RVers looking for the best internet solution have been eyeing Starlink for quite a while. It seems to be an ideal option for those who are mobile since it involves satellite communication rather than cell towers.
SpaceX’s Starlink is currently expanding its service to include RVs. Initially, it’s mainly been available only to stationary home base users.
But will this be the solution so many remote workers have been waiting for?
Let’s find out!
Starlink for RVs is Available Now
The long wait for reliable and fast internet connection for RVers is over. While it may not be perfect in every way, we believe it’ll be the answer for those of us who work remotely on the road.
The service and hardware are available immediately when ordering Starlink for RVs, rather than reserving the residential option. You’ll pay a little more per month, but some may feel it’s worth the extra expense for what you get.
If you order Starlink for RVs today, they’ll ship the dish antennae immediately to whatever address you choose. For this package, there’s no waiting months, or even a year, before receiving the hardware and starting service.
It may be tempting for residential users to order Starlink for RVs due to its no-waitlist option. But doing so could result in slower connectivity at times due to the difference between the at-home and mobile service.
We’ll learn the difference between the options and whether Starlink for RVs is worth the extra expense.
What is Starlink?
Starlink is high-speed internet that uses satellites operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX. Currently, it’s available in 32 countries. The company’s goal is to provide internet coverage globally.
In 2019, Starlink began launching small satellites that communicate with designated ground transmitters. While SpaceX hopes to deploy 42,000 satellites eventually, just over 2,400 are currently in use.
The appeal of Starlink is its high-speed reliability, especially in rural locations. Current internet service can be extremely frustrating. It’s not uncommon to experience dropped connections and slow speeds, even from the best providers.
Finding a provider that will keep you connected online can be next to impossible for those living in remote locations. That’s where Starlink steps in and says, “We’ve got you!”
Connecting to the Internet via satellites seems much more reliable, not to mention faster. City dwellers may not understand the frustration experienced by those who live in less populated areas.
The simple act of sending a ten-minute video to a colleague via email or another online service can take upwards of five minutes. Starlink offers an internet solution that would take a fraction of the time to send that data-heavy communication.
Starlink isn’t available in every corner of the world yet. But you can still order residential service even in areas marked as “waitlisted.” It’s essentially a pre-order to secure your spot with a small deposit. You’ll receive an email when service becomes available in your area.
What is Starlink for RVs?
If you’re a full-time, or even part-time, RVer, chances are you’ve spent some time researching internet options for the road. Reliable connection to the online world while traveling isn’t nearly as easy to come by as when you’re stationary.
Starlink for RVs looks to be the solution for many of us that live or travel in our motorhomes. If you only use the Internet for texting, emailing, and checking Facebook, your current provider is probably acceptable. But remote workers require robust and reliable internet service.
The current advantage of Starlink for RVs over their residential service is immediate availability. In some cases, the waitlist for receiving the dish antennae and available service for home users can be upwards of a year.
Another benefit of Starlink for RVs is internet connection in places with slow or non-existent broadband options. For RVers who prefer to boondock in remote locations, Starlink could be the best option for staying connected in the boonies.
While the instant gratification of Starlink for RVs is appealing, there are some aspects of the service users need to know. Speeds could slow down during peak usage in areas where Starlink has waitlists. And you can’t use Starlink while in motion.
For many RVers, these downsides aren’t necessarily deal-breakers. We always seem to find ways to work around our already troublesome internet connections. These issues seem manageable in comparison.
How Much Does Starlink for RVs Cost?
You’re probably thinking the cost of Starlink for RVs is going to break the bank. While it’s not exactly cheap, it’s not out of the range of other internet providers. Plus, when you consider being able to work or stay connected reliably, the price may be worth it.
The price includes a one-time hardware cost of $599 plus $135 per month for service. Customers in the United States will also pay $50 for shipping and local state taxes.
The setup is easy, and Starlink provides a starter kit that includes a wifi router, cables, and base. All you need is a clear view of the sky to stay connected.
Another benefit of Starlink, both for RVers and residential customers, is no data caps. Most internet providers offer anywhere from 50 GB to 300 GB of data per month. While some will say they have unlimited data, it’s not really true. Just ask any heavy user of data!
How Fast is Starlink for RVs?
Now, for the real appeal! Starlink for RV customers can expect 50 to 250 Mbps download and 10 to 20 Mbps upload speeds. Remember, these numbers could reduce in areas of heavy congestion. But you’ll still have a connection, just a bit slower.
Is Starlink for RVs Worth It?
If you require an internet connection that’s fast, reliable, and available in remote locations, Starlink for RVs sure seems worth it. The frustration of waiting five minutes or longer to download a document could justify the initial startup cost.
Is Starlink for RVs something you’ll consider? Let us know in the comments.
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