Starlink hardware is not one-size-fits-all. The compact Starlink Mini uses a dedicated foot and a closed mount ecosystem. The rectangular Gen3 / Standard (V4) and the newer V5 share the same form factor but use different base / kickstand geometry, so a Gen3 bracket will not seat a V5 dish. This chart picks the right bracket for the surface you are actually bolting to.
1. Surface × Recommended Mount
| Mounting surface | Recommended bracket | Best for | Material note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal vehicle roof | Magnetic roof mount (4×66 mm magnets, 17 kg each) | Daily drivers, RVs | No drill; tool-free |
| RV / camper fiberglass roof | Permanent roof mount or pipe clamp | Long-term installs | Seal penetration with marine caulk |
| Boat hull / yacht | Marine-grade magnetic or rail clamp | Salt-spray environments | 316 stainless, anti-vibration pads |
| Round pole / rail 20–60 mm | Universal pipe clamp mount | Masts, roof racks | Confirm clamp diameter |
| Flat wall | Straight wall bracket | Building exteriors | Masonry anchors / lag bolts |
| Curved wall (silo, hull, RV side) | Curved stainless wall bracket | Rounded surfaces | 316 stainless |
| Inside cabinet / windshield | Dashboard / suction mount | Blocked roofs | Temporary use |
2. Material & Durability Rules
- Marine: specify 316 stainless — 304 will eventually corrode in salt spray. Anti-vibration pads are mandatory on yachts.
- Wind load: for pole and roof installs, size the mast and bracket for local gusts; a 1.5–2 m mast above the roofline clears most obstructions.
- Vibration: mobile and marine sites need dampened mounts; a bracket that is rigid on a bench can loosen on a washboard road.
FAQ
Q: Will a Gen3 bracket fit my V5 dish? No — V5 changed the base geometry; use V5-specific brackets.
Q: Is a magnetic mount safe at highway speed? Yes for the 4×66 mm / 17 kg design; suction mounts are for low-speed temporary use.
Q: Can I mount on a curved silo or hull? Yes — the curved stainless wall bracket is designed for that.