What’s The Best Router for Starlink? It Isn’t What You Think!

WRITTEN BY

NETGEAR Orbi Team

Understanding Starlink: A New Era of Internet Service

What is Starlink Satellite Internet?


Starlink represents a significant leap in internet technology, offering high-speed, satellite-based internet services globally. This innovative solution by SpaceX is designed to provide reliable internet access, especially in areas where traditional broadband is unavailable or inefficient. Compared to traditional satellite internet, Starlink has superior speed and latency, similar to traditional broadband options.

Why the Right Router Makes a Difference

While Starlink opens the door to high-speed internet, the router you choose is key to unlocking its full potential. The standard router provided with Starlink, much like those offered by typical ISPs, delivers basic functionality. However, for users seeking to get the latest WiFi technology, improved security, performance, and WiFi range to maximize their Starlink experience, an average Starlink router simply won’t suffice.

The Superior Choice: Why a Mesh System is Ideal for Starlink

A Mesh WiFi system emerges as the ultimate router solution for Starlink users. Mesh systems transcends the limitations of traditional routers, offering expansive coverage, seamless connectivity, and enhanced performance – essential for the high-speed, low-latency nature of Starlink internet.

    Key Features That Set Mesh Routers Apart

  • Expansive Coverage: Mesh routers excel in delivering wide-ranging WiFi coverage, eliminating dead zones even in large or complex layouts.
  • Seamless Connectivity: Enjoy uninterrupted WiFi as you move around your home, thanks to the smooth network transition between mesh WiFi nodes.
  • Optimized for Multiple Devices: Mesh systems are designed to handle numerous connections simultaneously, ensuring stable performance for every device.
  • Advanced Network Management: User-friendly interfaces allow for effortless setup and customization of your home network.

Learn More: What is a Mesh System?


Experience the Best Starlink WiFi With NETGEAR’s Mesh Systems and Advanced Nighthawk Routers

In the world of Mesh WiFi systems & Routers, NETGEAR presents two exceptional choices for boosting Starlink WiFi Range: Orbi and Nighthawk Routers. Both are designed to enhance your Starlink connection, each with unique features catering to different user needs.

Orbi Mesh WiFi: Sophistication and Performance

Orbi stands out as a premier choice for those seeking a seamless, high-end online experience with Starlink. Its sophisticated design and advanced technology are tailored to complement Starlink’s capabilities. Orbi ensures a premium, uninterrupted WiFi experience, making it ideal for users who prioritize consistent coverage and robust performance in large homes. Shop Orbi 970 Series WiFi 7 Mesh System

Nighthawk Routers: Power and Flexibility

Alongside Orbi, Nighthawk series of routers offers a compelling alternative, especially if your WiFi coverage range requirements are 3,000 sq.ft. or less. Known for its powerful performance and flexibility, the Nighthawk is perfect for anybody that demands high-speed WiFi with advanced features. It excels in environments with multiple devices, offering enhanced capabilities for gaming, streaming, and heavy internet usage. The Nighthawk Mesh system is designed to provide not only extensive coverage but also for its high-speed performance, which makes it a great addition to a Starlink. Shop Nighthawk RS700S WiFi 7 Gaming Router.

Choosing the Right Router for Starlink: Key Considerations

When selecting a router for your Starlink service, consider the following:

  • Coverage Needs: Assess the size and layout of your space to determine the coverage range required. Decide if a Mesh system or advanced router better suits your home.
  • Device Capacity: Choose a router that can efficiently support the number of devices in your household. Modern WiFi 7 routers with Tri-Band and Quad-Band support the most connections.
  • Performance Requirements: For activities like gaming or high-definition streaming, opt for a router with superior WiFi performance features.
  • User-Friendly Interface: A router with an intuitive management system simplifies network setup and maintenance.
  • Advanced WiFi Security: Both Orbi and Nighthawk support NETGEAR Armor™ – An automatic shield of security for WiFi and connected devices. (Phone, PC, cameras, TV etc.) for real-time protection. A VPN is also available for additional privacy.

Starlink "Gen 3" Mesh Router Range & Performance

There are reliable reports that a new Mesh-capable Starlink Gen 3 Router with WiFi 6 is in the works. Although the rumored specifications do improve on the standard generation 2 Starlink WiFi 5 router, it’s overall performance still leaves much to be desired in overall performance capability compared to the top performing Mesh WiFi systems. Although additional nodes can be added to the Gen 2 and Gen 3 Starlink routers it is highly recommend to simply use the Starlink Router & satellite dish as a modem and the link it to a top-performing mesh system to blanket your home or RV and surroundings property in in powerful WiFi.

Starlink Gen 2 Vs Starlink Gen 3 Router

Starlink Gen 2 Router
(Shipping Now)
Starlink Gen 3 Mesh Router
(Limited Availability)
Orbi 970 Series Mesh System
(Readily Available)
WiFi 5: 802.11ac WiFi 6: 802.11ax WiFi 7: 802.11be
Dual-Band: 3×3 Tri-Band: 4×4 Quad-Band: 4×4
Ethernet: Extra
hardware needed
Ethernet: 2-ports Ethernet: 10Gb & 4x 2.5Gb
on each device
Range: Up to 2000 Sq Ft. Range: Est 2,500 sq ft. Range: Up to 10,000 Sq Ft.
(3-pack)
Speed: Est. 1.8Gbps Speed: Est. 4Gbs Speed: Up to 27Gbps
Mesh: Limited
Up to 3 Nodes
Mesh: Yes, Tri-Band Mesh: Quad Band 5Ghz + 6Ghz
Security: WPA2 Security: WPA2 Security: WPA3 &
Additional Services Available.

Video: How to Setup Starlink Ethernet Adapter with an Orbi 970 Mesh System

Follow along with our step-by-step video guide for a seamless integration that enhances your Starlink WiFi network coverage with WiFi 7 speeds and mesh capabilities.

To setup Starlink with Orbi WiFi will require the use of a Starlink Antenna and the basic starlink Router and cabling. You will also need a Starlink Ethernet Adapter – available online and at Starlink retailers. The Starlink adapter will allow you to use your Starlink Router in conjunction with an Orbi Mesh system. Read our Starlink Setup with Orbi Knowlegebase article for detailed instructions.

Why Settle for Average When Excellence Awaits?

While Starlink’s standard router may suffice for basic internet needs, it’s similar to pairing a high-performance engine with standard gears. Upgrading to a Mesh WiFi system such as Orbi or a performance Nighthawk Router, ensures that you are leveraging every aspect of Starlink’s advanced capabilities. Embrace the full potential of your Starlink service with a router that’s designed to excel.