Is It Worth Buying Starlink?

In this digital age, a reliable and fast internet connection is often considered a necessity, especially for those who work remotely or live in rural areas.

Personal Experience with Starlink

From my personal experience, buying Starlink has been a worthwhile investment. I currently reside in a remote village in Portugal, and I work for an IT company focused on network performance. Previously, my internet connection was extremely unreliable and slow, with download speeds ranging from 1 to 5 Mbps and upload speeds between 2 and 7 Mbps. The situation was frustrating for both personal and professional use.

Back in June 2021, I ordered Starlink and received my system just a few weeks ago. To my satisfaction, the service has far exceeded my expectations. The latency is around 47 ms, making it ideal for applications such as Zoom and other video conferencing tools. My current download speeds range from 260 to 300 Mbps, while upload speeds are between 50 to 70 Mbps. These improved speeds and the consistent service have made a significant difference in my remote working capabilities.

Evaluation Against Legacy Satellite Solutions

Compared to legacy satellite solutions, Starlink significantly outperforms them. As a Low Earth Orbit satellite system, Starlink provides faster and more reliable internet than its predecessors. Even if DSL (digital subscriber line) is available, investing in Starlink is still a good decision. DSL providers typically offer around 100 Mbps of bandwidth, which is less than what Starlink can provide, especially in rural areas with limited options.

Starlink vs. Cable Internet

When compared to cable internet services, the trade-offs with Starlink are more apparent. While Starlink can deliver around 150 Mbps, which is on the lower end compared to modern cable providers, the cost-effectiveness is significant. Cable companies such as Comcast offer speeds up to 600 Mbps for $100 per month. However, Starlink is available for around $60 per month, offering similar speed for a more budget-friendly price.

Starlink does come with a higher latency compared to cable internet, which is often around one-fifth the typical cable setup. Still, this is much better than the latency issues often associated with traditional satellite internet systems, which can be up to five times higher. This is particularly important for applications that require real-time data transmission, such as online gaming or video conferencing.

Considerations for Different Scenarios

The suitability of Starlink can vary based on individual needs and local availability. For instance, some rural areas might offer wireless internet options from local providers. In such cases, it is crucial to compare their latency and bandwidth figures carefully. Additionally, for those who prioritize consistent internet access, LTE (Long-Term Evolution) cell service can also be a viable backup option.

For individuals who rely heavily on internet for remote work or gaming, the higher latency of Starlink may not be a significant drawback. However, for those who demand the lowest possible latency for real-time activities, conventional cable internet might be a better choice, especially if multiple people are using the same connection.

In conclusion, whether or not to buy Starlink depends on your specific requirements and local internet options. For those in rural areas with limited choices, Starlink is an excellent choice for a reliable and reasonably priced internet service.