Starlink’s new RV plan lets buyers skip the line if they pay more for worse service

Image: Starlink

The service is only intended for use at the specific location where the user is registered, as Starlink is still scaling up its constellation of internet satellites. It will allow users to take their dish somewhere else every now and then with the service's new "portability" feature.

It warns users that they will be de-prioritized while away from home if they don't have at- home service first. If you are a vanlifer or RV enthusiast who is willing to buy a dish without having an address with priority service, Starlink will let you sign up and grab a dish. Although the service is not set up to work while in motion and the antenna is too large for your car, there is no waiting required.

Some fans who signed up for home service have shipping dates that aren't due until 2023, but not everyone is happy about it.

Image: Starlink

It won't be cheap to take that route. My home address is on the wait list for Starlink service, but I could sign up for a dish today with a down payment of $100 and an estimated $110 monthly service price. If I choose Starlink for RVs, I can get a dish shipped to me immediately if I pay DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch DropCatch

I would enjoy best effort service and the option to pause service for months when I don't need it. The Starlink for RVs FAQ states that network resources are always de-prioritized for Starlink for RVs users compared to other Starlink services, resulting in degraded service and slower speeds in congested areas and during peak hours. Stated speeds and use of the service are not guaranteed. The areas on the Starlink Availability Map will be the most degraded.

It means that anyone who tries to use the RV program to get Starlink home internet is in danger. It's your choice, but it would cost more and have slower service, making waiting seem more worthwhile.