Starlink Mini vs Standard: Which Is Best for You?
- Matt Zefi
- Aug 26, 2025
- 3 min read
If you’ve been trying to decide between the Starlink Mini and the Starlink Standard Gen 3, you’re not alone. Whether you’re an RVer, overlander, cabin dweller, or just someone living off-grid without reliable internet, choosing the right Starlink setup can be tricky. After using both, I want to break down the real differences in size, portability, power consumption, speed, and cost to help you figure out which dish is right for you.
Size and Portability
The size difference is immediately clear. The Starlink Mini is shockingly compact—you can slip it into a backpack, even alongside a laptop. I was able to fit it in my Filson Journeyman without an issue, which says a lot about its portability. On the other hand, the Starlink Standard Gen 3 dish is two to three times larger and much heavier. While it’s still “portable” in the sense that you can move it around, it’s clunky and not something you’ll casually throw into a pack. Because of this, the Standard Gen 3 is better suited for fixed setups, like an RV or an off-grid cabin, while the Mini shines for mobility.
Router Differences
One of the biggest design differences comes with the routers. The Starlink Mini has a built-in Wi-Fi 5 router, which keeps the system compact and simple to set up with just a DC plug. The Standard Gen 3, however, comes with a separate Wi-Fi 6 router, which offers better performance overall. The wiring is a bit more involved since the router and dish are separate, but the payoff is a stronger router with more capability.
Power Consumption
This category might be the single most important factor if you’re off-grid. The Starlink Mini uses only about 20 watts on average, while the Standard Gen 3 pulls around 80 watts. That’s nearly four times the draw. If you’re running solar or a small power bank, this difference is huge. The Mini can even run via USB-C with the right adapter, making it possible to plug into a portable power bank and run for hours. The Standard Gen 3, by comparison, can easily drain a 100W solar panel setup if you’re not careful.
Speed Performance
When it comes to speed, the Standard Gen 3 has the edge, especially in download speeds. In my tests, the Standard consistently performed about 20–30% faster than the Mini on downloads, although uploads were much closer between the two. Latency also varies, but the Standard generally comes in lower. The built-in Wi-Fi 6 router helps here, but you can close the gap on either system by hardwiring with Ethernet. Still, if raw speed is your priority, the Standard Gen 3 usually wins.
Cost Differences
Here’s where things get interesting. The Starlink Standard Gen 3 is cheaper despite being bigger and faster. You’ll usually see it around $500 (sometimes as low as $400), while the Mini runs closer to $600. That means you’re essentially paying more for compact size and portability with the Mini, not performance. On top of that, the Standard Gen 3 is eligible for the residential Starlink plan, which isn’t currently available for the Mini in the U.S.
Plans and Service Options
Both the Mini and the Standard can be used on Roam plans, which are deprioritized compared to residential. That means in congested areas, residential users get faster speeds. Right now, the Roam Unlimited plan is $165/month, while residential service is $120/month, a $45 savings. With the Standard Gen 3, you can also change your service address if you’re traveling or camping for an extended time. That flexibility, plus the lower monthly cost, makes the Standard a better fit for stationary or semi-stationary users.
Which One Should You Buy?
If portability, low power draw, and compact size are your top priorities, the Starlink Mini is the clear choice. It’s perfect for RVers, overlanders, and anyone who needs lightweight, easy internet on the go.
But if you want faster speeds, lower equipment cost, the option for residential service, and don’t mind the larger size or higher power draw, the Starlink Standard Gen 3 is the better value overall.
So, are you team Starlink Mini or Standard Gen 3? Let me know your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
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