SpaceX Removes $40 Starlink Plan: What Wireless Dealers Need to Know

SpaceX has quietly pulled its budget-friendly $40-per-month Starlink plan from the US market, creating both challenges and opportunities for wireless dealers. The Residential 100Mbps plan, which debuted just last month, is no longer available on Starlink's website or mobile app, leaving customers searching for affordable connectivity alternatives.

The $40 Starlink Plan Disappears

The starlink budget plan removed dealers can now leverage as a sales opportunity. According to reports from Reddit users and industry observers, the Residential 100Mbps plan—which capped download speeds at 100Mbps for $40 per month—has been removed from Starlink's US offerings. One user noted, "I upgraded because I was having a lot of family over for Thanksgiving and am now not able to go back to the 40 dollar a month option."

The plan wasn't widely available to begin with. It appeared in select areas where Starlink had excess network capacity, including parts of Illinois, Nevada, Nebraska, and Maine. Industry experts speculate that high demand from new and existing subscribers quickly filled available capacity, prompting SpaceX to pull the offering.

Why This Matters for Wireless Dealers

With the starlink budget plan removed dealers now face increased demand from customers seeking affordable home internet solutions. This creates three major opportunities:

1. Position Alternative Home Internet Bundles

Customers who were considering Starlink's budget option are now looking for alternatives. Wireless dealers can capitalize by offering competitive home internet bundles through Xfinity, Spectrum, AT&T Fiber, and Optimum master agents.

These providers offer competitive pricing, reliable speeds, and—most importantly—availability in areas where satellite internet may not be necessary. Bundle home internet with wireless service to increase average revenue per customer and improve retention.

2. Leverage MVNO and Prepaid Partnerships

Budget-conscious customers who were attracted to the $40 Starlink plan are prime candidates for affordable wireless plans. Connect with MVNO distributors to offer low-cost wireless service that complements home internet needs.

Consider bundling prepaid wireless plans from T-Mobile Prepaid, Verizon Prepaid, or other MVNOs with home internet offerings. This creates a complete connectivity solution that appeals to cost-conscious consumers.

3. Expand Into Hotspots and Mobile Internet Solutions

For customers in rural or underserved areas who truly need satellite or mobile internet, position hotspots and routers as viable alternatives. Mobile hotspots powered by 5G networks can deliver competitive speeds at lower price points than standard Starlink plans ($120/month).

Partner with T-Mobile 5G master agents to offer high-speed mobile internet solutions. With T-Mobile's aggressive 5G-Advanced rollout planned for 2026, dealers can position themselves as experts in next-generation connectivity.

What Happened to the $40 Starlink Plan?

The Residential 100Mbps plan was designed for areas with excess Starlink capacity. However, the low price point attracted significant demand, quickly filling available slots. SpaceX has not officially commented on the removal, but the plan remains available in Canada and Australia, suggesting it was a capacity-driven decision specific to the US market.

Starlink's standard Residential plan costs $120 per month with no speed cap, making the $40 option an attractive entry point for budget-conscious consumers. With that option gone, dealers can step in with competitive alternatives.

Action Steps for Wireless Dealers

Here's how to capitalize on the starlink budget plan removed dealers opportunity:

• Audit Your Home Internet Partnerships: Ensure you're connected with Xfinity, Spectrum, and AT&T Fiber master agents to offer competitive home internet bundles.

• Create Bundle Offers: Combine wireless service with home internet for a complete connectivity solution. Highlight cost savings compared to standalone Starlink plans.

• Target Rural and Underserved Markets: Position mobile hotspots and 5G solutions as alternatives to satellite internet. Partner with hotspot distributors to expand your product lineup.

• Educate Customers: Many consumers don't understand the difference between satellite, fiber, cable, and mobile internet. Position yourself as the connectivity expert who can recommend the best solution for their needs and budget.

• Leverage MVNO Partnerships: Connect with MVNO distributors to offer budget-friendly wireless plans that appeal to cost-conscious customers.

The Bottom Line

The removal of Starlink's $40 plan creates a clear opportunity for wireless dealers to position alternative connectivity solutions. By bundling home internet with wireless service, offering mobile hotspots, and partnering with the right wholesale vendors, you can capture demand from budget-conscious customers seeking reliable, affordable connectivity.

Don't let this opportunity pass. Audit your vendor partnerships today and start positioning your store as the go-to destination for complete connectivity solutions.

Need wholesale vendors for home internet, hotspots, or MVNO partnerships? Explore the WDG Vendor Directory to connect with trusted distributors and master agents.