Starlink Price in Kenya

Starlink Price in Kenya – What It Costs to Get Online Anywhere

Starlink in Kenya has sparked curiosity about the costs involved in getting online via satellite. The primary expense is the hardware kit, which includes the dish, modem, and router. Prices can vary depending on whether you opt for the Standard kit, Mini kit, or High Performance dish, with the HP model being more costly upfront. This initial investment is a one-time fee, setting the stage for reliable internet access even in remote regions.

Beyond hardware, monthly subscription plans determine your recurring cost. These plans differ based on data usage, speed tiers, and sometimes include weather-proofing add-ons or priority support. While the standard plan covers most everyday needs—like browsing, streaming, and video calls—higher-tier subscriptions offer increased bandwidth and lower latency, which can benefit businesses or power users. Understanding your usage pattern is crucial to selecting the right plan without overpaying.

Finally, there may be optional installation or delivery charges, depending on your location in Kenya. Urban users near major logistics hubs may benefit from lower delivery costs, while those in remote areas might incur additional fees for transport or professional setup. Cumulatively, the total cost to get online with Starlink in Kenya includes hardware, monthly service, and any extra charges—so budgeting for each component ensures a smooth and predictable online experience.

1. Starlink Hardware Costs

Before enjoying fast, low-latency internet through Starlink, it’s important to understand the cost of hardware options available in Kenya. Starlink offers several types of kits—each designed for specific environments, user needs, and connectivity requirements. Whether you’re a homeowner, a digital nomad, a business owner, or running a mission-critical operation, there’s a Starlink solution for you. Below is a detailed breakdown of the available kits and their respective price ranges in Kenya (inclusive of estimated import duties and reseller margins).

1.1 Standard Kit

Ideal for home users, SMEs, and rural connectivity solutions.

• General Use: The Standard Kit is Starlink’s most common option and is perfect for residential households, small offices, home-based businesses, and rural homesteads. It comes with a motorized dish, Wi-Fi router, power adapter, and mounting base.

• Performance: Delivers typical download speeds of 50–200 Mbps, with 20–40 ms latency under clear conditions. It supports multiple devices and is sufficient for streaming, video calls, online classes, and remote work.

• Cost in Kenya: Prices range from KES 60,000 to 120,000, depending on supplier, location, and whether you purchase from an accredited installer or independent reseller. Some sellers may include extras like mounting poles or cables in the higher price range.

1.2 Mini Kit

Compact and portable for on-the-go internet or minimal setups.

• Portability: The Starlink Mini Kit is designed for travelers, remote workers, and users in need of internet on the move. It’s lighter, smaller, and easier to deploy—ideal for caravans, camping, or temporary off-grid setups.

• Setup Simplicity: The Mini version features a simplified mounting system and can even run off portable power stations, making it ideal for field researchers, journalists, or eco-lodges.

• Performance: Offers moderate bandwidth, generally lower than the Standard Kit, but stable enough for basic browsing, emails, streaming, and VOIP in remote areas.

• Cost in Kenya: Typically slightly lower than the Standard Kit, ranging from KES 55,000 to 95,000, depending on accessories and delivery location.

1.3 High Performance (HP) Kit

Heavy-duty solution for business, industrial use, or harsh environments.

• Durability & Design: The High Performance kit is engineered with a more rugged dish that can withstand extreme weather (wind, heat, snow), making it ideal for corporate sites, rural hubs, farms, and large residential compounds.

• Faster Throughput: Compared to the Standard Kit, HP units offer better thermal handling, stronger connectivity in high-demand areas, and higher bandwidth consistency even during peak hours.

• Use Cases: Suitable for small ISPs, high-traffic offices, mission-critical facilities like hospitals, or surveillance/remote monitoring systems.

• Cost in Kenya: Due to its specialized hardware and import size, the price ranges from KES 185,000 to 220,000. This often includes reinforced mounts and business-grade routers, depending on the supplier.

1.4 Flat High Performance (Flat HP) Kit

Built for mobility, vehicle mounting, and maritime/aviation use.

• Form Factor: The Flat HP dish is designed to be mounted flush on vehicles, boats, buses, or aircraft. Unlike the motorized dishes, it remains in a fixed position and electronically steers its beam to stay connected.

