MerlinStarlink is a satellite internet service launched by SpaceX, designed to provide high-speed broadband connectivity to remote areas across the globe. With its promise of low-latency, high-bandwidth internet, Starlink has been a game-changer for people living in areas where traditional internet service providers have failed to deliver.
However, with Starlink’s recent launch in Australia, many are wondering how much it will cost to access this cutting-edge service down under. In this article, we’ll explore the different Starlink plans available in Australia, compare their pricing with other satellite internet providers, examine the factors that affect the cost of Starlink in Australia and answer several common questions about the service.
How does Starlink function?
Low Earth orbit satellites are used by Starlink instead of traditional satellites, which results in lower latency than satellite internet with a higher orbit. To deliver internet to your house, these satellites then communicate with your devices and ground stations.
You will receive the necessary equipment to access Starlink from your house, but you must set up and install it yourself (or pay someone to install it for you). In this regard, it functions more like an internet provider, providing both access and the necessary equipment, necessitating more setup work from clients than an NBN service would.
Factors Affecting Starlink Pricing in Australia
Starlink’s pricing in Australia is influenced by a variety of factors, including regulatory requirements, infrastructure costs, and operating expenses. Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors:
- Regulatory and licensing requirements In Australia: the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) regulates the use of satellite communication services, including Starlink. As a result, Starlink must comply with various regulatory requirements, such as frequency licensing, spectrum fees, and compliance with technical standards. These regulatory requirements can impact Starlink’s pricing in Australia, as the company may need to pass on these costs to consumers.
- Infrastructure costs: To provide internet connectivity via satellite, Starlink needs to build and maintain a network of ground stations and satellites. The infrastructure costs associated with setting up and maintaining this network can be substantial, and may affect Starlink’s pricing in Australia. In addition, the cost of launching satellites into orbit can also impact Starlink’s pricing, as this is a significant expense that must be factored into the cost of the service.
- Operating expenses: Finally, Starlink’s pricing in Australia may be influenced by the company’s operating expenses, such as the cost of customer support, marketing, and overhead. These costs are likely to vary depending on the scale of Starlink’s operations in Australia and the number of subscribers it has.
Overall, a combination of regulatory, infrastructure, and operating costs may impact Starlink’s pricing in Australia. However, despite these costs, Starlink’s high-speed internet service may still be a compelling option for those in remote areas where traditional internet providers are not available.
Pros and Cons of Starlink in Australia
While Starlink’s launch in Australia has generated a lot of excitement, it’s important to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of the service. Here are some pros and cons of using Starlink in Australia:
Pros
- High-speed internet: Starlink promises to deliver high-speed broadband connectivity to areas where traditional internet providers have been unable to provide service. This can be a game-changer for people living in remote areas who need reliable internet access for work, education, or entertainment.
- Low-latency: One of the main advantages of Starlink is its low-latency connection. With a latency of around 20-40 milliseconds, Starlink can offer a much faster and smoother internet experience compared to other satellite internet providers.
- Easy installation: Setting up Starlink is relatively simple, with users only needing to install a small satellite dish and modem to access the service.
Cons
- Cost: While Starlink’s pricing in Australia is still being finalized, it’s likely to be more expensive than traditional internet providers. This may make it unaffordable for some users.
- Limited coverage: While Starlink is expanding rapidly, its coverage is still limited in Australia. It’s currently only available in certain areas, and it may be some time before it becomes available in all regions.
- Weather dependency: Because Starlink relies on satellite communication, its performance can be affected by weather conditions such as heavy rain or snow. This can lead to slower speeds and interruptions in service.
How much is Starlink in Australia 2023
Residential customers
In addition to the $139 monthly rate for your Starlink internet package, residential customers must pay an upfront hardware cost of $924 and a $115 shipping fee. Despite having faster speeds and unlimited data, this is much more expensive than NBN satellite services (independent of the hardware price). You might wish to take advantage of these bargains when they are available since Starlink has also discounted hardware costs, bringing the upfront cost down to $450 with free shipping.
Business customers
Signing up for Starlink Business, which has higher rates than the residential version, is an option for businesses considering Starlink. In addition to the recurring monthly expense of $374 for the Starlink internet service, you will also need to pay an upfront fee of $3,740 for hardware and $155 for shipment.
