SpaceX has renamed its standard Starlink terminals, previously known as Gen 3. According to an update on the official website, the equipment is now offered in two main kits: Standard 4 and Standard 4X.
This move is part of SpaceX's strategy to simplify its product line, although at first glance, the new names might seem a bit confusing. Let's explore why the names have changed and what else is new.
Why "4"?
Many were probably surprised by the appearance of the number "4" in the name. The first thought that comes to mind is a new generation terminal. However, this is not the case. As explained by SpaceX, the goal of the update is to simplify the names of existing products for users. The "4" in the name corresponds to the technical index of the current standard antenna model, previously known as V4 (REV4).
Instead of using complex engineering indexes, the company decided to divide the offering into two kits, depending on user needs and chosen speed.
It is important to note that currently, these new kits and the updated tariff grid are officially available only in the United States.
However, for the Ukrainian market, this clarification is no less relevant, as there has been a long-standing confusion between the names "V4" and "Gen 3." Now, with the introduction of Standard 4 and Standard 4X, the situation becomes unambiguous: the number "4" is assigned to the entire current line of standard equipment.
By the way, we have already updated the name of the Starlink Gen 3 kit on our website to Starlink Standard 4X. So don't get lost!
Detailed kit breakdown: what's inside?
Currently, in the US, SpaceX offers two versions of kits for users of "Residential 100 Mbps," "Residential 200 Mbps," and "Residential Max" tariffs.
Both kits use the same antenna model — Standard V4 (REV4). Due to this, the signal reception quality and connection speed to the network will be the same in both cases. The main difference between Standard 4 and Standard 4X lies exclusively in the router model and power supply.
Standard 4 Kit: Versatility and Compactness
This kit is designed specifically for users of the "Residential 100 Mbps" tariff. It is intended for a small number of users (1–3 people) with basic internet needs.
The main novelty here is the updated Router Mini. Although its appearance has hardly changed, internally it is a different device. It now supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), meaning it receives power directly via the internet cable. This results in fewer cables near the router.
Another important detail: the voltage range has been expanded to 9V–24V. For RV and boat owners, this is a great update—Starlink can now be connected to a 12V or 24V onboard power supply without any converters. And dual-band Wi-Fi 6 ensures stable operation at speeds up to 100 Mbps.
Currently, the kit is not sold but is exclusively available for rent.
Standard 4X Kit: Maximum Power
This kit is designed for those who choose the "Residential 200 Mbps" tariff or the premium "Residential Max" plan. Here, we are offered a more powerful Router 3 (formerly Gen 3) for the terminal. It supports tri-band Wi-Fi 6, which provides better throughput and wider coverage (designed for approximately 10-20 active users). The router is equipped with two gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connection, and it is powered by an adapter via a "barrel jack" connector.
As for pricing, this kit is provided free of charge for rent, but in US regions where the network is congested, new subscribers must pay a one-time fee of $349.
New power supply unit
The new power supply unit included in the Standard 4 kit deserves special attention. It is equipped with two PoE ports, allowing the antenna and router to be connected. At the same time, the Standard 4X kit includes a power supply unit designed exclusively for connecting the Gen 3 router via a "barrel jack" connector. The Gen 3 router can be connected to the Starlink terminal, and it has two additional Ethernet LAN ports.
This power scheme is a specific development by SpaceX and uses proprietary Power over Ethernet standards. This means that the Router Mini and antenna in this configuration are optimized to work specifically with the original power supply unit, and the use of standard third-party PoE adapters (active or passive) may be limited.
Official instructions indicate that the additional Ethernet port on the Router Mini allows you to connect your own router to expand the network or use professional equipment.
We at Adaptis closely monitor these updates. Stay with us to keep up with all the news!
