The $599 Starlink Mini combines the terminal and Wi-Fi router into a single dish that’s so efficient, it can be powered by a portable battery.
That's despite needing to lock onto a constellation of Starlink satellites traveling at speeds of 17,000mph about 350 miles above the Earth. The whole device fits into a small backpack with room left over for a laptop, folding solar panel, and a pocket-size USB-C power bank, offering hours of connectivity, says The Verve.
The device is aimed at anyone wanting to combine remote work with off-grid adventures by foot, bike, boat, or van - either for an extended weekend trip or as a lifestyle.
The Verve's reviewer says: "After more than a month of regular use in five European countries with up to 10 active devices on the same connection, I can say that if you’re looking for fast internet with low (enough) latency that you can deploy quickly in places where 4G and 5G don’t reach, then the Starlink Mini is for you."
Pricing for the Starlink Mini varies widely by region. SpaceX sells the kits for less in underserved locations and more “in high-usage areas like the US, where Starlink Mini places additional demand on the satellite network.” Currently, that means the kit costs $599 in the US, but is priced closer to $200 in Guatemala.
You also have to pay for service, which - importantly - can be paused for the months you’re not using it. In the US, the Starlink Mini is available with either the Roam 50GB ($50 / month) plan or Roam Unlimited ($165 / month).
It's up to you to decide if the cost of the Starlink Mini kit and subscription are worth it for the lifestyle it enables.