Starlink Roam, the latest product offering from Starlink, is a buzzword in the world of satellite internet. But is it really worth the hype? This in-depth review aims to answer that question by exploring every facet of Starlink Roam, from its features to its pricing and potential use-cases, helping you make an informed decision.
Introduction to Starlink Roam
Starlink has consistently strived to innovate in the field of satellite internet, and their latest product, Starlink Roam, is no exception. It is essentially a mobile version of their standard residential service. Customers can switch their existing residential plan to Starlink Roam, which offers the flexibility to move around with the satellite dish, ensuring connectivity wherever they go.
The introduction of Starlink Roam comes after several iterations of their portable satellite system, including Starlink Portable and Starlink RV. However, these previous plans are now phased out in the U.S, and Starlink Roam has taken their place.
Unpacking the Features of Starlink Roam
Starlink Roam promises a host of features designed to cater to the needs of the modern internet user. The most prominent of these is its portability. With Starlink Roam, you can take your satellite dish with you wherever you go, ensuring that you’re always connected.
However, it’s essential to note that the in-motion use of Starlink Roam is only available with the new Flat High-Performance Starlink equipment and a Priority Mobile service plan. This allows users to install the dish on their vehicle and maintain internet access while driving.
Moreover, Starlink Roam offers the flexibility to pause your service at any time, making it a suitable choice for those who might need it only during specific seasons.
Plan Options and Pricing
Starlink Roam comes with two different plan options: a regional plan costing $150 per month and a global plan priced at $200 per month.
Plan | Cost | Speed | Portability | Service Plan |
Starlink Roam Regional | $150.00/mo. | 5Mbps–50Mbps | Anywhere within your continent | Mobile |
Starlink Roam Global | $200.00/mo. | 5Mbps–50Mbps | Anywhere in the world | Mobile |
Starlink Roam Mobile Priority 50GB | $250.00/mo. | 5Mbps–50Mbps | Anywhere in the world | Priority Mobile |
The regional plan offers connectivity anywhere within your continent, while the global plan provides coverage anywhere in the world. The standard Starlink equipment costs a one-time fee of $599, while the new Flat High-Performance equipment is priced at $2,500.
Starlink Roam vs. Starlink Residential
While the main draw of Starlink Roam is its portability, it's crucial to understand how it stacks up against the standard Starlink Residential service in other aspects.
Cost
While the basic Starlink plan is comparable to other satellite providers like Viasat and Hughesnet, Starlink Roam's pricing positions it among the higher-end residential internet plans. The global plan, in particular, can nearly double your monthly internet expenses.
Speed
Speed is another critical aspect to consider. While Starlink's low latency is its main advantage over traditional geosynchronous satellites, its download speeds have been a significant selling point. However, Starlink Roam plans offer slower speeds, maxing out at 50Mbps, which is approximately half of the standard residential plan's speed.
Portability
Starlink Roam's key feature is its portability. The regional plan covers the same continent, while the global plan provides coverage anywhere in the world. However, there are certain restrictions, like the need to transfer your account to a foreign country if you spend more than two months there.
Service Plan
Starlink Roam Regional and Global fall under the Standard Mobile service plan, which has the lowest priority on the network. This can result in slow speeds, especially during peak hours. However, you can upgrade to the Priority Mobile service plan for better network priority and access to the in-motion feature.
Switching to Starlink Roam
Switching to Starlink Roam from your existing Starlink plan is straightforward and can be done from your Starlink account. However, it's essential to note that once you switch to Roam, you cannot revert to the Residential plan.
Steps to Switch to Starlink Roam
Log into your Starlink account.
Find the plan you want to change under 'Your Starlinks' and click 'Manage'.
Select the pencil icon next to 'Service Type'.
Change your subscription to Roam and accept the new terms and conditions.
This process changes your monthly bill and download speed to those of the Roam plan, removes the priority access of your residential plan, and enables you to take your dish with you when you travel.
Is Starlink Roam Worth It?
When considering whether Starlink Roam is worth the investment, it's important to weigh its benefits against its drawbacks. While its portability and flexible payment options can make it an attractive choice for those who travel frequently, its slower speeds and deprioritized connections might deter professionals who work from home.
The Verdict
While Starlink Roam is undoubtedly an innovative product in the satellite internet space, its high cost and slower speeds make it a less desirable choice for a primary household internet plan. However, if you're a frequent traveler and can justify the initial investment, Starlink Roam can serve as a powerful secondary internet plan.
Frequently Answered Questions
Q1. Is it possible to use Starlink Roam while traveling in a vehicle, such as an RV or truck?
Indeed, the Starlink Roam service is compatible with on-the-go usage when equipped with the Starlink Flat High Performance dish, which is priced at $2,500. Nevertheless, the capability to use the service while in motion is currently not available for those on the Starlink Roam Global plan.
Q2. Does Starlink Roam differ from Starlink Portable?
Initially, Starlink Roam and Starlink Portable were distinct offerings. Compared to its counterpart, Starlink Roam offers somewhat slower download speeds and provides access to the network on a Best Effort basis. It's important to note that the Starlink Portable plan has been discontinued in the U.S.
Q3. In which regions can Starlink Roam be accessed?
The Starlink Roam service is accessible in all countries where Starlink service is operational. It offers regional plans for usage on land within the continent of registration, and global plans that are usable in any Starlink-supported country worldwide.
Q4. Is it feasible to switch from my existing Starlink subscription to a Roam plan?
Switching to a Starlink Roam plan from a current subscription is an option. However, considering that Roam plans have a lower priority and reduced download speeds, it is generally not advised to replace your main home internet service with a Roam plan.
Q5. What should I know about suspending the Starlink Roam service?
Users have the ability to pause or reactivate their Starlink Roam service directly via their Starlink account interface. It's crucial to remember that the billing for Starlink Roam isn't calculated on a daily basis; thus, activating the service at any point during a month incurs charges for the entire month.
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