The Starlink Gen 3 router (UTR-231) heralds a new era in home networking technology, promising faster speeds, extended range, and seamless integration with existing Starlink hardware. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the features, specs, and performance of the Gen 3 router, as well as its compatibility with previous generations of Starlink dishes, including the new starlink gen 3 dish.
Overview
Boasting a complete redesign and cutting-edge technology, the Gen 3 router represents a significant leap forward in home networking. With its sleek styling and enhanced features, it sets a new standard for connectivity in smart homes. Despite the absence of the new Starlink dishes, the Gen 3 router is backward compatible, making it a viable upgrade option for owners of Gen 1 and Gen 2 hardware.
Price and Availability
Priced at $200, the Starlink Gen 3 router offers exceptional value for users seeking to optimize their smart home experience. While it’s not yet available for public purchase, select customers have the opportunity to test it out through invitation-only programs.
Features
Key features of the Gen 3 router include:
- Two Ethernet ports for easy device connectivity.
- LED status indicator for at-a-glance system monitoring.
- Backward compatibility with all previous Starlink dish versions.
- Compatibility with Gen 2 mesh nodes for expanded coverage.
Specs
Technical specifications of the Gen 3 router include:
- Dimensions: 2.4” x 11.8” x 4.7” (55 x 300 x 120 mm)
- Weight: 2.2 lbs (1 kg)
- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6, 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax
- Device Limit: Connect up to 235 devices simultaneously
- Security: WPA2
- Radio: Tri-Band 4 x 4 MU-MIMO
- Input Ports: Starlink dish connection, power adapter
- Output Ports: 2 x LAN Ethernet ports
- Operating Temperature: -22°F to 122°F (-30°C to 50°C)
- IP Rating: IP56 (Water Resistant), designed for indoor use only
Setup Guide
Setting up the Gen 3 router is straightforward, with detailed instructions provided for each generation of Starlink dish:
Gen 1 Round Dish
For Gen 1 hardware, simply replace the old router with the Gen 3 router and follow the setup instructions provided.
Gen 2 Standard Dish
For Gen 2 Standard dish users, additional steps are required to integrate the Gen 3 router while retaining the existing Gen 2 router for power supply purposes.
Gen 2 High Performance Dish
High Performance dish users can seamlessly upgrade to the Gen 3 router without any complications.
Review
The Gen 3 router boasts a sleek design and improved functionality over its predecessors. With Wi-Fi 6 technology and a tri-band radio, it delivers faster speeds and better range, ensuring a more consistent and reliable connection for smart home devices.
Upgrades Over the Gen 2 Router
Compared to the Gen 2 router, the Gen 3 router offers significant improvements in performance and functionality. Notably, the transition to Wi-Fi 6 technology and the addition of a tri-band radio enhance both speed and range, providing users with a superior networking experience.
Wifi Speeds and Range
| Router | Wi-Fi Speed (3 feet away) | Wi-Fi Speed (50 feet away) |
|---|---|---|
| Starlink Gen 1 | 436 Mbps | 47 Mbps |
| Starlink Gen 2 | 670 Mbps | 47 Mbps |
| Starlink Gen 3 | 864 Mbps | 203 Mbps |
Is Upgrading to the Gen 3 Router Worth It?
For owners of older Starlink systems, the Gen 3 router offers a compelling upgrade path, delivering modern technology and enhanced performance. However, the decision to upgrade may depend on individual needs and compatibility with existing hardware, including the new starlink gen 3 dish.
Will the Gen 3 Router Make My Internet Faster?
While upgrading to the Gen 3 router won’t necessarily increase your internet connection speed, it will improve Wi-Fi network performance, allowing for faster speeds and better coverage throughout your home.
Final Thoughts
With its advanced features and superior performance, the Starlink Gen 3 router is poised to revolutionize home networking. Whether you’re upgrading from an older Starlink system or seeking to enhance your smart home experience, the Gen 3 router offers a compelling solution. Stay tuned for its public release and experience the future of home connectivity firsthand with the Gen 3 Starlink router and dish combination.
FAQs
- What are the main differences between the Starlink Gen 3 router and previous versions?
- The Gen 3 router offers Wi-Fi 6 technology, tri-band radio, and increased device connectivity compared to previous versions.
- Is the Starlink Gen 3 router compatible with the new Starlink Gen 3 dish?
- Yes, the Gen 3 router is designed to be compatible with all Starlink dish versions, including the latest Gen 3 Starlink dish.
- Can I use the Gen 3 router with older Starlink systems?
- Yes, the Gen 3 router is backward compatible with Gen 1 and Gen 2 Starlink systems.
- What improvements does the Gen 3 Starlink router offer in terms of speed and range?
- The Gen 3 router provides faster Wi-Fi speeds and better range, with significant improvements over the Gen 2 router.
- How do I set up the Starlink Gen 3 router with my existing Starlink hardware?
- Follow the detailed setup instructions provided for your specific Starlink dish generation, ensuring a seamless integration with your network.
