Since the initial announcement in 2015, the number of Starlink satellites launched into Low Earth Orbit has exceeded 1,300. SpaceX hopes to improve the performance, availability, stability and coverage of its internet service even further, as more satellites are launched in the near future. However, unlike with other internet service providers that typically allow tiered pricing, a more flexible payment system where consumers can opt to only pay for a specific service package that best suits their needs, Starlink is only being offered at $99 per month. That's without taking into consideration that customers are required to purchase a starter package that amounts to over $500 in total.
SpaceX doesn't intend to make any changes to those considerably high figures any time soon, according to tiered pricing options to consumers, stating there are “no plans” of implementing additional plans or packages.
Is Starlink Internet Worth It?
SpaceX is quite adamant on keeping the Starlink's pricing as it is, without offering much room for choice. Therefore, is Starlink still worth the cost in its current state? While pre-orders are already available for consumers residing in the U.S., Canada and the UK, the internet plan does come with come with caveats as well. This includes a lengthy waiting period which could last as long as six months. Not to mention, g up doesn't automatically guarantee access to Starlink's services.
However, Starlink does offer benefits that are not typically found with other internet service providers. For example, a beta tester previously reported getting surprisingly fast internet speeds using Starlink in an area with zero network coverage. Starlink's steep price could be worth it if s are looking to get internet in remote locations that tend to prove problematic with other service providers, especially if there's are no other alternatives. Other than that, there's little incentive for consumers to pay a fixed $99 monthly internet fee to SpaceX when there are other ISPs that offer more flexible packages at a lower price.
Source: CNBC