India is on the verge of a major shift in Internet connectivity, with SpaceX’s Starlink expected to launch its satellite-based broadband service in the country. The Elon Musk-led company is reportedly exploring partnerships with telecom giants Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel. However, before services can commence, regulatory approval from the Indian government remains a crucial hurdle.
The arrival of Starlink is particularly relevant for India’s rural and remote regions, where broadband infrastructure is still lacking. While metropolitan cities enjoy high-speed fiber connections, vast portions of the country continue to struggle with slow or no Internet access. Starlink’s satellite technology aims to bridge this gap by bypassing terrestrial limitations, ensuring connectivity even in the most isolated locations.
What would it be like to get the Starlink experience? What sort of download speeds can you expect? What all do you keep in mind while setting up? How much would it cost you? Let’s answer all your questions.
What Speeds Can Starlink Users Expect?
Starlink delivers Internet via a network of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites designed to provide broadband speeds between 25 Mbps and 200 Mbps, with minimal latency. As of February 27, 2025, there are approximately 7,086 Starlink satellites in orbit, with 7,052 actively operational. This expansive satellite fleet enables users in challenging environments — mountainous regions, deep jungles, or open seas—to stay connected.
Setting up Starlink is relatively simple. Users need to install an antenna with a clear view of the sky, avoiding obstructions from buildings or trees. The flat-panel dish, which resembles a traditional satellite TV antenna, connects directly to Starlink satellites, delivering Internet access that functions like any standard Wi-Fi network. The service remains stable regardless of cloud cover or weather conditions.
Is Starlink Faster Than AirFiber?
India’s existing AirFiber services, provided by Jio and Airtel, operate differently from Starlink. These wireless broadband solutions rely on 5G and Wi-Fi 6 technology to beam high-speed Internet to homes and businesses. Instead of satellites, AirFiber depends on nearby 5G network towers to transmit signals to rooftop antennas or indoor receivers. This method offers speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 200 Mbps, making it a viable alternative in areas where fiber connections are impractical.
Unlike traditional cellular networks that distribute signals broadly, AirFiber directs concentrated bandwidth to specific locations, ensuring more stable connectivity. While effective, this technology is still dependent on ground-based infrastructure, limiting its reach compared to satellite-based services like Starlink.
How To Set Up Starlink?
Installing Starlink is straightforward. Users can determine the best location using the “Check for Obstructions” tool on the Starlink app. Once the dish is powered on, it automatically aligns itself to connect with overhead satellites. Starlink Standard Actuated and Starlink High Performance models self-level for optimal signal acquisition, while other variants require manual alignment.
After the initial setup, the system may undergo automatic software updates to enhance performance. Once fully configured, users can enjoy high-speed Internet on their devices without additional setup.
How Much Will Starlink Cost in India?
While Starlink has not revealed its official pricing for India, insights from Bhutan’s market provide a reference point. According to the company’s website, two subscription options are available:
- Starlink Residential: Priced at BTN 4,200 (approximately Rs 4,203) per month, offering unlimited data.
- Starlink Residential Lite: Available for BTN 3,000 (approximately Rs 3,002) per month, providing deprioritized data during peak hours.
How Much Will Starlink Hardware Cost?
Starlink’s biggest cost barrier lies in its hardware. The company offers two options:
- Starlink Mini: A portable device with built-in Wi-Fi, low power consumption, and speeds exceeding 100 Mbps, priced at BTN 17,000 (approximately Rs 17,013).
- Starlink Standard: Designed for residential use with a Gen 3 router for enhanced connectivity, costing BTN 33,000 (approximately Rs 33,027).
India-Specific Pricing & Challenges
Reports suggest that Starlink’s Indian pricing could range between Rs 5,000 and Rs 7,000 per month, with an initial hardware cost of Rs 20,000 to Rs 38,000. This is significantly higher than what the average broadband user spends in India, where monthly costs typically range from Rs 400 to Rs 600.
For widespread adoption, Starlink may need to develop a more affordable pricing model tailored to India. Collaboration with government-backed digital expansion initiatives could also make the service more accessible to rural users.
However, Starlink faces stiff competition from existing telecom providers like Jio and Airtel. While satellite Internet offers a distinct advantage in connectivity-starved areas, high costs and regulatory hurdles remain major challenges. Whether SpaceX can navigate these obstacles will determine how soon Indian consumers can experience the benefits of Starlink’s satellite-driven Internet revolution.