• Mobility & In-Motion Use: This kit is perfect for use while the vehicle is in motion—ideal for tour vans, emergency vehicles, event buses, and high-speed mobile command units.

• Connectivity On the Go: It delivers consistent performance while in transit, unlike the standard or HP kits, which are designed to stay stationary.

• Cost in Kenya: Due to its advanced features and niche applications, it is the most expensive Starlink hardware on the market, priced between KES 270,000 and 350,000. This pricing includes the premium dish, power units, mounting hardware, and often requires professional installation.

1.5 Enterprise Kit

Large-capacity solution for corporate campuses, government offices, and multi-user environments.

• Scalability & Redundancy: Designed for backup internet, multi-user environments, or bridging connectivity gaps at critical locations. Often deployed at bank branches, universities, embassies, or data centers.

• High User Load: The Enterprise Kit supports a much larger number of simultaneous users than other kits. It can also be paired with SD-WAN or failover systems for network redundancy.

• Custom Installation: Often requires a site survey, advanced network configuration, and integration with existing infrastructure (VPNs, firewalls, access control).

• Cost in Kenya: Pricing ranges from KES 150,000 to 200,000, depending on the size of the deployment, backup systems, and network architecture. Some suppliers offer enterprise bundles that include support and monitoring services.

Starlink hardware pricing in Kenya varies widely depending on the type of kit, performance needs, and installation complexity. For most users, the Standard or Mini Kits offer excellent value and performance for typical use. For businesses, mobility use, or mission-critical operations, the High Performance, Flat HP, or Enterprise Kits provide more robust and scalable options. It’s advisable to consult with a certified Starlink installer or authorized reseller to determine the best solution based on your budget, location, and internet usage needs.

2. Monthly Subscription Plans in Kenya

Starlink offers a variety of subscription packages in Kenya tailored to suit different types of users—from light residential users in rural homes to high-bandwidth business operations and travelers who need connectivity on the go. Understanding each package helps you pick the most cost-effective plan for your specific needs. Below is a detailed look at the main categories—Residential, Business, and Roaming—along with what’s included in each.

2.1 Residential Plans

Best for home users, remote workers, and small families.

These packages are designed for users who need stable home internet for everyday tasks like browsing, Zoom calls, social media, streaming, and smart home devices.

• Light Plan (50 GB) – KES 1,300/month

  • Ideal for casual users with low to moderate internet needs.

  • Best suited for checking emails, social media, occasional YouTube streaming, or remote work with minimal data usage.

  • After 50 GB, you’ll experience throttled speeds or need to top up, depending on current policies.

• Unlimited 1 Plan – KES 4,000/month

  • Perfect for average households using multiple devices for streaming, gaming, and remote work.

  • Offers unlimited data with a fair usage policy that may prioritize network access during congestion based on usage volume.

  • Great value for typical family or rural home internet use.

• Unlimited 2 Plan – KES 6,500/month

  • Suitable for heavy users or larger households with high-definition streaming, online schooling, gaming, or CCTV monitoring.

  • Includes unlimited data with higher bandwidth thresholds before potential deprioritization.

  • Preferred by digital workers or homes in areas with multiple users and smart devices.

2.2 Business Plans

Ideal for offices, ISPs, large properties, or mission-critical environments.

Business plans come with a combination of Priority Data (guaranteed performance) and Standard Data (shared bandwidth). These plans provide reliable connectivity during peak hours and are optimized for critical applications like Zoom, cloud computing, and VPNs.

• 40 GB Priority + Unlimited Standard Data – KES 8,000/month

  • Offers 40 GB of high-speed, prioritized traffic—ideal for key tasks or peak-hour performance.

  • Once Priority Data is used up, the system shifts to unlimited Standard Data (slightly lower performance).

  • Suitable for small offices or professional users who need occasional premium speed.

• 1 TB Priority Data + Unlimited Standard Data – KES 13,572/month

  • Designed for mid-sized businesses, rural ISPs, surveillance hubs, or frequent video conferencing users.

  • Ensures consistent high performance for up to 1TB of data, after which usage continues at standard rates.

  • Highly reliable and popular with government offices, banks, and remote healthcare facilities.

• 2 TB Priority Data + Unlimited Standard Data – KES 27,144/month

  • Built for enterprises, schools, tech hubs, or remote operations requiring stable, high-speed bandwidth.

