Connecting dozens of devices to your home WiFi can be a frustrating experience. Buffering videos, dropped Zoom calls, and lagging online games quickly ruin the fun.
But with Starlink’s satellite internet service, you may wonder – how many devices can you really connect?
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about maxing out your Starlink router, from speed and range to optimization tips.
You’ll learn how to transform your Starlink into a high-capacity fortress to handle all your household’s internet needs. Time to stop juggling and start seamlessly streaming, surfing, and gaming across all your devices!
An Overview of Starlink Router Capabilities
For those new to Starlink, let’s start with an overview of what you get with their router:
Now let’s dig into the big question…
How Many Devices Can Connect to the Starlink Router?
According to Starlink’s specs, the maximum device connections is 128.
However, your real-world results will vary based on:
While 128 devices sounds like a lot, you’ll likely experience slowdowns before hitting the limit. Let’s explore why by looking at…
Factors Limiting Your Starlink’s Device Capacity
Adding too many devices to your Starlink router can choke bandwidth and degrade performance. Here are the key limiting factors:
Available Bandwidth
Starlink download speeds average 100-200 Mbps in most regions so far. With this bandwidth, you can theoretically connect over 50 devices doing simple web browsing.
But just a handful of HD video streams can consume your entire capacity. Prioritizing bandwidth allocation is key.
Router Processing Power
Routers must manage network traffic, security, and device connections simultaneously. Low-end routers like Starlink’s can get overwhelmed before hitting the maximum connection limit.
WiFi Protocol Limitations
WiFi protocols have soft limits on device capacity per network. For example, 802.11n WiFi caps at 128 devices per wireless network.
Signal Interference
Neighboring WiFi networks, Bluetooth, microwaves, and more can interfere with signals. Even your home layout impacts range. Managing interference is vital.
Now let’s move on to…
Optimizing Your Starlink Router for Max Device Connections
While Starlink estimates 128 device connections, you’ll get the best speeds and reliability at 50 or below.
But with a few optimization tips, you can maximize your device capacity:
Position Your Router Centrally
Place the router in a central area free of obstructions. This improves WiFi range throughout the home.
Update Router Firmware
Starlink regularly issues firmware updates that boost performance. Keep your router firmware updated.
Use Ethernet When Possible
Gaming consoles, PCs, and streaming players will benefit greatly from wired Ethernet connections to the router.
Enable Band Steering
This feature pushes devices to the optimal 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz band, reducing congestion on one band.
Split 2.4GHz and 5GHz Bands
Separate your network into distinct 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks. Steer smart home devices to 2.4 GHz and computers/streaming to 5 GHz.
Set Client Limits Per Network
If your router supports it, limit devices to 50 or less on the 2.4 GHz network and 50 on the 5 GHz network.
Add a Wireless Access Point
Access points like a WiFi 6 mesh router can extend range and provide more wireless capacity.
Upgrade Your Router
Higher-end routers have beefier processors to handle more devices. WiFi 6 routers also allow more connections.
Limit Bandwidth Hogs
Restrict bandwidth for heavy users like game consoles to ensure bandwidth for other devices.
With these tips, you’re ready to connect all your devices and enjoy buffer-free streaming and quick downloads!
Next let’s look at…
How Many Devices Can Connect to a Mesh WiFi System?
One way to boost your Starlink’s device capacity is adding a mesh WiFi system like eero or Orbi.
Mesh routers use multiple access points to blanket your home in strong WiFi with less interference. This provides more available bandwidth and wireless capacity.
Most quality mesh systems today support 150-200 devices or more. Higher-end WiFi 6 mesh systems can handle over 200 simultaneously.
For example, eero Pro 6 systems deliver full speeds to over 75 devices thanks to WiFi 6, band steering, and dedicated backhaul.
When paired with Starlink for internet service, an eero mesh allows your entire household’s devices to connect reliably.
Other Benefits of Using Mesh WiFi with Starlink:
Bottom line – a mesh system combined with Starlink makes supporting tons of devices a breeze!
Now let’s look at…
Using Your Own Router with Starlink
The Starlink router gets the job done for basic connections. But if you require advanced management and features, using your own router is the way to go.
To use third party routers with Starlink, you’ll need an Ethernet Adapter to connect the satellite dish to your router’s WAN port.
Follow these steps:
- Disconnect the cable from Starlink router to dish.
- Connect Ethernet Adapter to dish cable.
- Connect Adapter to your router’s WAN port.
- Open Starlink app and enable Bypass Mode.
- Reboot router and confirm internet connectivity.
Once your router is online, you’ll regain full control to manage QoS, security, DNS, and more.
Benefits of Adding Your Own Router:
The right router opens up a world of optimization potential. Let’s look at…
Best Routers to Pair with Starlink
Here are our top picks for third party routers to maximize your Starlink connection speed and device capacity:
| Router | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Linksys Atlas Max 6E | – WiFi 6E – 10 Gbps port for NAS – 8 streams with 160MHz support |
| ASUS RT-AX86U | – WiFi 6 – Powerful quad-core CPU – AiMesh for easy mesh expansion |
| Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 | – WiFi 6E – 10GbE port – Quad-core 2.2 GHz processor |
| eero Pro 6 | – WiFi 6 tri-band mesh – 160 MHz channel support – Over 75 device capacity |
| TP-Link Deco X90 | – WiFi 6 mesh – 160MHz channels – 8 streams for high capacity |
As you can see, WiFi 6 and mesh systems dominate the best router options for Starlink due to their ability to handle many devices simultaneously.
Here are more advanced tips for maximizing device connections:
Frequently Asked Questions about Starlink Routers:
How do I check how many devices are connected to my Starlink router?
Use the Starlink app’s Network Connection info. It lists all connected devices and signal strength.
What is the max range of the Starlink router?
Up to 1,500 square feet for most set-ups. Obstructions impact range.
Does Starlink throttle certain devices’ speeds?
No throttling, but congestion from too many devices can slow speeds.
Is the Starlink router good enough?
It’s decent for basic use. Advanced users will benefit from mesh systems and WiFi 6 routers.
How do I limit bandwidth for certain devices?
You’ll need a router that supports QoS and bandwidth limiting like eero Pro.
Final Takeaways: Maximizing Your Starlink Router
While Starlink claims 128 device connections, real-world use will likely max out at 50-75 for optimal performance.
Congestion, interference, and bandwidth constraints limit how many devices can simultaneously connect.
But with the right tips and tools, you can maximize device capacity:
With the rising number of Internet-connected devices in homes today, having a high capacity router is crucial. By combining Starlink’s fast satellite speeds with a robust WiFi 6 mesh router, you can finally stop juggling connections and enjoy buttery smooth streaming across all your devices!
