Imagine having reliable, high-speed internet access anywhere—even in the most remote areas where traditional providers can’t reach. That’s the promise of Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet service that’s revolutionizing global connectivity. Whether you live off the beaten path or travel frequently to places where Wi-Fi is unreliable, Starlink ensures you stay connected, no matter where you are.
Now, with the introduction of the Starlink Mini, you have two options: the compact, portable Starlink Mini or the powerful, high-performance Starlink Standard. In this article, I’ll break down everything you need to know about Starlink Mini vs. Standard, including their performance, speed, coverage, and ideal use cases, so you can choose the best option for your needs.
Overview of Starlink kits
Starlink Mini: a compact, portable option
The Starlink Mini Kit is a portable internet solution built for those who need reliable connectivity on the go. Lighter and more compact than the Standard version, it’s perfect for travellers, digital nomads, and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re camping, road-tripping, or need a mobile internet connection, the Mini provides high-speed, low-latency service. However, it has some trade-offs in speed and coverage, making it better suited for lighter internet use.
Starlink Standard: a powerful home internet solution
The Starlink Standard kit is the original, full-sized Starlink system designed for high-performance internet at home or in the office. Offering faster speeds, better coverage, and more stable connections, it’s perfect for those who need a reliable, long-term internet solution. Though more powerful, it’s less portable and consumes more power, making it more suitable for permanent setups. Read our full review to learn more.
Key differences between Starlink Mini vs. Standard
While both Starlink kits connect you to the same satellite network, there are some important differences in design, coverage, and performance:
| Feature | Starlink Mini | Starlink Standard |
| Size and portability | Compact, lightweight, and travel-friendly. | Larger, designed for permanent installation. |
| Performance | Suitable for browsing, emails, and light streaming. | Higher speeds for gaming, video calls, and 4K streaming. |
| Coverage | Best for small areas and travel use. | Covers larger areas with stronger connectivity. |
| Power consumption | Lower energy usage, ideal for mobile setups. | Higher power consumption but delivers stronger performance. |
| Ideal for | Travellers, campers, and light users. | Homes, businesses, and heavy internet users. |
Performance comparison: Starlink Mini vs. Standard
When comparing performance, the key differences are speed, latency, and network congestion handling.
Speed & latency
- Starlink Mini: Offers speeds up to 100 Mbps (Roam plan) with latency between 30-60 ms, which is sufficient for streaming HD content, casual gaming, and video calls. It’s fast enough for most daily internet needs.
- Starlink Standard: Reaches speeds of up to 220 Mbps (Residential plan), with some areas reaching 250 Mbps. Latency ranges from 20-40 ms, making it better for 4K video streaming, large file downloads, and high-speed gaming.
Verdict: If you need faster speeds for high-demand activities like gaming or 4K streaming, Starlink Standard is the better choice. The Mini works well for basic internet usage.
Network congestion resistance
Satellite internet performance can fluctuate based on how many users are connected to the network at the same time. During peak hours, speeds may drop, especially if the network is congested.
- Starlink Mini: More affected by congestion because it relies on Starlink’s Roam plans, which prioritize home users over travellers.
- Starlink Standard: Handles congestion better thanks to its larger dish and more powerful signal.
Verdict: If you need consistent speeds during peak times, Starlink Standard offers more stability.
Power consumption
Power use is an important factor for those traveling in RVs, living off-grid, or using solar power.
- Starlink Mini: Consumes only 25-40W, making it ideal for portable setups with limited power access.
- Starlink Standard: Uses 75-100W, which is higher but necessary for better performance.
Verdict: If energy efficiency is key, Starlink Mini is the better option. If performance is more important than power efficiency, go for the Starlink Standard.
Which Starlink kit is right for you?
Now that we’ve broken down the key differences between the Starlink Mini and Starlink Standard, it’s time to determine which one best fits your needs. Choosing the right kit depends on your lifestyle, internet usage, and mobility requirements.
Who should choose the Starlink Mini?
- Frequent travellers or digital nomads: If you’re always on the move or working remotely, the Starlink Mini is a game-changer. Its portability means you can stay connected no matter where your job or travels take you.
- Small households or light internet users: Ideal for individuals or smaller households that only need internet for basic browsing, streaming HD, or occasional video calls. The Starlink Mini offers an efficient and cost-effective solution.
- Outdoor enthusiasts, campers, or RV owners: If you love the great outdoors but still want reliable internet access while camping or travelling in an RV, the Starlink Mini provides fast satellite-powered internet even in remote locations.
- Emergency backup internet: The Starlink Mini is great for emergency situations like power outages or natural disasters, ensuring you stay connected when you need it most.
- Backpackers or adventure travellers: For those who roam off the beaten path, whether hiking in the wilderness or exploring far-flung destinations, the Starlink Mini offers an easy-to-carry, high-performance option to keep you connected wherever adventure takes you.
If portability, low power usage, and emergency access are your top priorities, the Starlink Mini is your best option.
Who should choose Starlink Standard?
- Larger families or homes in rural areas: If you have a large household or live in a rural area, the Starlink Standard provides the coverage and speed needed to support multiple users, ensuring smooth internet access for everyone, from kids streaming movies to adults working remotely.
- Heavy internet users: Ideal for those who need reliable internet for large file downloads, video conferencing, or 4K streaming. It delivers the speed and stability required for uninterrupted usage.
- Rural businesses or farms: For businesses or farms in rural locations, the Starlink Standard offers the robust connection you need to stay connected with clients and manage operations smoothly.
- Gamers or streamers: Whether you’re an avid gamer or a content creator, the Starlink Standard ensures you have the speed and low latency required for high-performance gaming and seamless streaming, giving you the edge you need for a smooth, lag-free experience.
If you need high-speed, reliable, and full-time internet for your home, work, or entertainment, the Starlink Standard is the better choice.
Frequently asked questions
Is Starlink available in Canada?
Yes! Both the Starlink Mini and Starlink Standard are available in Canada and can be purchased at Best Buy Canada. Starlink provides high-speed satellite internet access to remote, rural, and underserved areas across the country. To check availability in your area, visit the Starlink website.
Which Starlink option is better for remote work or gaming?
For remote work, either option can work depending on your needs. The Starlink Mini is sufficient for video calls and light browsing, while the Starlink Standard is better if you need faster speeds or plan on gaming or using bandwidth-heavy applications.
Can I use Starlink in rural areas or while traveling with the Mini model?
Yes, the Starlink Mini is perfect for rural areas or on-the-go use. Its compact design and portability make it easy to set up and use wherever you are.
How do I get a Starlink service plan?
To get a Starlink service plan, simply visit the Starlink website, enter your location, and choose the plan that suits your needs. The Starlink Mini works with the Roam plan, while the Standard supports multiple plans like Residential and Priority.
Final verdict: which Starlink kit is right for you?
Both the Starlink Mini and Starlink Standard offer reliable satellite internet solutions, but they cater to different needs. The right choice depends on your lifestyle and internet usage. If you’re constantly on the go or need portability, the Starlink Mini is perfect. However, if you need faster speeds, more stability, and a reliable internet connection for home use, gaming, or business, the Starlink Standard is the better option.
Ready to embrace the future of satellite internet? Find the right Starlink kit for you today at Best Buy Canada!