Starlink Hardware Cost
The current price of Starlink hardware, including delivery to your address, is AUD $ 450.00. Everything needed to access the internet service, including the Starlink equipment, will be supplied in a box. But, a roof mount kit is not included with the set. At the time of installation, the installer will provide that. You will require a credit or debit card to pay the invoice on the starlink website in order to purchase the equipment. Visit https://starlink.com to place an order for Starlink gear.
Cost of Starlink Installation
If you install Starlink with Consta Wireless, the installation fee is AUD $ 200.00 for a typical one-story residence. A strong strength roof mount that is provided by the installer is included in the pricing. The price includes complete installation, which includes mounting a Starlink dish on your roof, running cable, installing outlets, configuring your Starlink router to use your chosen WiFi name and password, and, of course, testing and connecting all of your gadgets to your new Starlink WiFi. You are granted a five-year warranty. Click here to make a reservation for the starlink installation…
Monthly Starlink Service Charge
You must pay Starlink AUD $ 139.00 per month in order to use their internet service. With minimal latency (70 ms), an average download speed of 200 mbps, and an average upload speed of 20 mbps, the service offers high-quality internet access. VoIP applications, including SIP services and landlines, gaming, and video conferencing are all supported by the Starlink service. A credit or debit card must be used to pay for the service (auto pay mode).
compares Starlink’s potential pricing with other satellite internet providers in Australia:
| Service Provider | Monthly Cost (AUD) | Download Speed (Mbps) | Upload Speed (Mbps) | Data Limit (GB) | Latency (ms) | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starlink | AUD139 | Up to 150 | Up to 30 | Unlimited (with data management beyond certain threshold) | 20-40 | Limited, expanding |
| Sky Muster Plus | $59.95 – $149.95 | Up to 25 | Up to 5 | 10-150 | 600-800 | Nationwide |
| Southern Phone | $50 – $99 | Up to 25 | Up to 5 | 50-150 | 650-950 | Nationwide |
| Activ8me | $59.95 – $114.95 | Up to 25 | Up to 5 | 60-300 | 600-800 | Nationwide |
How to Extend Starlink WiFi
Here are five tips for new Starlink customers looking to extend their WiFi connection:
- Consider the distance: Starlink’s WiFi range is about 100 feet or 30 meters from the Starlink dish. If you need to extend your WiFi to an area outside of this range, you will need to use a WiFi extender or a mesh network.
- Use a WiFi extender: A WiFi extender can help to extend your Starlink WiFi signal beyond the range of the Starlink dish. Simply plug in the extender and connect it to your Starlink network to create a new WiFi hotspot.
- Set up a mesh network: A mesh network uses multiple access points to create a wider WiFi coverage area. This is especially useful if you need to extend your WiFi to multiple buildings or areas on your property.
- Optimize your placement: If possible, place your Starlink dish in a location that is elevated and free from obstructions. This can help to improve your signal strength and overall WiFi performance.
- Contact Starlink support: If you are experiencing issues with your Starlink connection or need help extending your WiFi, don’t hesitate to contact Starlink support. They can provide you with personalized advice and troubleshooting tips to help you get the most out of your Starlink internet service.
Is Starlink Internet Right for You?
For people in rural areas:
- Limited options: If you live in a rural area, you may have limited options for internet service providers. Starlink could be a good option if you currently rely on a slow or unreliable satellite internet service or if you have no access to wired internet.
- Faster speeds: Starlink promises to offer faster speeds than traditional satellite internet providers, which can be particularly important for rural users who often experience slow internet speeds due to their remote location.
- High data usage: If you have high data usage needs due to running a home business, homeschooling, or frequent video conferencing, Starlink’s unlimited data usage policy with data management beyond certain thresholds may be appealing.
- High upfront cost: However, it’s important to note that the upfront cost of the Starlink equipment may be relatively expensive, and it may take some time to recoup the investment compared to other satellite internet providers.
For people in urban areas:
- Competition: In urban areas, there may be more competition among internet service providers, including fiber and cable internet providers. Depending on the availability and pricing of these services in your area, they may be a better option than Starlink.
- Reliability: While Starlink promises to be more reliable than traditional satellite internet providers, it may still be less reliable than wired internet services due to factors such as weather interference and satellite orbit patterns.
