Starlink, an American satellite internet company, has introduced its more budget-friendly Starlink Mini offering in Kenya. This announcement comes after the company’s initial launch in the country in July 2023, where it has been steadily gaining attention for its competitive pricing and superior internet speeds.
However, the high cost of Starlink’s hardware has been a significant barrier for many potential customers. The introduction of Starlink Mini was foreshadowed by Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur behind Starlink, who mentioned in June that a less expensive terminal option would be available later in the year.
True to his word, Starlink has now unveiled the Mini kit, priced at 27,000 Kenyan Shillings (Ksh), with monthly service plans starting from Ksh 1,300.
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How to Rent and Order Starlink in Kenya (And Prices)
Starlink Packages in Kenya
Starlink Mini Prices in Kenya
Starlink has officially launched its Starlink Mini kit in the Kenyan market, offering a lower-cost alternative to its standard service.
Here are the costs to expect:
1. Hardware Cost
The Starlink Mini kit is priced at 27,000 Kenyan Shillings (Ksh). This represents a significant reduction compared to the standard Starlink kit, making the initial investment more accessible to a broader range of Kenyan consumers.
2. Monthly Service Plans
The monthly service plans for Starlink Mini start from Ksh 1,300
Note: It’s important for potential customers to review the full terms and conditions of the Starlink Mini service, including any limitations on speed, data usage, or coverage areas, to ensure it meets their specific needs.
How to Order Starlink Mini in Kenya
Convinced that Starlink is the real deal? Well, here’s how to order one for yourself:
1. Visit the official website (https://www.starlink.com/) and click service address to detect your location.
2. Allow location and click order now. By now Starlink will pick your location to determine if the mini kit is available for you.
3. Choose the Mini Hardware and your preferred service option. In this case, you can select the 1,300 package.
4. Fill out your personal information to order Starlink Mini
5. Place order for Starlink Mini and make payment
Differences Between Starlink Mini and Starlink Standard
| Feature | Starlink Mini | Starlink Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Kit Cost | Ksh 27,000 | Ksh 45,000 |
| Monthly Package (Starting) | From Ksh 1,300 | 50GB at Ksh 1,300 |
| Coverage Area | 112 square meters | 297 square meters |
| Recommended Use | Basic internet applications, fixed and mobile settings | Demanding uses like video streaming and gaming |
| Environmental Durability | Standard | Can withstand harsh environmental conditions |
| Device Support | Up to 128 devices | Up to 235 devices |
| WiFi | Integrated WiFi | Separate Gen 3 WiFi router |
| Portability | More compact and portable | Less portable |
Comparing the Mini to the Standard version, the new offering is more compact and portable, though it covers a smaller area (112 square meters versus 297 square meters for the Standard).
The Starlink Mini kit will cost Ksh.27,000, with monthly packages starting from Ksh.1,300. The standard kit is currently priced at Sh45,000.
The Mini is designed for basic internet applications in both fixed and mobile settings, while the Standard version is better suited for more demanding uses like video streaming and gaming, and can withstand harsher environmental conditions.
In terms of connectivity, the Starlink Mini can support up to 128 devices, whereas the Standard version can handle up to 235. Another key difference is that the Mini comes with integrated WiFi, while the Standard includes a separate Gen 3 WiFi router.
Evolving Pricing Strategy
Starlink has been progressively reducing its hardware costs in Kenya. The original kit was priced at Ksh 74,000, but this has decreased over time as the company expanded its distribution to retail stores and online marketplaces. Recent promotions have seen the price drop as low as Ksh 29,000.
In a move to make their service even more accessible, Starlink recently introduced a rental option in Kenya. This new plan requires a one-time activation fee of Ksh 2,700, followed by a monthly hardware rental fee of Ksh 1,950.
Service plans under this option start at Ksh 1,300 per month for a 50 GB data allowance, while still providing speeds of up to 200 Mbps.
How to Order Starlink Mini in Kenya Inforgraphic
Market Disruption and Controversy
The entry of Starlink into the Kenyan market has not been without controversy. Safaricom, the dominant player in Kenya’s fixed broadband market with a 36.7% share, has publicly objected to Starlink’s presence.
The company has petitioned the Kenyan government to reconsider its decision to license satellite internet providers, citing concerns about potential illegal connections and interference with existing mobile network operators.
Despite Safaricom’s protests, the Kenyan government appears to be embracing the increased competition. President William Ruto recently commented that Starlink’s entry has spurred existing providers to improve their services.
In an apparent response to this new competitive landscape, Safaricom has announced enhanced internet speeds and a new high-end package offering 1 Gbps speeds for Ksh 20,000 per month.
This development marks a significant shift in Kenya’s internet service market, potentially leading to improved services and more affordable options for consumers across the country.
