Starry Station Wireless Router

Product Description

Features

• The touchscreen router that makes fast WiFi easy to use and set up
• Fast home WiFi: Better gaming, streaming and surfing.Compatibility:Works with video streamers, PCs, Macs, smartphones, tablets, and other WiFi devices; NAT, DHCP, PPPoE and IPv4
• Easy WiFi Parental Controls: Block usage on certain devices with just one tap
• Never Wait On Hold: Request a call directly from the touchscreen or message via the app
• Automatic Updates: Overnight updates deliver new and improved product features
• Know Your Speed: Auto speed checks powered by speedtest.net let you know if you get the level of internet service you pay for
• Works with all internet providers, modems and service types (cable, DSL, fiber, etc.); WPA2 Encryption

Top Reviews

Starry WiFi Access point is out of this world great!
by ubersimple.com (5 out of 5 stars)
May 17, 2016

Update at bottom:

I have been using my Starry for about 4 days now and I have to say, it is amazing as to how things change. I'm an IT professional so I'm not afraid of technical setups, but this requires no technical knowledge to setup. Power it up, plug it into your modem and walk through the setup wizard on the touchscreen and you are done.

Here is what you may not see in the description. It's a WiFi only access point(& Router), so you still need a modem. If you have an all-in-one modem (Like I do), turn off the modem's WiFi as you most likely will not need it any more since Starry becomes a great WiFi access Point for everything. The other thing that is not so apparent, is that you should connect everything to Starry. (In my situation, again I have all-in-one modem with 4 LAN ports on the back). This means do not use 3 of the other ports on the modem itself, just use the one port on the back of the Starry to connect a wired device or switch). Why? Because Starry won't be able to see those wired devices if connected to the modem. So to connect wired devices, you have to use the single OUT port on the back of Starry and connect it to a "Switch" (such as: TP-LINK 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Desktop Switch (TL-SG1008D) ) and then connect your wired devices to the switch.

The Pleasant Surprise:

I have about 25+ devices connecting to Starry(Image 1&2) - and all of them connected and none of them have dropped signal. (I did say I'm an IT Professional - and I do love gadgets). I have 2 NAS (Network storage) devices connected via Wired connection and I've connected my NAS devices to TP Links Powerline Adapters TP-LINK TL-PA4010KIT AV500 Nano Powerline Adapter Starter Kit, up to 500Mbps and they work great! Starry even shows these as Wired devices in the app and I can monitor data usage.

Also, for those wondering where to put Starry...you should find a spot central location to your devices that is out in the open. I was able to go to Comcast, get a Wire Splitter kit for free, and move my modem to the same wall outlet as my Cable Box. This let me put Starry next to my TV so it is central to everything in my home and I never need to run to the other room to check the router. So feel free to make Starry be in the middle of things.

The PROS:
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- Easy Setup
- Beautiful Look
- It broadcasts 2.5Ghz and 5 Ghz at same time under same SSID, and has another dedicated 5 GHZ SSID (uses same name as your network with "_5" at end. (This is so you can definitively connect to 5GHZ only).
- No issues connecting devices (Chromecasts V1 and V2, Wireless Printer, Nest Thermostat, Drop Cam, Nest Cams, Ipads, Tablets, Phones, Laptops, you name it)
- The mobile app for Android & iOS is great to use, even when not at your house. (use it to see what data is being consumed)
- 'ScreenTime' lets you make multiple rule for devices can be online (i.e. disable internet for your kids tablets off a few hours before bedtime)
-The mobile app lets you see what devices are connected, how long ago, and if the signal is poor for that device, plus how much data it is consuming (image 3)
- Being able to see diagnostics whether at home or not is awesome
- No more modem resets
- Custom naming of devices (use the app to edit a device name to something you can remember)
- You can add repeaters/extenders, as long as Starry is the main station
- The touch screen can turn off based on a timer you set (i.e. turn off screen at 8PM to 8AM), and WiFi remains on of course
- The screen shows floating bubble of how many devices are online. The biger the bubble, the more data it is using. The color of the bubble tells you signal strength (Red = none/weak, Dark Blue = great, light blue = OK)
- The power cord is a 2 prong figure-8 style cable, so you can use a regular extension cord if needed

Cons:
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- You have to use a switch (average prices are $15-$40) to get more wired ports and most people don't have one already
- No web interface from a Laptop (You must use the App or the touchscreen on the Device)
- You need to locate the unit more central to your home than at one end for best results.
- The price is higher than most all home WiFi access points, but it delivers on what it does.
- It does weigh a few pounds so it needs a good surface to rest on
- It does have a fan in it, but its very quiet unless you are up close (I do wonder what happens if the fan burns out since it can;t be replaced)

Overall, it was a wise purchase, and I'm really looking forward to lower cost, contract free, blazing fast, Over-the-Air Starry Internet service, (which should hopefully be offered to Starry owners first!).

