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What does Starlink Mini cost?
Starlink's US Roam page advertises a $199 Mini Kit offer with an activation benefit. This is an offer, not a fixed price for every order. Check the hardware charge, taxes, shipping and offer terms before you pay.
| Roam plan | Monthly service | Data |
|---|---|---|
| Roam 100GB | $50 | 100 GB |
| Roam Unlimited | $165 | Unlimited Roam data |
For occasional trips, compare the 100GB plan with how much data you expect to use. If you travel often or work on the road, compare Unlimited. Confirm the plans and terms offered to you on Starlink's site.
Mini vs V5 and Standard
Mini is not the same as the V5 home dish or the separate product called Router Mini. Mini has its own Wi-Fi router built into the dish. V5 uses a separate router.
| Spec | Mini | V5 |
|---|---|---|
| Dish size | 11.75 x 10.2 in | 15.1 x 12 in |
| Dish weight | 2.43 lb | 2.4 lb |
| Average power | 25 to 40 W | 35 to 50 W |
| Wi-Fi | Built-in Wi-Fi 5 | Separate router |
The older Standard V4 dish is larger at 23.4 x 15.1 inches, weighs 6.4 pounds and averages 75 to 100 watts. Mini's advantage is packing a smaller, lower-power kit, not a promise of faster home internet. See the V5 comparison.
Powering Mini away from home
You need a suitable power source as well as open sky. Mini accepts 12 to 48V DC. For USB-C power, Starlink specifies a 100W supply rated at least 20V/5A, used with its USB-C to barrel jack cable accessory. An ordinary phone charger is not enough.
Average use is 25 to 40W, but that is not the same as the required power supply rating. Check your battery or vehicle power setup against Starlink's specifications before your trip.
Can you use Mini while moving?
Starlink's current US Roam page says in-motion use is supported on all Roam service plans. Before you use it while moving, check Starlink's current rules for your kit, mount, location and plan. Do not assume a loose campsite setup is suitable for a moving vehicle.
V5 is different: Starlink says the V5 dish is not intended for in-motion use.
Trips, backup and a clear sky
If you want Mini as a backup connection, plan for a suitable power source and check the service offered to you. It is not a battery-powered hotspot by itself, and it still needs a clear sky.
Mini is not a workaround for a house surrounded by trees, or a replacement for the home kit just because the view is blocked. Mini still needs an unobstructed view of the sky. Use the Starlink app to check your campsite or mounting spot. Portability does not remove the need for a clear view past trees and roofs.
If you want internet mainly at one home, compare the home kit and service offered at your address before choosing Mini. Start with Starlink costs and availability at your address.
Sources: Starlink US Roam: kit offer, plans and in-motion use; Mini specification sheet; V5 specification sheet; Standard V4 specification sheet; Starlink V4 vs V5. Prices, plans and availability change. Speeds are not guaranteed. Starlink sets the final price and terms.
Background is an illustrative travel scene, not a Starlink product photo.