SpaceX’s Starlink internet-from-space service has been making waves, offering high-speed internet access to a wide range of users, from remote Amazonian villages to rural homes. Now, the company is gearing up to revolutionize internet access for backpackers with the introduction of the new compact DC-powered Starlink Mini. This innovative device, about the size of a thick laptop, integrates the Wi-Fi router right inside the dish, making it a game-changer in the world of portable internet access.
One of the standout features of the Starlink Mini is its exceptional power efficiency. Despite being smaller and using less power than other Starlink terminals, the Mini is capable of delivering speeds over 100Mbps. With an average power consumption of just 20-40W, the Mini is designed to be incredibly portable. Users can power the Mini dish for two to three hours from a power bank like the Anker Prime 27,650mAh, making it ideal for on-the-go connectivity.
The Starlink Mini boasts a compact design, measuring 11.75 x 10.2 x 1.45 inches and weighing just 2.43 pounds. With the addition of the 49.2-foot DC power cable and kickstand, the weight increases to 3.37 pounds. Despite its portable size, the Mini is built to last, with an IP67 rating that protects it from dust and rain, including short periods of water immersion. This durability makes it an ideal choice for rugged outdoor adventures.
Pricing and Availability
In the US, the Starlink Mini is available as an add-on to Residential plans. The Mini kit costs $599, which is $100 more than the standard dish, and requires an additional $30 per month to add the Mini Roam service to existing $120 Residential plans. This service gives Starlink Mini users up to 50GB of mobile data each month, with the option to purchase more for $1 per GB. While the Starlink Mini is currently new to the US, it is already available in countries like Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Panama, with plans to expand to more markets over time.
SpaceX’s goal with the Starlink Mini is to reduce the cost of internet access, particularly in areas where connectivity has been unaffordable or entirely unavailable. By offering a portable, high-speed internet solution for backpackers, SpaceX is helping to bridge the digital divide and provide more people around the world with access to the online resources and opportunities they need.
The SpaceX Starlink Mini is set to revolutionize internet access for backpackers, providing a portable, high-speed solution that is both efficient and durable. With its compact design, power efficiency, and affordability, the Starlink Mini has the potential to transform the way backpackers stay connected while on the go.
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