About Nomad vs Starlink: If you are a ritualistic internet user living in a rural area, you must seek a reliable yet affordable internet service.
Two major ISPs to consider are Nomad, an established authorized internet reseller, and Starlink, a satellite internet provider.
While they both have the same mission, they have different modes of operation.
In today’s review, we will comprehensively compare Nomad vs Starlink to help you choose the best Internet for your requirements.
Nomad vs Starlink: Definition
Nomad Internet leverages the services of Verizon to provide 4G LTE and 5G cellular internet across the 50 states in the US.
The company started its services in 2017 to offer rural communities the same speedy internet found in urban areas.
Currently, Nomad has provided reliable and secure internet to travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and other underserved communities.
On the other hand, Starlink is a satellite-based ISP owned and operated by SpaceX and started its services in 2019.
The company’s main goal is to provide reliable internet in remote areas where other services don’t exist.
With this quest, Starlink has launched over 4,000 satellites to ensure it’s available globally.
5G network concept
Nomad vs Starlink: Comparison
Now let’s compare several aspects of nomad and Starlink internet to get a clearer picture of which is best:
Technology
Typically, Nomad Internet is an authorized reseller of the largest network services in the US rather than a primary ISP.
For this reason, the company utilizes modems to tap into the services of providers such as Verizon.
As a customer, you buy one of these modems depending on your plan, making your premises a hotspot.
Hence, you can get 4G LTE or 5G internet even camping in the bushes.
In contrast, Starlink uses LEO satellites to provide its services globally.
These satellites are placed just 550 Km from the Earth services, which ensures faster internet than other satellite ISPs such as HughesNet.
Then, the company places ground stations strategically to ensure proper communication with the satellite.
Being a Starlink customer, you install a phased array technology antennae on your premises, which connects to a Starlink router.
Hardware
To use the Nomad internet, you will require any of the following devices. First, you will need the Nomad cube, a specialized modem ideal for travelers or indoor users.
Alternatively, you may need the modern Nomaid Air to use outdoors and in motion.
Lastly, if you need Nomad Internet for business, your device is the Nomad Raptor, which features several LAN ports.
Each device has a modem, power supply and cable, and an ethernet cable.
On the other hand, using the Starlink internet requires a Stalink kit, which ships to your address after ordering.
This kit includes a rectangular dish, which you mount on an elevated place, and a router, which you put in your house.
Other Starlink accessories in the kit include a stand for mounting the dish and an ethernet cable and power supply.
Starlink dish
Availability
Since Nomad Internet leverages the services of the major internet supplies in the US, it is available in all 50 states.
You just need to buy the Nomad device and use it anywhere. However, being a wireless service, you can expect weather interference.
In contrast, Starlink is available in 60 countries, which includes the US, Canada, and some African, Asian, and European countries.
However, it may be at full capacity in some regions, which may put your order on the waitlist.
Speed and latency
Typically, Nomad internet does not guarantee any speed or latency. Its performance varies from location to location depending on the major service it leverages.
For example, its speed can go up to 150 Mbps if it uses Viasta in your locality or as low as 25 Mbps if Hughesnet is in use.
Therefore, I recommend testing it in your location to know if you are getting a reliable speed.
The good news is that the company offers a 7-day money guarantee if you are unsatisfied with the service.
Conversely, Starlink has a predefined speed of 25 to 220 Mbps for downloads and 10 to 25 Mbps for uploads.
Its latency is 20 to 40 ms, ideal for light gaming requirements. However, this performance depends on the weather and time of the day, among other factors.
Starlink return policy also offers a testing period of 30 days in which you can get your money back.
Internet speed concept
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons | |
| Nomad | No contacts No data caps Affordable monthly cost Excellent for travelers Good for rural areas | Available in the US only. Reliability depends on your location. Expensive initial setup Affected by weather |
| Starlink | Performance depends on the weather. Very expensive and not suitable for travelers. | Performance depends on the weather. Very expensive, Not suitable for travelers. |
Plans and Price
Generally, Nomad has three plans to suit different customer needs. Its first plan is the nomad residential plan, with an activation fee of $399 plus a $109 monthly subscription.
Another plan is the Nomad air travel, which goes for $599 and $$129 per month.
Lastly, you can also get the Nomad unlimited power plan for $799 and $199 monthly.
The good thing is that all plans have no contacts, data caps, throttling, or installation fees.
However, you may have to pay about $200 if you lose your device or fail to return it when you terminate the service.
In comparison, Starlink has about five plans for different users. Its most common plan is residential, which costs $599 for equipment and a $120 monthly fee.
The other plan is the roam or RV plan with the same equipment cost as the residential but $135 per month.
There is also the business plan, which goes for a $2500 equipment fee plus $500 per month.
Other plans are Starlink Aviation and Marine, which have more expensive equipment and monthly fees than the above plans.
Customer care
Nomad Internet offers excellent and responsive 24/7 customer service.
You can contact them on their web chat, email, or phone number and get a prompt response.
In contracts, Starlink does not have an email or number to contact their customer care. You must use their app or the website to raise a support ticket.
Which One Should You Choose For Your Needs
If you are a person who travels more, then Nomad is the best service due to its usage of on-the-go capabilities.
However, if you need an internet service with reliable speed and latency, I recommend Starlink.
Conclusion
According to the above research, Nomad Internet suits rural dwellers who travel frequently. But Starlink edges it regarding reliability, several plans, global availability, and many features.