Pick one up - you won't be disappointed!

UPDATE 1 WEEK LATER:
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THE Starry wifi router is really impressive. I've had no modem issues, no need to reset, no dropouts. All my devices are connected, and get a great signal. STARRY has 4 antennas inside so it broadcasts really well.

The mobile app is great, I can see how my network is at all times.

UPDATE 1 MONTH LATER:
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This device has been rock solid. I have not touched my modem in a month, all my devices connect. i ahve signal everywhere, and everything talks between divices great!

The mobile app is getting some improvements, which makes this device better over time. (most of the time routers rarely if ever update).

I added some screenshots of how it looks when many devices are connected. You will see a bunch of bubbles.

This is still a great buy even if just for a WiFi Access Point and Router.

One useful thing is to set the screen time rules, set one for around dinner time and when wifi goes out, it's time to eat!

UPDATE 3 MONTHS LATER:
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OK, this Wifi Router is a SOLID performer! In 3 months, I've done Nothing to my home wifi, moedem, devices. It is all just seemless.

I now have over 45+ devices of my own that connect to it.( See image below) Many guests came over and had zero issues connecting. I've never had to restart anything once to get it to work. It delivers in a big way! In the past, I've had to restart, reboot, and all sorts of the typical nonsense. Not any more. It's almost unbelievable that you need to do nothing other than the initial setup. If you hate dealing with WiFi routers, this will be your answer. Even at ~$300-$350 price range, the saving in headache and annoyance is worth it!

Also, the mobile app has been updated and some of the minor app bugs have been fixed. This is whats great about a devices made this way, it can improve over time to get new features and fixes, unlike other devices that come shipped one way and you get seldom updates.

One last note, I've used the mobile app to contact support for questions, like : "What to the lines on the chart relate to? (since both are kinda same in color), and they resonded within same day and within 24 hours. (Answer, the lighter color lice is that devices usage, the darker color line is the total useage for the house). Still really cool how they have great support and make it effortless to reach them right through the app itself.

I probably won't have much more to report on this device since after 3 months it's a solid performer for me and my many devices. If you are only a one or two device household, this might be considered overkill, so don;t think you need to spend money on a powerful device, but when you have many devices on one network, things can get more complicated, so a router like this alleviate any of those problems.)

In closing, if you are in a a shared office place or co-working location or something, this is the device you should try. Especially since you can set rules for each device and turn off devices at certain times, and see who is using all your bandwidth and deal with them directly if needed.

Even though it is pricier, it's definitely worth having a super premium device that performs extremely well.

IF YOU HAVE ANY SETUP ISSUES - CONTACT STARRY SUPPORT. THEY ARE AWESOME AT REPLYING! The device works great. If it fails you, get support, it's free through the app or through the settings page on the device.

Also, if you have a combo modern/router/wifi from your cable company like I do, you will need to put info 'bridge mode'(search 'how to set up bridge mode on XYZ modem' online) or you might get some conflict, warning messages, etc. (One person did below on comments, it may happen to you, but it's an easy fix)

PS- I have no affiliation or connection with Starry. I paid full price as a consumer. I'm just a big geek and fan!!
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I read a lot of good reviews on here and have been having some wifi ...
by noseovertail (3 out of 5 stars)
January 5, 2017

Well, I read a lot of good reviews on here and have been having some wifi issues at my house so I thought I would give it a shot. I currently use an Apple AirPort Extreme and have had great results. My local internet company kinda sucks so my speed varies a lot and I'm resetting my modem 2-3 times a week. Some of the reviews on here had people having the same issue and they said that all stopped with this router.

I have since returned this router but in the week I had it, I didn't have to reset my modem which was nice. The speed still varied though. I also found that this router has too many flaws for the price point.

My first problem with this is the range. With my current router I have great speeds throughout my entire house. With this one, if you are in another room, you lose speeds. Upstairs is even worse.

Second problem is the noise. The fan on this thing sounds like a game system/cd player spinning non stop. Very noisy.

The third is the heat. This thing gets hot. I have 2 young kids and would not want them to get too close to it worrying they may burn themselves.

