes, making it an excellent choice for emergencies. You can easily deploy the device whenever required while being able to access the situation convincingly. Furthermore, the rescuers can focus on their mission ahead of time instead of getting distracted by setting up the device accordingly. 

2. Ability to operate in adverse weather conditions

It doesn’t matter whether you are facing tough weather conditions or lost in secluded areas. The Starlink Mini can provide you with an accessible internet connection that can help you establish a connection with anyone present near your radar. Thus, it ensures communication even after other networks cease to operate. 

3. Scalability

The Starlink Mini offers not only small-scale missions but also large-scale rescue missions into deep forests or remote areas wherever its services are available. Therefore, it can easily adapt to different requirements without you having to opt for any other device. 

Reviews

Based on the reviews available on the internet, Starlink Mini seems to have made quite an impression among outdoor enthusiasts. However, they have also voiced their concerns regarding the monthly service plan that has been set to 50 GB.

Some state that it should be increased to at least 75-100GB in the next update. Moreover, some of them have received initial notification regarding the launch of Starlink Mini. They have also expressed their views on reducing equipment costs. Because it reduces the affordability of this product among larger masses. 

Conclusion

Overall, the Starlink Mini is a considerable update on its previous versions that had multiple limitations regarding accessibility and portability. With increased data packages, the Starlink Mini is also offering benefits that none of the internet operators are able to provide globally. 

Outdoor enthusiasts or people associated with search and rescue teams could opt for Starlink Mini, as it solves multiple issues that were previously impossible. Moreover, the portability feature has boosted its importance among people who are traveling most of the time. 

Nonetheless, you need to keep in mind the countries that are currently allowing Starlink Mini. After checking those countries and subscribing to their data packages, you can start accessing the internet anywhere and anytime without any stoppages.