It’s Easier Than Ever to Try, Buy, and Return Starlink

After growing so much in just a few short years, Starlink is expanding the ways people can purchase its equipment to connect to its satellite internet service and even try it out for a reduced cost. Starlink kits have been slowly and quietly appearing on the shelves of popular retailers, including Best Buy, Target, and Home Depot. 

Starlink has also rolled out a new version of its trial program in certain states and regions. Customers in these locations can now try out Starlink for one month for $1 and the cost of their preferred plan. You can return the equipment within 30 days for a full refund. All customers in the U.S. can return the dish within 30 days if they are no longer interested, but under this version of the trial, you won’t have to put up the full $599 price tag. 

When it first launched in 2019, the only way to get a Starlink kit was to order from its website. Customers were usually put on a waiting list as SpaceX built out the service through its low-earth orbit constellation of satellites and ground terminals. Now Starlink is widely available and just about anyone can get their hands on a kit—it just needs to be activated in a country that authorizes the service.

Starlink Standard Kits can now be purchased either online or in-store, if available, from select retailers instead of directly from Starlink and install it yourself. Potential customers may consider purchasing from a specific retailer for several different reasons. The most obvious reason is that you can potentially drive to your local store and simply pick a kit up instead of waiting for one to be shipped to you, with shipping times and prices that will vary depending on your location. Plus different retailers come with different perks like membership programs or credit card rewards, depending on your preference. 

Best Buy offers both the Standard and Flat High-Performance kits in certain locations. They also stock several accessories for permanent installation, such as mounting kits and longer cables. However, it's important to note that Best Buy has a two-week return policy unless you’re a member of their Plus or Total programs, which extends it to 60 days. They also offer professional installation for $328.99. It's expensive but handy if you can’t or don’t want to install it yourself.

Target doesn’t carry Starlink in-store, but it offers free shipping, allows customers to pay in installments, and has a 30-day return policy.

Home Depot has the most generous return policy: 90 days. You can return the kit within that period as long as it's undamaged and you keep the receipt.  

When purchasing a Starlink kit from any of these retailers, Starlink advises that you adhere to those retailers’ return policies. You won’t be able to return it to Starlink if it doesn’t fall under their limited warranty. 

Starlink recently introduced a new trial program in certain U.S. states, Australia, and New Zealand. Customers in those regions can use the Standard Starlink Kit for $1 for one month. You will still need to purchase the service plan for $120, and after the first month, you will be charged the total amount of the kit, $599. 

Before the trial period ends and you decide it’s not for you, you can return the kit and be refunded for the first month’s service. You will still need to pay for the return shipping. Starlink doesn’t list which states and regions have the $1 trial program. When ordering Starlink from the website, you’ll have the option for the program if you’re in a qualifying area. If you’re not in a participating region, you’ll still be able to “trial” Starlink but will need to pay the total cost of equipment and service. Here’s more information on returning your Starlink.