  • The 2TB of Priority Data is great for always-on environments or high traffic LANs.

  • Unlimited backup ensures you never lose connectivity even when the cap is exceeded.

2.3 Roaming Plans

Perfect for users constantly on the move—across Kenya, the region, or globally.

These plans allow you to use Starlink while travelling, whether you’re on land, at sea, or in multiple countries.

• Mobile (Regional) – KES 14,000/month

  • Enables use while traveling within Africa or designated regional countries.

  • Ideal for aid workers, mobile clinics, journalists, and tour operators who move from one country to another.

  • Provides coverage across multiple territories but not at sea or globally.

• Mobile (Global) – KES 32,800/month

  • Offers true global mobility, allowing you to use Starlink in almost any country where the service is available.

  • Suitable for ships, global NGOs, disaster response teams, and international expeditions.

  • Consistent global speeds, regardless of location (terms may apply in some countries).

• Mobile Priority – Land and Sea (50 GB) – KES 34,910/month

  • Includes 50 GB of priority bandwidth, which is ideal for marine use, RVs, or overland safari operations.

  • Once Priority Data is used, you can continue with reduced performance under standard usage.

  • Offers the highest-tier mobile support with priority traffic even while in motion or offshore.

Starlink’s monthly subscription plans in Kenya are designed to cater to a wide range of users—from budget-conscious home users to global business travelers and large-scale enterprises. Whether you’re looking for basic access or enterprise-level bandwidth, there’s a plan that fits your data needs and mobility requirements. Choosing the right plan ensures you get the best value, speed, and reliability for your unique use case.

3. Installation & Service Extras

While Starlink is designed to be plug-and-play, many users in Kenya prefer or require professional installation and value-added services to optimize performance and protect their equipment. Whether you’re in an urban apartment, a rural homestead, or a business compound, Starlink setup may involve extra components and professional services to ensure stability, safety, and long-term reliability. Below is a breakdown of the most common installation and service extras, along with typical price ranges in Kenya.

3.1 Professional Installation Fees

Skilled setup for rooftop, wall, or elevated installations.

• Flat Base Installs (KES 10,000 – 20,000):
  Ideal for homes or buildings with accessible flat rooftops. Technicians secure the dish using Starlink’s stock base or a reinforced platform. The cost covers transport, labor, cable routing, and basic configuration using the app.
  This option is best when there are no signal obstructions, and the roof is strong enough to anchor the hardware safely.

• Pole or Wall Installations (KES 8,000 – 12,000):
  Common in areas with trees or where elevation is needed to avoid signal blockage. Technicians install a custom or off-the-shelf pole mount on walls, chimneys, or extended supports. This provides better line of sight to the sky but requires drilling, anchoring, and more cable work.
  Costs vary depending on building material, wall height, and whether the mounting pole is included or supplied separately.

Note: Accredited installers often include initial app setup, signal testing, and guidance on router placement within these fees.

3.2 Power Systems & Grounding

Power safety and backup solutions for rural or unstable power zones.

• Surge Protectors (KES 5,000 – 8,000):
  Starlink devices are sensitive to voltage spikes. A quality surge protector helps shield your dish and router from Kenya Power fluctuations, lightning surges, or generator irregularities.
  Especially recommended for regions prone to storms or unreliable grids.

• Inverters or Mini UPS Systems (KES 10,000 – 15,000):
  If your location experiences frequent blackouts, adding a backup power source ensures uninterrupted connectivity.
  A typical inverter or portable UPS system can keep your Starlink running for 2–6 hours, making it ideal for businesses or students needing steady internet during outages.

• Earthing & Grounding Services (Add-on):
  Grounding the metal parts of the dish and mounting pole protects against lightning strikes and electrical surges. This is often bundled with installation in high-risk areas (especially rural setups).

3.3 Mounting Hardware

Customized supports for optimal placement and wind resistance.

• Wall Brackets (KES 10,000 – 15,000):
  Strong metal arms that anchor the dish to vertical surfaces. Ideal for homes without flat rooftops or where access to the roof is restricted. These brackets come in various lengths to allow distance from the wall for proper alignment. Mounting hardware

• Pole Kits (KES 15,000 – 30,000):
  Galvanized steel poles of various heights (1.5m – 4m) designed for elevated installation. Includes clamps, U-bolts, and concrete or rooftop bases.
  Pole kits are necessary when local terrain or tall structures block signal at lower heights.