Overall, I really wanted this thing to be great but it's not. Maybe wait until the next generation when they work out the kinks.
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Great solution for non-geeks.
by Kelly (5 out of 5 stars)
November 21, 2016

Starry is a very unique product. It is a AC class wireless router with Gigabit ethernet that provides that something extra that distinguishes it from other products in its class. The real strength of this router is the ease of setup and use and the useful information that is readily available to the average user that is simply not available from competing products. In reality, there are no competing products. There are plenty of reliable AC class wireless routers with Gigabit ethernet, but this product is a boon to the average, non-geek user. I love geeks but lets face it, not everyone wants to flash DD-WRT or other open source firmware to their router so that they can clone MAC addresses or setup port forwarding (Functions that can admittedly be handled in many stock firmware setups). Most users know little or nothing about networking and are simply interested in having a functioning internet connection. It shows at a glance the devices that are connected to the network. Starry lets you know about the "health" of your interent connection and gives you a better chance to determine if any connectivity issues are in your home or equipment or if the interent service provider is having issues. It shows which devices may be experiencing problems and provides potential solutions. It helps when the average user says "I have no idea why it's not working" The less you know about wireless networking, the more useful this product becomes. Highly recommended!
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So far, it's been great!
by Kevin L. (5 out of 5 stars)
July 16, 2017

I read a lot of mixed reviews on this bad boy and went back and forth on whether or not to purchase one for months. Finally, thanks to warehouse deals, I found and offer I just couldn't refuse and took the plunge. I've had it for about 2 weeks and I have to stay it's been great so far. Very stable and no issues whatsoever. The router I replace was also a very good router, and I only went the Starry route because of the additional information it provides at your fingertips. Perhaps the performance will slip as time goes on (which seems a common complaint from reviews I've read), which will cause me to alter this review at some point, but I have been very satisfied with the overall performance of the router thus far.

It's very nice to be able to see exactly what is connected to your Wi-Fi at all times, and see exactly how much bandwidth those devices are using (with the help of the Starry app). Also great to have a visual on how "healthy" your internet service is. So far mine has stayed in the 96 - 100% range, which I'm happy about. The Wi-Fi speed on both the 2.4 and 5 ghz networks has been fantastic so far and even slightly better than the router it replaced, which was pretty darn fast.

For those of you with kids, the ability to set "lockdown" windows for specific devices allows you to regulate exactly how much and when your kids have access to the internet. Nice feature for bed time, dinner, or to simply coax them outside for some fresh air.

Overall, there is nothing negative I can say about Starry station so far. It's been great, and I couldn't be happier with my purchase. As I mention, if that changes down the road, then I will certainly update this review.

Update: going on 3 months now and Starry has operated flawlessly. Couldn't be more satisfied with the reliability or speed it has given me. Not sure what the problem is with all of these bad reviews, but it couldn't be a better purchase in my book!

Update #2: coming up on the 2 year mark and the Starry is still working flawlessly. Again...couldn't be happier with the purchase.
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I'd have to say it's been disappointing
by Jim Stockham (2 out of 5 stars)
September 4, 2017

I really wanted to like the Starry Station. I used it for about year, but finally had to face the reality that it just wasn't that good. Our problems started pretty early on -- if the router was reset or lost power, it was hit or miss if it would re-establish a connection to the modem. For hours. Days even. I finally called technical support and my ticked was escalated up and eventually it reconnected and we had to start the setup from scratch. Over the year we probably restarted the router a dozen times, and every single time was problematic. The station has the one network port which we used to connect a NAS device. This, too, was constantly problematic as the Starry would drop the connection to the device and make it no longer accessible even from devices on the same network. We finally just gave up on the NAS. We have since replaced the Starry Station with another router and things have been perfect. Reboots on the router take seconds and the NAS works flawlessly and consistently. Starry was an expensive mistake for us.
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Love it!
by T. Barretta (4 out of 5 stars)
June 20, 2019

This router has been Great! The setup was easy a caveman can do it. I have not rated tech support cause I have not needed it The router does get warm and at first, it seems a little loud, but in a very short time you get use to it, and don't even hear it. I love the fact that you can see,all of your devices on the screen and that you can control everything without using a computer. I really noticed it has improved my WiFi signal throughout my home. I stream all of my entertainment and I have had no buffering since I installed the Starry station. The price can be really high, but I bought it really cheap on Amazon Wearhouse as a refurbished model. Besides the steep price, the only other downside is it only comes with one extra Ethernet port to connect other devices. If you see a great deal or have the money, than buy it
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Easy-Peasy!
by Fandy (5 out of 5 stars)
August 19, 2016

UPDATE: 2 years later: Still a great router! having Fios installed today and they will hook it up to their router/modem for me so i can continue to use it--Love that it shows each device i have named when something would go down. And 2 years later it is 1/3 the price i paid for it. that is a bargain and I recommend this product for sure--i would buy another if it was needed.

