Starlink recently unveiled its latest innovation: Starlink Mini, a compact and portable version of their satellite internet antenna. Designed for users on the move, this new device is small enough to fit in a backpack, offering internet connectivity anywhere within Starlink’s expanding satellite network coverage.
Elon Musk also recently announced that Starlink Mini will be available in Kenya later this year, priced at approximately half the cost of the Standard terminal.
This news raises questions about how the Mini compares to the Standard kit, their differences, and which option might be best for potential users in Kenya.
Given that SpaceX and Starlink have not yet provided detailed comparisons between the two services, we’ve taken the initiative to thoroughly examine the available information.
Our goal is to offer a clear comparison between the Starlink Mini and Starlink Standard plans, helping potential users make informed decisions.
Core Technology: The Foundation of Starlink’s Innovation
At the heart of both Starlink Mini and Starlink Standard lies the same technology. Elon Musk’s brainchild utilizes a constellation of low Earth orbit satellites to beam internet signals directly to receivers on the ground.
This approach eliminates the need for traditional infrastructure like cell towers, bringing high-speed internet to even the most remote corners of the globe.
The beauty of this system is its ability to provide consistent coverage regardless of terrestrial limitations. Whether you’re in the bustling streets of Nairobi or the vast expanses of the Maasai Mara, Starlink’s satellite network promises to keep you connected.
Starlink Mini vs Starlink Standard
Gear and Setup
The Starlink Standard kit is designed for more permanent installations. It includes a Gen 2 or 3 dish antenna, a separate Wi-Fi router, and necessary cables and adapters.
This setup requires a stable AC power source, drawing up to 62W of power. While this might not be an issue for residential use, it can be challenging for those seeking a truly mobile solution. The Standard and Standard Actuated kits are bulkier, making them less ideal for frequent travelers or those needing quick setup in various locations.
In contrast, the Starlink Mini is built with portability in mind. The antenna is roughly the size of a 14-inch laptop and features an integrated Wi-Fi router, reducing bulk. It’s powered by a 100W USB-C PD connection, compatible with many power banks.
Starlink boasts that the Mini can be set up and operational in just five minutes, making it a game-changer for those who need internet access in changing locations. Its compact size allows it to fit easily into a backpack, perfect for digital nomads, remote workers, or anyone who values internet flexibility.
Download Speeds
The Starlink Standard plan offers download speeds of 50-250 Mbps and upload speeds of 5-20 Mbps. This higher potential speed makes it suitable for more demanding internet tasks.
However, it’s important to note that the standard roam plan operates on a deprioritized mode, which can result in slower speeds and higher latency during peak usage times.
Starlink Mini, while not quite matching the top speeds of its larger counterpart, still offers impressive performance with download speeds of up to 100 Mbps.
Considering its size and power requirements, this is a remarkable achievement. For most users, 100 Mbps is more than sufficient for streaming, video calls, and general internet use.
It’s worth mentioning that Starlink has ambitious plans for the future. The company aims to achieve download speeds of up to 10Gbps as they continue to expand their satellite constellation and optimize their technology.
This means that both Standard and Mini users could see significant speed improvements over time.
Pricing and Availability
The pricing structure for Starlink Mini introduces some complexity, particularly when comparing the U.S. model to the anticipated Kenyan offering.
In the United States, Starlink Mini is currently positioned as an add-on to existing Residential plans rather than a standalone service. This means U.S. customers must first subscribe to a Starlink Residential plan before accessing the Mini option.
The U.S. pricing model sets the Starlink Mini kit at $599, with an additional $30 monthly fee for the Mini Roam service. This package provides users with 50GB of mobile data per month, and additional data can be purchased at $1 per GB. These details come from early-access invitations sent to select U.S. Starlink customers.
If this model were directly applied to Kenya, potential users would need to invest in the Standard Kit first, then pay an additional KES 77,420 (equivalent to $599) for the Mini Kit, plus an extra monthly fee of KES 3,877 ($30) on top of the standard KES 6,500 monthly plan. However, this scenario is likely to change.
Elon Musk has confirmed that Starlink Mini will be available in Kenya later this year, with a projected cost of about half the Standard terminal price.
This announcement raises intriguing questions about the final pricing structure and whether Starlink Mini will be offered as a standalone plan in Kenya rather than an extension of the Residential plan.
Currently, the Standard residential kit in Kenya is priced at KES 45,500, with a monthly plan cost of KES 6,500. Additionally, Starlink offers a competitive 50GB data package in Kenya for just 1,300 Kenyan shillings per month.
This “Starlink Standard – 50GB” plan, available to users with existing Starlink hardware, can be purchased via M-Pesa or Airtel Money and provides high-speed internet access at any fixed residential location in the country.
As we await the official launch of Starlink Mini in Kenya, it will be fascinating to see how Starlink adapts its pricing and plan structure to suit the local market, potentially offering more affordable and flexible options for Kenyan consumers.
Making the Decision: Should You Get Starlink Mini?
As Starlink Mini has yet to launch in Kenya, it’s challenging to provide a definitive recommendation. The decision will largely depend on several factors: the final pricing structure in Kenya, whether it will be offered as a standalone service or tied to existing plans, your specific internet needs and usage patterns, and the importance of portability in your internet setup.
Starlink’s efforts to make their service more affordable and accessible in Kenya are encouraging signs. The introduction of Starlink Mini could potentially fill a gap in the market for those needing reliable, portable internet access.
For users who prioritize mobility and are willing to sacrifice some speed for portability, Starlink Mini could be an excellent choice. However, those requiring the highest possible speeds and who have a stable power source might still prefer the Standard plan.
As we await the official launch of Starlink Mini in Kenya, it’s advisable to keep an eye on official announcements from Starlink regarding pricing and availability, consider your internet usage needs and how they align with the capabilities of Starlink Mini, and compare the offering with other available internet options in your area.
Rest assured, we’ll be conducting an in-depth review of the Starlink Mini plan once it becomes available in Kenya. This review will provide hands-on insights into its performance, real-world usability, and value for money in the Kenyan context.