• Tripod or Non-Penetrating Mounts (KES 30,000 – 50,000):
  Heavy-duty, freestanding mounts for non-permanent setups. Best for rented properties, container offices, or temporary installations. Some models allow dish relocation without leaving holes in walls or roofs.
  Premium tripod kits are often used by events teams, tour operators, and mobile clinics.

• Important: Prices vary by brand, build quality, and reseller. It’s recommended to get hardware rated for wind resistance and outdoor exposure.

While the Starlink kit includes the basics needed to get online, professional installation and custom mounting or power solutions greatly improve performance, safety, and longevity—especially in challenging terrains across Kenya. Investing in quality surge protection, elevation tools, or backup power ensures that your Starlink system works reliably under all conditions. For the best results, consider working with certified installers who understand local conditions and offer after-sale support.

4. Total Cost Example by Kit Type

Investing in Starlink involves a mix of one-time hardware and installation fees, plus recurring monthly service charges. The total cost will vary depending on the kit type you choose, your location, and your internet needs (e.g., speed, stability, mobility). Below is a realistic cost breakdown for common kit types available in Kenya, giving you clarity on what to expect when budgeting.

4.1 Standard Kit

Ideal for homes, small offices, and farms needing reliable rural internet.

• Hardware Cost: KES 60,000
  This includes the motorized dish, Wi-Fi router, cables, and power adapter. Some vendors may also bundle basic mounts or cables. Standard kit

• Installation Cost: KES 10,000
  Covers rooftop or wall mount labor, cable routing, app setup, and signal testing.

• Monthly Fee: KES 6,500 (Unlimited 2 Plan)
  Best suited for households with high data use—HD streaming, Zoom calls, and smart home devices.

• Total Upfront (Hardware + Install): KES 70,000
  Plus a recurring KES 6,500 per month.

4.2 Mini Kit

Designed for travelers, NGOs, or compact setups in mobile or off-grid areas.

• Hardware Cost: KES 30,000
  Lightweight and portable with similar functionality to the Standard Kit, but with a smaller dish and slightly lower speeds. Mini kit

• Installation Cost: KES 10,000
  Still requires mounting or mobile positioning assistance in most cases.

• Monthly Fee: KES 4,000 (Unlimited 1 Plan)
  Great for moderate use—email, YouTube, browsing, and VOIP in remote areas.

• Total Upfront: KES 40,000
  Plus a recurring KES 4,000 per month.

4.3 High Performance (HP) Kit

Built for demanding users, institutions, or harsh environments.

• Hardware Cost: KES 200,000
  Ruggedized, larger dish for better throughput, thermal resistance, and uptime stability. High performance flat kit

• Installation Cost: KES 20,000
  Typically requires a custom mount, pole, and expert alignment due to size and weight.

• Monthly Fee: KES 8,000 (Business Plan – 40GB Priority + Unlimited)
  Offers prioritized bandwidth for offices or networked setups.

• Total Upfront: KES 220,000
  Plus a recurring KES 8,000 per month.

4.4 Enterprise Kit

Designed for large-scale usage like company branches, learning institutions, or backup connections.

• Hardware Cost: KES 150,000
  Supports higher user loads, professional network integration, and advanced failover configurations.

• Installation Cost: KES 20,000
  Includes structural mounting, cable management, and power conditioning.

• Monthly Fee: KES 8,000 (Business Plan – 40GB Priority + Unlimited)
  Prioritized data ensures smooth performance during mission-critical sessions.

• Total Upfront: KES 170,000
  Plus a recurring KES 8,000 per month.

4.5 Flat High Performance (Flat HP) Kit

Best for mobile applications—vehicle-mounted, marine, or remote fieldwork.

• Hardware Cost: KES 350,000
  Flat, electronically-steered dish that connects even while in motion. Starlink flat high performance kit

• Installation Cost: KES 30,000
  Specialized mounts and cabling for vans, ships, or field trailers.

• Monthly Fee: KES 14,000 (Roaming/Mobile Plan)
  Enables connectivity anywhere in Kenya and beyond (regional/global plans available).

