With the rise of satellite internet solutions, regional Australians now have more options than ever before to get connected. Starlink, the satellite internet service from SpaceX, has garnered much attention, but how does it compare to nbn®® Sky Muster Plus? Heres an updated look at the differences between these two services for residential customers.
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Starlink
Since its announcement in 2015, Starlink has grown to include approximately 2,300 low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites. Unlike traditional geostationary (GEO) satellites used by other providers, these LEO satellites orbit much closer to Earth, potentially offering lower latency and higher speeds. However, the service’s rapid expansion has led to growing pains, including potential congestion and fluctuating speeds during peak times.
- Coverage
Current Status: Starlink is available in all of Australia. However, availability is on a first-come, first-served basis, and service quality may vary based on location and user density.
Scalability: As more users join the network, congestion may become an issue, particularly during peak hours.
- Costs and Equipment
Monthly Subscription: The standard Starlink service plan costs $139/mo.
Hardware Costs: The Starlink Kit, which includes a satellite dish and modem, costs $599. This does not include shipping charges.
Installation: Installation is DIY, which can be challenging for some users and may require additional costs for professional setup if needed.
- Service Performance
Speeds and Latency: Users have reported high speeds and relatively low latency. However, these speeds can fluctuate based on network congestion.
Power Consumption: Starlink equipment is known for higher power consumption, which could increase overall power bills.
Customer Support: Starlink does not have a support team based in Australia, making it difficult for users to reach out for help. Support requests must be submitted online, which can be problematic if Starlink is the user’s only internet connection.
Sky Muster Plus
Sky Muster Plus, operated by nbn®®, uses geostationary satellites to provide consistent and reliable internet access across Australia. It is particularly well-suited for rural and remote areas, with comprehensive support and a range of affordable plans.
- Coverage:
Nationwide Access: Sky Muster Plus covers all of Australia, including the most remote areas, with no limits on how many premises can be connected.
Professional Installation: nbn® provides free professional installation and maintenance, ensuring a hassle-free setup and reliable service.
- Costs and Plans:
Affordable Options: Sky Muster Plus offers a variety of plans to different needs, all with unlimited data for activities.
No Upfront Equipment Costs: The necessary equipment and installation are provided free of charge, and there are no additional fees for moving or upgrading services.
- Customer Support:
Australian-Based Service: Sky Muster Plus customers benefit from our Australian-based customer service, available via phone, email, and social media. This ensures prompt and reliable support, which is crucial for remote users.
Starlink vs. Sky Muster Plus
| Feature | Sky Muster Plus | Starlink |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Nationwide coverage, no limits on premises installations. | Nationwide coverage. |
| Customer Support | Australian-based, direct phone, email, and social media support. | Online support only, no local phone number. |
| Plans and Pricing | Various affordable plans with unlimited data. | Single plan at $139/month. |
| Installation and Maintenance | Free professional installation and maintenance. | DIY setup, additional costs for professional installation. |
| Equipment Costs | Free equipment and installation. | $924 for the kit. |
| Power Consumption | Moderate. | High. |
*NOTE: The above comparison table is based on information made available on 24/05/2024.
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Starlink Business Plans
Skymesh now offers Starlink business plans, extending our range of connectivity solutions to meet the diverse needs of commercial users. Whether you’re seeking reliable internet for a fixed site, land mobility, maritime operations, or aviation, our tailored Starlink plans ensure fast, dependable connectivity, even in remote locations.
Connect with Skymesh today to explore how our Starlink business plans can elevate your business connectivity.
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You can now manage your account, track your data usage, and talk to our support team right from your phone. Download our app today which is available for both iOS and Android.
