Reliable Internet access at sea has become essential, whether for safety, operations or simply staying connected. For years, VSAT (very small aperture terminal) technology has been the benchmark for maritime connectivity. The arrival of Starlink, with its low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, has changed all that.
So which solution is right for you? Here's the full comparison.
Understanding the technologies : LEO vs. geo
The main difference between Starlink and VSAT lies in their satellite orbits.
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VSAT (geostationary orbit - geo): satellites 36,000 km from the Earth, offering wide coverage but high latency.
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Starlink (low earth orbit - LEO): satellites around 550 km away, offering very low latency and high data rates.
The comparison: Starlink vs. VSAT
Comparison table
| Features | Starlink Maritime | Traditional VSAT |
|---|---|---|
| Download speed | Up to 220 Mbps | 1 to 25 Mbps |
| Latency | 20-40 ms | 600+ ms |
| Coverage | Worldwide (expanding) | Worldwide with grey areas |
| Hardware | Compact, lightweight antenna | Large antenna |
| Installation | Simple, plug-and-play | Requires a technician |
| Cost of equipment | From €2,800 | 10 000 €+ |
| Subscription cost | 239 €/month | More expensive |
| Reliability | Very good | Sensitive to rain |
Starlink's advantages for modern navigation
1. Unrivalled speed and responsiveness
Starlink enables uses impossible with conventional VSAT: HD video calls, 4K streaming, online gaming, demanding professional tools...
2. Simple, accessible installation
Set-up in minutes, flexible packages, pause option.
3. Compact, affordable equipment
Smaller, lighter and much more affordable than VSAT.
When is VSAT still relevant?
VSAT remains useful in special situations:
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Guaranteed bandwidth (CIR)
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Tailor-made solutions for commercial fleets
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Advanced tools: cybersecurity, SLA, network management
Conclusion: Starlink, the new standard for the maritime Internet
For the majority of sailors - yachtsmen and professionals alike - Starlink represents a major technological leap forward. Starlink represents a major technological leap forward
VSAT remains relevant in a few specific cases, but the future of connectivity at sea clearly lies in low-Earth orbit.
Ready to equip your boat? Contact Advanced Tracking for personalized support.