Starlink Rental: Is Renting Starlink Worth It?

About Starlink Rental. Are you running low on funds but still want to subscribe to Starlink Internet? 

Worry not, as you don’t have to spend the full $599 Starlink kit fee thanks to the rental option. 

Starlink has a provision for subscribers who want to use the internet in the short term. 

It’s also a perfect choice for customers trialing the internet service before taking it up. But what are the underlying Starlink Rental terms? 

We’ll look at everything about it in detail. 

How Does Starlink Rental Work?

Starlink rental is an option for subscribers who want to skip paying the kit fees. 

A subscriber on rental terms will pay a $39 activation fee to initiate the partnership. Next, they’ll pay the following:

  • $15 kit monthly rental charge,
  • $75 monthly service fee. 

However, note that the Starlink rental option is only valid in some locations. So, you must first confirm if your zone is one of those eligible for the service. 

Your contract runs only when you use the internet service so that you can terminate it anytime. The activation fee is also refundable within 30 days after contract termination. 

Starlink requires you to take care of the hardware kit during your lease period. Hence, you’ll have to pay the company if there’s any significant damage to it during damage. 

Benefits of Renting Starlink

Starlink Satellites. 

Starlink Satellites. 

What are the advantages of renting Starlink over paying the full installation fees? Here are a few below: 

It is Cheap

Starlink rental is the ideal go-to option for subscribers on a lean budget. It is cheaper than paying for the full Starlink Residential kit for $599. 

You just pay the service fee, rental charges, and the one-time activation fee, which is refundable. 

It is Easy to Upgrade

Renting is a viable option for those looking to test the service before investing in it in the long run. Also, upgrading it is not manual but automatic, making it an excellent investment. 

Low Maintenance

Maintaining Starlink rental is pretty easy, as there’s nothing you need to do. Once everything is set up, all that is left is to use the internet without requiring a professional helping hand. 

Even the setup is all by yourself, thanks to the self-installation feature of Starlink service. 

The Starlink app also eases everything by ensuring you can perform tasks such as melting snow and stowing from it. 

Great Internet Option

Starlink is undoubtedly one of the best internet services, especially for people in marginal areas such as deserts. 

Therefore, the Starlink rental option can be crucial for campers looking to use the internet in remote locations. 

How to Be Eligible for Starlink Rent Option 

Most of Europe is Eligible for Starlink Rent. 

Most of Europe is Eligible for Starlink Rent. 

Note that the Starlink rental option is only available in some places. The Starlink Rental option is available in most European countries. Hence, if you’re in the following nations, consider taking up the service: 

  • Spain
  • Denmark
  • Austria
  • Italy
  • United Kingdom
  • Germany
  • Finland
  • Bulgaria
  • Isle of Man
  • Latvia
  • Macedonia
  • Bulgaria
  • Luxembourg
  • Portugal
  • Norway
  • Sweden
  • Ireland 
  • Malta
  • Netherlands 
  • Slovenia
  • Greece
  • Latvia
  • Guernsey
  • Switzerland  

Starlink rental is also available to New Zealand residential customers. 

If you’re in the UK, US, Australia, or Canada, you can also rent Starlink as a business subscriber. 

This option is only available in these limited countries. 

Starlink Rental Process

Starlink Satellites in LEO. 

Starlink Satellites in LEO. 

Therefore, if you’re considering it, check if it’s available in your area. Below is the Starlink rent process: 

  • First, subscribe to the internet and pay the one-time activation fee. Note that you can recoup this money if you terminate your Starlink contract. 
  • Next, Starlink will deliver the kit to your destination, and once the package arrives, you’ll be billed the rental charges. Until now, Starlink has not yet billed the monthly fees. 
  • Next, you’ll need to connect the Starlink kit and start using the WiFi. Ensure you choose a perfect location where there are minimal obstructions. At this juncture, Starlink will bill you the monthly fee. 
  • If you want to terminate your Starlink contract, simply do it from the official Starlink app. Next, you’ll return the kit and, most importantly, ensure it is in good shape to prevent attracting penalties. 

How You Rent Starlink Equipment

Starlink Dish. 

Starlink Dish. 

If you’re looking to rent Starlink, there are two main options:

Official Starlink Rental Program

Previously, Starlink didn’t have a rental program until it became apparent that subscribers were renting out kits to one another. 

It prompted the company to introduce the rental option, which works well and costs just a measly $90 monthly. 

It includes the $15 monthly fee and $75 internet access fee. All you need to do is visit Starlink’s official website, check for eligibility, and choose the rent option. 

Renting from 3rd Party Agents

If the rental option is unavailable in your area and you still need to rent the kit, consider checking out third-party agents. 

They are a great option as they are flexible and plenty, so you’re spoilt for choice on the one to use. Here are the top three Starlink rental options: 

Starlink Kit Rental AgentTerms of Service
SatellitePhoneStore.comIt is a rental service company specializing in all satellite equipment and accessories. The weekly rental fees are quite high at $308.99. It is the charge for the standard kit, but they also offer other types. The service requires no initial deposit. Nonetheless, subscribers need to pay the kit return fee. 
BorrowStarlink.comIt is a Utah-based company renting out Starlink kits to US residents. The company leases all Starlink equipment, including ethernet adapters, the official Starlink kit, and portable batteries. 
Rental rates are also quite high, with a daily charge of $30, which can soar depending on demand. You need to make a $350 deposit to shoulder the probable damages to the kit. 
Renting from Private IndividualsThere are marketing platforms like Facebook Marketplace where people rent out their Starlink kit. They are cheap, especially when renting from an individual near your location, as you save on shipping costs. 

What to Consider When Leasing and Returning Hardware

Consider if Buying a Starlink Kit is cheaper than Renting. 

Consider if Buying a Starlink Kit is cheaper than Renting. 

Renting Starlink hardware from the official store is straightforward, as the terms are clear. 

But dealing with a third party can get complicated, so you need to be extra careful. Here are tips on the things you need to keep in check.  

  • Check all the fees involved in the renting/hardware shipping process. Usually, most third parties will require you to pay a rental fee and shoulder the shipping and return costs. 
  • Ship the kit to arrive earlier than the day you need to use it to avoid logistical inconveniences. 
  • Beware of scammers, especially when renting Starlink from platforms like Facebook Marketplace or individuals. Make sure you have received the kit before making a huge payment. 
  • Read and understand the damage policy of the leasing agent. 
  • Do a cost-benefit analysis between buying and renting. If you’re an avid Starlink user, buying rather than renting the kit makes more sense. 
  • Ensure you have a working power source, especially if you use Starlink away from home. If the provided power bank/battery fails, it’ll ensure you’re not stranded. 

Can you Rent out Your Own Starlink?

It’s illegal to rent out your Starlink Kit. 

It’s illegal to rent out your Starlink Kit. 

You can rent out your Starlink Roam kit, which is against the official Starlink policy. Therefore, if Stalrlink realizes you’re doing it, you risk getting your contract terminated. 

In addition, you cannot buy numerous Starlink kits/parts. If you are suspected of engaging in unscrupulous trades with them, Starlink could terminate your contract. 

Conclusion

Starlink renting is a great way to use the internet, especially if you just want a quick or short-term solution. 

But if you regularly use Starlink, you’d rather buy the kit as it’s more economical. 

For rental, we advise you to apply via the official store rather than 3rd party agents who are pricier and crafty. Also, ensure you’re aware of the leasing agent’s damage policy.