- Price: Depending on the pricing of other internet service providers in your area, Starlink may be more expensive than other options. However, it’s important to weigh the cost against the potential benefits, such as faster speeds and unlimited data usage.
Ultimately, whether Starlink internet is right for you will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. It’s important to research and compare different internet service providers in your area to make an informed decision.
What are the alternatives to Starlink In Australia?
There are several alternatives to Starlink for internet connectivity in Australia, including:
- NBN (National Broadband Network): NBN is a government-owned company that provides broadband internet services across Australia. They offer a range of plans for both residential and business customers, with speeds ranging from 12Mbps to 1000Mbps.
- Mobile broadband: Many mobile providers in Australia offer mobile broadband plans that allow you to access the internet using a 4G or 5G network. These plans can be useful if you need internet access while on the go or if you live in an area with limited fixed-line internet options.
- Fixed wireless: Fixed wireless is a type of broadband internet service that uses radio signals to connect your home or business to the internet. It can be a good option for people who live in rural or remote areas where traditional fixed-line internet is not available.
- Satellite internet: In addition to Starlink, there are several other satellite internet providers in Australia, including Optus and Sky Muster. These providers use satellites to provide internet connectivity to remote and rural areas.
- Local internet service providers (ISPs): Depending on your location, there may be local ISPs that offer fixed-line, wireless, or other types of internet services. These providers can often offer personalized support and competitive pricing.
The table below compares Starlink’s real-world performance and user experiences to other Wi-Fi services in Australia:
| Service Provider | Download Speed (Mbps) | Upload Speed (Mbps) | Latency (ms) | Coverage | User Experience |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starlink | Up to 150 | Up to 30 | 20-40 | Limited, expanding | Positive, with some users reporting occasional interruptions in service due to weather conditions |
| NBN Co. | Up to 100 | Up to 40 | 20-40 | Nationwide | Mixed, with some users experiencing slow speeds during peak hours and disruptions due to maintenance |
| Optus | Up to 100 | Up to 20 | 20-50 | Nationwide | Mixed, with some users reporting slow speeds and connectivity issues |
| Telstra | Up to 100 | Up to 40 | 20-50 | Nationwide | Positive, with some users reporting occasional disruptions in service due to maintenance |
Note: These speeds are based on the advertised maximums and may vary depending on the user’s location and network conditions. Additionally, Starlink’s coverage is currently limited in Australia and is expected to expand over time.
FAQs
How good of internet is Starlink?
In optimal conditions, the internet speeds are good with Starlink. The download speed ranges between 150 Mbps to 250 Mbps. Upload speeds range between 10 to 20 Mbps, which is great. But the dish must remain unobstructed in order to get consistent performance.
What is Starlink Business?
Starlink Business is a service provided by SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet network, which offers high-speed internet connectivity for businesses located in remote or underserved areas. With Starlink Business, businesses can access reliable and fast internet connectivity, even in areas where traditional terrestrial internet services are unavailable or unreliable.
The service includes dedicated customer support, enterprise-grade security features, and customizable service level agreements (SLAs) to ensure businesses have a reliable and high-quality internet connection. Starlink Business plans also offer flexible pricing options, allowing businesses to choose the data and speed they need to meet their unique requirements.
In addition to providing high-speed internet, Starlink Business also has the potential to enable new technologies and applications, such as telemedicine, distance learning, and remote work.
Is Starlink better than other Internet providers?
Starlink can provide better speeds than other internet providers, especially in rural areas. Its ability to do so consistently remains another question.
Is Starlink internet unlimited data?
Yes, there is no data cap with Starlink internet.
What are the disadvantages of Starlink?
Reliability remains one of the biggest disadvantages as well as the availability. Eventually, the availability will increase, which should increase the reliability. The company’s viability remains in question, too, after Elon Musk said in 2021 the business needed $20 to $30 billion to remain viable.
Does Starlink internet work in bad weather?
If you’re looking for a satellite internet provider that’s tough enough to survive any weather and works in nearly any situation, look no further than Starlink. It’s designed to work in snow, extreme heat, extreme cold, rain and hail, so you can use it with confidence no matter what kind of weather is around.
Is Starlink a good option for rural areas in Australia?