• Total Upfront: KES 380,000
  Plus a recurring KES 14,000 per month.

Summary Comparison Table

Starlink costs in Kenya vary widely based on your kit selection and installation needs. For basic home use, the Standard or Mini Kits offer great value. For businesses or mobility-focused users, the High Performance and Flat HP Kits provide premium connectivity—at a higher upfront investment. Factoring both setup and ongoing fees ensures you plan realistically and get the performance you’re paying for.

5. How Starlink Compares to Other ISPs in Kenya

Starlink has introduced a revolutionary alternative to traditional internet providers in Kenya, especially in remote and underserved areas. But how does it stack up against conventional options like fiber or mobile internet? Below is a point-by-point comparison that highlights key differences in cost, coverage, performance, and suitability for various use cases.

5.1 Starlink vs. Fiber Broadband

Ideal for urban users, offices, and high-density buildings — but with limitations.

• Installation Costs: Fiber optic installations typically cost between KES 20,000 to KES 100,000, depending on proximity to existing infrastructure. In high-rise apartments or new buildings, costs may be reduced through bundled tenant agreements, but in newly developed suburbs, trenching and routing may drive costs higher.

• Monthly Costs: Most fiber packages from major ISPs like Zuku, Safaricom Home, and JTL Faiba average between KES 3,000 – 6,000/month, offering speeds from 10 Mbps up to 100 Mbps. Higher enterprise packages exceed KES 10,000.

• Performance: Fiber broadband offers very low latency and high-speed symmetric connections, making it great for video conferencing, gaming, and cloud-based services.

• Limitations: Despite great performance in cities and towns, fiber is not available in most rural or peri-urban parts of Kenya due to the infrastructure cost. This makes it inaccessible for farms, lodges, remote schools, or homes outside network coverage zones.

Summary: Fiber is fast and affordable where available, but Starlink wins in areas where fiber lines don’t reach or installation is prohibitively expensive.

5.2 Starlink vs. Mobile 4G/5G Internet

Ubiquitous in towns and cities but weak in rural and bandwidth-heavy environments.

• Upfront Costs: 4G routers or USB modems from providers like Airtel, Safaricom, and Telkom cost between KES 2,500 – 12,000. Bundled mobile data SIM cards and prepaid modems are affordable and portable.

• Monthly Costs: Data bundles range from KES 250 to 5,000, but are often capped (e.g., 25GB, 50GB). Once exhausted, speeds drop dramatically or require costly top-ups. Postpaid 4G home plans are available but still limited in data compared to Starlink’s unlimited options.

• Performance: While 4G/5G works well in urban zones, it becomes unreliable in low-signal regions and during peak hours. Latency can spike, and network congestion is common.

• Limitations: Not suitable for large households, live streamers, gamers, or small businesses that rely on stable, high-throughput internet. Most rural areas still lack robust mobile tower infrastructure, and 5G is limited to select parts of Nairobi and Mombasa.

Summary: Mobile internet is cheap and convenient, but Starlink provides better performance, reliability, and unlimited usage, especially for heavy users or off-grid locations.

5.3 Value for Remote and Underserved Areas

This is where Starlink truly shines.

• Universal Coverage: Unlike fiber or mobile networks, Starlink’s satellite network delivers internet directly from space, making it usable virtually anywhere with a clear view of the sky. It covers even the most isolated parts of Kenya—whether in Samburu, Tsavo, Lodwar, or deep in the Aberdares.

• Consistent Speeds: Starlink users in remote areas often enjoy better speeds than urban users relying on congested mobile towers or unreliable 3G networks. Bandwidth remains consistent, and latency remains acceptable for Zoom, Teams, Netflix, and online education.

• Empowering Connectivity: Starlink is already empowering rural schools, health centers, NGO field offices, safari lodges, and remote farms with internet that was previously unavailable or unusably slow. It also enables hybrid working and virtual schooling for remote families.

• Setup Flexibility: With portable kits like the Mini and Flat HP, users in tents, RVs, or mobile clinics can carry high-speed internet wherever they go—something no other ISP in Kenya currently matches.

Summary: In remote and underserved locations, Starlink offers unbeatable value, bridging the digital divide and connecting the unconnected with high-speed, stable internet.

Which Option Is Best for You?