02-17-2025, 12:13 PM (This post was last modified: 02-17-2025, 12:14 PM by cp4000.)
Hi everyone,
Was thinking about getting Starlink onboard this year. I've tried running Teams meetings with our club's wifi and it is way to choppy.
Any good or bad experiences out there? Thinking about the $160/mo roaming package.
Thanks,
I actually have one of each and therefore have been able to compare. The standard is better if you're dealing with obstructions like trees or buildings, although both work better with a clear view of the sky. Obviously the mini is smaller so it will fit better on a boat, and it draws less power which is good when you're at anchor or on a mooring. The mini also has WiFi integrated in the dish as opposed to the separate router that the standard dish uses. This makes the mini that much easier to install on a boat--one less thing to find a spot for.
Bottom line, unless your slip has lots of trees or buildings close-by, go for the mini.
Also, the Starlink app has the capability of using your phone's camera to check a location for suitability. I always had a dish plugged in when using that feature, but I imagine it may work before buying a dish too? It is fun to play with and shows all the satellites in the sky, which is impressive. Download the app and see if you can use the feature.
Finally, I have found Starlink to be 180° opposite of typical internet companies--the service has been better, and less expensive (!) than advertised. I don't get it...they advertise one price and I've been paying less. They aren't clear as to why, and I get the sense it may go to the normal price at any time. My hunch is that there aren't that many people in my geographical area using it, so they are trying to encourage satellite usage from my location (?)
The following 1 user Likes hiccup's post:1 user Likes hiccup's post First_Light (03-05-2025)
Update - Have the mini installed and working well. Do any of you have them running on DC while underway? I know there are options out there and would like to stay away from an inverter at the moment. Anyone running battery packs out there? Any suggestions?
Update...
Starlink now runs on AC at the dock and DC underway, love it!! I installed an AC outlet in the engine bay right under the removeable hatch where I also mounted a DC box that runs on twin Milwaukee M18 batteries. When I want to run it underway, I reach down and just swap the cable from AC to DC and good to go.
How much are you paying a month? I am thinking about it but the antenna is geofenced to 10 miles offshore. My normal run is 40 and the up charge to work offshore seems a bit steep.
I am paying $165/mo for the roaming package but the good thing is that I can pause service when she is on the hard. In WI that is roughly 6 1/2 months.