Thanks to the Starlink Mini, I Survived a 246-Mile Road Trip With Two Kids
PCMag • • technology
Key Points:
- The author tested the Starlink Mini satellite internet system on a road trip from Idaho to Yellowstone, aiming to maintain connectivity and entertainment for kids in remote areas without cell signal.
- Two rooftop mounts were compared: the Trio Mini Speed Mount, which is sturdy but requires tools to remove, and the SavageUTV Starlink Mini Rooftop Mount, which is more user-friendly with thumb screws and handles for easy installation and removal.
- Powering the Starlink Mini via the car’s 12V port worked while driving but cut off internet during stops, highlighting the importance of an independent power source like a portable battery pack for continuous connectivity.
- The Starlink Mini provided reliable, high-speed internet in motion at highway speeds and in remote, densely forested areas, enabling streaming, work tasks, and entertainment even in Yellowstone where cell service is typically unavailable.
- Key takeaways include prioritizing tool-free mounts for convenience, securing the dish against theft during stops, and recognizing the system's value not only for work but also for keeping passengers entertained on long trips.