Wonderful for those of us that do not want to be frustrated by flashing lights--this spoke to me in plain English and works perfectly with my phone, tablets, smart TV, laptop and Roku, i set everything up myself in about 15 mins--i do NOT have it centrally located but it reaches a great signal across the ranch house (i don't not have a vast estate--but previously with my Netgear, i was unable to get wifi with my bedroom door closed, now I can go beyond that area to my outside deck with a strong signal,) so i am happy.

there was an issue with my cable wifi/power surge from a big storm--although it was not the fault of the router, the tech called me in 10 mins. (at 9pm on the east coast), he took the time to explain a few things to me and i am very pleased with that level of customer service. you can plug in your phone request from the router screen touch pad. Yes, the Starry is more expensive, but it was worth it for me, hoping for more from this company in the future.
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Great WiFi Performance & Experience for "High-Tech" but not "Technical" Families
by MLABrooklyn (5 out of 5 stars)
November 30, 2016

We've had our Starry router for about six months now and have been really happy with its performance. Initially, we felt it was a little expensive, but we took a chance, based on the interesting design and the touchscreen. No regrets!

The game changer for our household was the ability to see what devices are connected and what was slowing our network connections down. We like having that insight and I find myself making a habit of counting the bubbles to see who's online. A bonus was the surprising rollout of parental control features a few months ago, which we've started using with our kids. We like that we can control online access for our kids from the app or from the router - it makes managing those issues a lot easier. We're excited to see what other features get pushed out in the future.

Starry Station has far exceeded our expectations on performance and ease of use. We have had no issues with coverage in our home (about 1,600sq ft - apartment, urban environment). We were a little bummed about paying the initial full price (since I see the priced dropped for CyberMonday) - but the tradeoff has been having easier to manage, better wifi in our home these last six months. We had a Linksys router previously, which was OK, but completely opaque when it came to troubleshooting network problems. We are a "high-tech" family, but not a "technical" family, so Starry hits our sweet spot from and experience and performance perspective.
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Very nice router
by Max C. Anderson (3 out of 5 stars)
July 11, 2016

Updated:

I've had issues with my starry station. I keep getting "cannot connect to modem". I've spent 2 weeks or more on emails to starry support. They are nice enough people, but I'm getting very frustrated with these things not working properly. The starry station is also saying slow connection to internet, but when I plug directly into the modem I get a great connection. I'm really hoping this next one will be the winner since I do like the product when it is working.

Original:

They are going to do a swap out of my current station, but it aggrivates me that I need to wait till they get the old one back. I wish they did it like amazon where they send you a new one first.

I originally got one that didn't work. The packaging compared to the replacement was quite a bit different. I think Amazon shipped me a return of some sort initially. The second one came in shrink wrap and worked perfectly. Amazon did ship a new one immediately and it didn't cost me anything to return the bad one.

I was very apprehensive about paying 350 for a router but I've been having horrible issues with my cable internet provider. I figured if this thing keeps track of when I lose band with I was going to start using this to get my provider to fix their issues. Now I'm thinking it may have just been my Netgear router, so far this thing has worked flawless. It tells me when I'm having issues with devices and not my provider and tries to tell me how to fix it. It is nice to see the ambient screen telling if I have a bunch of data going through my router and who is the consumer of that data. The phone app works great, I'm able to set up all my static routes and port forwarding I'd expect with other routers, it is just much easier here. My non technical wife can go look at the screen and figure out if there is an internet issue. Now I don't have to go tell her if the provider is down or something is wrong with the devices connection. I've been running for 5 days now with out having to reboot my router or modem where I'd have to do this every few hours before.

I prefer to use the routers touch screen interface vs. one of the clunky and ugly web pages you have to go find on the router via an IP. I also like the phone app to do just about everything else.
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Worth it! PERIOD.
by Ryan G. (5 out of 5 stars)
September 15, 2016

Why haven't they come up with something like this earlier! This is so simple and easy to use. I hate those other Wifi routers...this is a touchscreen and tells you everything you need to know. It tells you how much data a person is using, how fast your connection is reading, block kids from using after hours on a school night, how many devices are online etc.. It is really sweet. Worth every penny!

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