Starlink is a lifesaver in areas where it isnโt feasible to deploy wired DSL and broadband connections. It uses low-orbit satellites which transmit signals to a receiver on your roof.
The biggest USP of Starlink is that it’s easy to set up without requiring any technical know-how. The overall latency is minimal, considering that it’s satellite internet. Its plans are higher than those of a traditional broadband plan, but you can save some money on your Starlink connection.
There are multiple programs that can effectively shrink your overall Starlink bill. In some special cases, you can even get Starlink for free.
We will discuss the current pricing structure and the special programs to help you get a Starlink connection at the lowest possible price.
How Much Does Starlink Internet Cost?
Starlink initially launched at a monthly price of $99 in some select regions but has now increased the price to $120 a month and offers a speed of 25-100Mbps. If you find it lacking especially if you want to play multiplayer games or 4K streaming, thereโs a Priority plan available for $140-$500 with a speed of 40-220Mbps.
The wireless internet service also has multiple plan categories.
For example, the Residential plan, which starts at $120, is best for homes, while the Roam plan caters to users who move a lot (explorers, RV enthusiasts, etc). It starts at $50 for 50 GB (which isn’t good for gaming), while the unlimited plan is $165.
Lastly, there is a Boats plan for people who need robust internet while venturing into uncharted waters. It is the most expensive and starts at $250.
Note: Thereโs also a one-time cost for the router and the satellite dish. It’s $299, and you donโt have to pay anything (rent or maintenance) after thatโonly monthly or annual renewal payments to keep using the service.
Does Starlink Have a Free Trial?
Yes. Starlink does offer a free trial of 30 days. In this period, you can test its satellite internet capabilities and return it within 30 days if you donโt like the overall experience.
The free trial is helpful because many Starlink users complain about regular outages, especially during bad weather. So, you can use it to try their service and make a decision accordingly.
How to Get a Starlink Connection for $1?
Starlink ran a special offer in May 2024, which allowed you to grab their satellite internet connection for merely $1. Of course, it was a trial-plan, but you didnโt have to pay $599 upfront to get the whole kit.
The company revised the plan to $50, which is still a good deal. You can use Starlink for a month and stick with it if you get a stable connection and manageable speed. Note that youโll have to pay the monthly $120 bill when you start your trial.
If you want to return it, youโll get a full refund which includes $50 and the monthly service plan cost.
How to Get Starlink for Free?
Using Starlink without paying a dime is a fantasy for many, but there are very few cases where this happens. Starlink recently announced unlimited free internet to all areas affected by Hurricane Helene.
This is a special case where even the cellular connection failed to work. Similarly, United Airlines partnered with Starlink to offer internet connectivity in the air. However, there are no such plans for residential users that offer Starlink internet for free (limited or unlimited).
So, youโll have to register and pay to get a connection and then make regular payments to keep using the Starlink internet service.
It’s best to stick with other free internet services (public Wi-Fi) if you cannot afford Starlink or any broadband internet plan. Public Wi-Fi has a security risk associated with it, so tread cautiously.
Wrapping Up
Starlink is a niche-case wireless internet service best suited for remote areas. If you have a good ISP in your area, thereโs a good chance itโs cheaper and more reliable than Starlink.
We didnโt find any programs that offer Starlink free for a lifetime. But you can use the $50 trial plan to use their internet for less than 30 days and then return it.
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