Are you thinking about getting Starlink in Michigan? We offer an expert breakdown of detailed coverage of this service in the state.
Starlink is a fast satellite internet service with the potential for global internet coverage. The network Started its operation in the US and is fast growing.
According to the Federal Communication Commission (FCC), the service was available to almost 97% of Americans as of late May 2023.
The main target of this service is offering stable and reliable internet connection in remote areas where traditional internet services can’t access.
Since Michigan has many extreme rural parts, it has been one of the most targeted states by the Starlink internet service provider.
When Will Starlink be Available in Michigan?
Starlink is already available in Michigan. After the service’s launch, SpaceX started a beta test to prove its worth to users.
The company conducted the first public test along the Northern and the East North Central States bordering Canada, where Michigan is located.
That said, Starlink has been in Michigan since its launch. Nonetheless, only a few parts of the state were selected for the test.
Other parts were put on the Starlink waitlist. After the beta test, most parts remained on the waitlist due to high demand and Starlink’s limited capacity.
With continuous improvement of its coverage, we expect every part of the state to access the full service by the end of this year.
The company promised to hit a target of 42,000 satellites by 2023. If that happens, you can access a stable and reliable internet service anywhere within the state.
Michigan Satellite View
An unusual sighting had Michigan residents turning their eyes to the Sunday night sky.
According to SpaceX and confirmation from the residents, the Starlink satellite moved above Michigan from East to West on Sunday at exactly 7:37 p.m.
Another satellite sighting appeared on Monday at 7:50 p.m.
Several residents sent videos, photos, and messages about a string of light in the sky. SpaceX assured the public that these satellites cause no harm.
A view of Starlink satellites in the night sky
What is the Speed and Latency of Starlink in Michigan?
The speed of your Starlink internet will depend on a number of factors, including the plan you choose and your location.
The company advertises a download speed between 25 Mbps and 220 Mbps
Based on our research, a typical Starlink speed in Michigan ranges from 45 Mbps to 150 Mbps download speed.
The upload speed is between 10 Mbps – 20 Mbps. This is impressive compared to most states.
Business users enjoy a higher internet speed than residential. Roam users experience a lower speed than the other packages.
The Starlink latency in this state is equally impressive, averaging between 50 ms and 70 ms, as reported by most subscribers.
This latency is too low compared to what you will get from other satellite service providers. Starlink has lower latency due to the satellite’s placement in low earth orbit.
Starlink internet satellite train around the Earth
Here is the summary of the Starlink internet speed and latency.
| Starlink Roam | Starlink Business | Starlink Residential | |
| Av. Download Speed | 52 Mbps | 220 Mbps | 100 Mbps |
| Av. Upload Speed | 4 Mbps | 22 Mbps | 15 Mbps |
| Latency | 72 ms | 64 ms | 60 ms |
| Average Reliability | 97.4% | 98.7% | 97.2% |
How Much is Starlink in Michigan?
Starlink’s cost also depends on several factors, including the plan and the location.
In Michigan, like in most places, the cost of purchasing Starlink hardware for residential and roam is $599.
After installation, you must pay a monthly subscription of $110 if you are a Starlink residential user. Roam subscribers will pay $135 monthly charges.
For Business and Maritime packages, you must dig a little deeper into your pocket. You will spend up to $2,500 for hardware alone.
The monthly charges for a business plan are $500, while that of Maritime starts at $250.
It is needless to say, Starlink may not be the cheapest satellite internet provider you can find in Michigan.
However, this service is worth the money given its unmatched speed and reliability.
How Long Does Starlink Take to Ship in Michigan?
Michigan is one of the states that first got Starlink service, and since its introduction, shipping has been fast.
You will only wait 2 weeks to have the kit shipped. Something good about the shipping process is that you do not have to be in the darkness.
You can always log onto your Starlink account and track the progress of your order.
Starlink Michigan Alternatives
Like any other internet service, Starlink has both advantages and drawbacks. While it offers great speed and reliability, it is expensive, and many people find it unaffordable.
However, there are alternatives, some of which can perform better but are more affordable.
While at it, it is important to note that some of these options may not be available at all addresses in Michigan.
You can try the following alternatives if they are available at your address.
- T-Mobile 5G Home Internet (5G Wireless)
- Verizon 5G Home Internet (5G Wireless)
- Legacy satellites, including Viasat and Hughesnet
Final Thought
Michigan is among the states to first enjoy Starlink internet service. Though some parts of the state may be on the waitlist, most are now fully covered.
Since its launch, the service has revamped internet accessibility within the state. You can access it even in the remote areas of Michigan at a great speed.
Its relatively higher price may force you to seek alternatives. The best alternative is T-mobile 5G Home Internet, available in some parts of the state.
Legacy satellites, Hughesnet and Viasat, are also great alternatives, but you should consider them your last resort.