Starlink could be a good option for people in rural areas who have limited options for internet service providers or who currently rely on slow or unreliable satellite internet services. Starlink’s faster speeds and unlimited data usage policy may be particularly appealing to rural users.
How does Starlink compare to other satellite internet providers in Australia?
Starlink’s pricing and performance compared to other satellite internet providers in Australia is not yet fully known, as it is still in beta testing. However, early reports suggest that Starlink may offer faster speeds and more reliable service than traditional satellite internet providers.
Can I do Zoom video calling with Starlink?
Yes, it is possible to do Zoom video calling with Starlink. However, the quality of the video call may depend on several factors such as the number of users connected to the network, network congestion, weather conditions, and other environmental factors. Since Starlink is a satellite-based internet service, it may experience occasional latency or signal interruptions, which could affect the quality of video calls. Nonetheless, Starlink’s high-speed internet and low latency compared to traditional satellite internet services could make it a viable option for video conferencing and other online activities that require a stable internet connection.
Does Starlink support a VoIP Line (a landline for business)?
Yes, Starlink successfully supports VoIP landlines. We can help you setup your landline and cloud PBX if needed. We work with WiFiMax in Sydney for VoIP and cloud PBX over Starlink connections. They offer cloud PBX and VoIP services for businesses that are required to run cloud PBX and VoIP landline services over Starlink satellite internet.
The monthly cost for 1 landline number (new or bring your number) is $ 25.00 per month and that includes cloud PBX and all calls to Australia landline and mobile phones included.
Does Starlink work with online gaming?
Starlink can work with online gaming, but the quality of the gaming experience may depend on several factors, including network latency, network congestion, and other environmental factors. Starlink’s low latency compared to traditional satellite internet services could make it a viable option for online gaming, but it may not provide the same level of performance as terrestrial internet services.
What is Starlink for RVs?
When you travel, you can access satellite internet with Starlink for RVs, a portable version of Starlink, which can be placed in your RV. Hardware costs $924 up front (excluding shipping expenses), and access is $174 per month.
There are two types: Regular Starlink, which is not intended for usage while moving, and Flat High Performance Starlink, which is only offered for order and in a few areas but allows you to use the internet while moving.
Mobile broadband products, the most popular type of portable internet for anyone traveling, can be substituted with Starlink for RVs. It does, however, rely on a mobile network connection, which in some places could be spotty. Starlink for RVs may offer more expansive coverage than mobile broadband.
Why is my Starlink internet so slow?
There are several reasons why your Starlink internet connection may be slow:
- Network congestion: If many people in your area are using the Starlink network at the same time, it can cause network congestion and slow down your internet speed.
- Weather conditions: Starlink’s satellite internet service can be affected by weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow, or high winds. These conditions can cause signal interference, leading to slower internet speeds.
- Obstructions: If there are obstructions such as trees, buildings, or other objects blocking the line of sight between your Starlink dish and the satellite, it can result in a weaker signal and slower internet speeds.
- Equipment issues: If there is an issue with your Starlink equipment, such as a faulty modem or router, it can cause slow internet speeds.
To improve your Starlink internet speed, try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Check for network congestion: Monitor the Starlink network status to see if there is any congestion in your area. Consider using the internet during non-peak hours.
- Check the weather conditions: If the weather is affecting your signal, wait for it to pass or consider moving your Starlink dish to a location with a clearer view of the sky.
- Remove obstructions: If possible, remove any obstructions that may be blocking your Starlink dish’s line of sight to the satellite.
- Check your equipment: Make sure all your Starlink equipment is working properly. Try resetting your modem and router, and if the issue persists, contact Starlink support for assistance.
If none of these steps work, consider contacting Starlink customer support for further assistance.
Conclusion
Starlink is a promising satellite internet service that has brought reliable and fast internet to many rural and remote areas of Australia. With its competitive pricing, wide coverage, and relatively low latency, Starlink has become a popular choice for those who lack access to traditional broadband internet services. However, like any other internet service, Starlink has its own set of pros and cons that users must consider before making a decision. Factors such as network congestion, weather conditions, and obstructions can also affect Starlink’s performance. By weighing the advantages and disadvantages, customers can make an informed decision on whether Starlink is the right internet service for their needs.