What is satellite broadband?
Satellite broadband is promoted to people who can't get a normal broadband service. Here we explain all you need to know about it - including what's available from Starlink
Is satellite broadband the right choice for you? Our expert guide will help you decide whether you should invest in a satellite internet connection.
Most of us have standard broadband that uses a traditional wired connection. However, if you live in a rural area, accessing a decent connection can be difficult. Full fibre broadband services may not be available and, while slower packages may be an option, they're often so slow that they're virtually useless for modern needs.
One possible solution is to use a satellite internet service. Read on to find out more about this type of connection, including the service offered by Starlink, to discover whether it's right for you.
We surveyed thousands of broadband customers so we can reveal the best broadband providers.
How does satellite broadband work?
Rather than relying on a network of wires or cables, satellite broadband is transmitted wirelessly via a dish installed on your property. It works in a similar way to satellite TV, except those services just receive information. With a satellite broadband connection you also send (upload) data back to the satellite.
The main advantage of satellite broadband is that it can be provided virtually anywhere in the world - generally as long as you have a clear, unobstructed line of sight to the sky (where the satellite will be).
What is Starlink broadband?
Starlink is a satellite-based internet service operated by SpaceX, a company founded by Elon Musk. Traditional satellite broadband relies on large satellites positioned very high above the earth. Starlink uses thousands of smaller satellites in a lower orbit, instead.
This means data from Starlink satellites has less distance to travel - so your connection is less likely to experience latency (lags or delays) than older-style satellite broadband.
How fast is satellite broadband?
Speeds can vary considerably depending on the provider. Older satellites could only offer speeds from around 12Mbps, but more modern alternatives can reach up to 300Mbps.
While the top speeds put it on par with modern fibre services, you also need to consider the latency of satellite services. This is the lag or delay caused by transmitting data thousands of miles to the service's satellite. Latency won't be a concern for simple web browsing, but will be a real problem if you're playing online video games (which demand instant reactions) or making video calls.
Latency is less of an issue with Starlink because its satellites are much closer to the ground. Like most broadband providers, Starlink offers several packages but it advertises maximum rather than average speeds. Its three tiers are:
- Residential 100 - up to 100Mbps
- Residential 200 - up to 200Mbps
- Residential Max - the highest possible speed in your area
Be aware that in certain areas, Starlink may not offer the full range of packages - and the maximum speed possible can be lower. Residential Max can exceed 300Mbps in certain areas but can top out at less than half of this in others.
Check how fast your internet connection is with our free broadband speed test.
How much does satellite broadband cost?
Traditional satellite broadband is usually much more expensive than fixed line broadband. As well as paying a monthly package fee, you'll also need to pay for installation and equipment, which can cost upwards of £300.
Some satellite providers will let you rent equipment, which is cheaper in the short term, but you'll be held responsible for any damage to it. If you have it long-term, you may also end up paying out more than if you'd just bought it upfront.
Monthly prices for traditional services tend to start at around £20 a month, rising to more than £100. However, the cheapest packages come with very small data allowances – often as little as 10GB a month. This won't allow you to do much more than web browsing or emailing and the occasional bit of streaming.
How much does a Starlink connection cost?
Starlink internet is also usually pricier than fixed line broadband (even ultrafast full fibre offerings), though it's become more competitively priced in recent years. Residential connections typically start at between £35 to £75 per month depending on the speeds available in your area. There is no data cap if you take out a residential connection from Starlink (roaming connections are also available with a data limit).
You may also have to pay an upfront fee for Starlink hardware and this can be pricey - usually £300-450. However, promotional offers are often available with upfront fees even being waived entirely occasionally.
Should I get satellite broadband or Starlink?
The high costs, latency issues and small data limits (most ADSL and cable packages include unlimited allowances) mean that traditional satellite broadband isn't likely to appeal to many. There are other factors to consider as well, such as the impact of bad weather on a connection.
However, Starlink is a different prospect. People who currently live in areas where full fibre is yet to be rolled out may find it offers a significantly faster connection than an old copper line. Helpfully, Starlink offers rolling deals (rather than fixed term contracts), so could be worth considering as a short term solution while you wait for full fibre to come to you area - though be wary of large upfront fees.
But for many people, a mobile internet connection with a 4G or 5G dongle could be just as good a bet - and more competitively priced. And if you have access to a full fibre connection that will always be a more affordable and reliable connection than satellite broadband, even from Starlink.