SpaceX updated its Starlink coverage map to now let you know how fast its internet connection is in your state.
Previously, the availability map let people check if coverage was available as Starlink rolled out across the globe. As more satellites enter low-Earth orbit to widen its coverage area, the map has evolved to help people determine internet speeds. Now, Starlink lets people check their state’s download and upload speed, as well as latency, or the lag time as the modem pings the satellite.
The change gives consumers more line of sight into when they’d be able to get Starlink, which has captivated people because its potential coverage area is so vast.
The map shows everywhere Starlink is available, where it will expand to next, and places on a waitlist. You can focus your results by typing an address into the search bar.
Click the drop-down menu on “Availability” to set the map to select what specs you want to see: Download Speed, Upload Speed, or Latency. You can hover your cursor over the map to see a pop-up containing the information. You’ll need to switch options to view all estimated peak-hour averages.
Satellite internet has become more affordable as technology advances, though it doesn’t quite match cable or fiber connections. Cities and suburbs, where there are more obstructions, may notice it’s faster internet with terrestrial services.
However, rural areas that aren’t reached by other options can increasingly turn to Starlink. The updated map gives potential customers a detailed look at what Starlink services offer specific to their region, allowing them to make a more informed decision when picking an internet service.
For example, the map marks Wyoming with a download speed of 54 Mbps to 142 Mbps. Upload speeds are estimated to range from 10 Mbps to 18 Mbps, while latency falls between 48 ms to 69 ms. New York’s download speeds range from 38 Mbps to 117 Mbps and have an upload speed of 9 Mbps to 17 Mbps. Latency estimates average 40 ms to 50 ms.
SpaceX has over 5,000 Starlink satellites in orbit, which connect 1.5 million subscribers around the world. The company has plans to deploy more satellite constellations to expand coverage and increase capacity in population-dense areas.