Choosing The Best Starlink Tripod Adapter for Your Needs

Ever since we designed our own custom DIY Starlink Tripod Adapter and began offering it for sale, we've been amazed by the number of orders we've received. And along the way, we've also gladly answered lots of questions to help Starlink owners choose the best Starlink Tripod Adapter and tripod for their needs. In this post, we'll explore some of the most common questions and our tips.

What's included when ordering an Adapter?

When ordering a Starlink Tripod Adapter, you'll receive everything you need to attach the adapter to your tripod and your 2nd generation (rectangle) Starlink receiver dish. You'll receive a 3D printed adapter with mounting hardware already installed and ready to screw onto your tripod.

A tripod is NOT included with the adapter, but we have tips and some recommendations below.

Which size Adapter should I choose?

When ordering a Starlink Tripod Adapter, you need to choose a screw size that's compatible with your tripod. Most tripods have a 1/4"-20 or 3/8"-16 screw thread depending on the type of tripod.

Types of Tripods

Tripods most commonly come in three configurations:

• Tripod Legs Only: This option only includes tripod legs with a screw thread for the addition of a head or in this case a Starlink Tripod Adapter.
• Tripod Legs + Head: This option includes tripod legs with a screw thread to which a head is connected for attaching a camera. This type of tripod allows for the head to be removed to switch heads or in this case a Starlink Tripod Adapter.
• Tripod Legs With A Non-Removable Head: This option is similar to the Tripod Legs + Head option but without the ability to remove the head from the legs.

The choice of what type of tripod to get depends on if you'll be using it as a dedicated Starlink-only tripod or will also be using it for photography and videography.

Attaching to Tripod Legs vs Head

The Starlink Tripod Adapter can be used directly attached to tripod legs, a tripod head, or a tripod head with a quick-release plate.

Tripod legs, heads, and quick-release plates commonly come with one of two screw sizes:

• 1/4"-20: This is the most common screw size for cameras, tripod heads, tripod heads with quick-release plates, and even some tripod legs.
• 3/8"-16: This is a less common screw size sometimes used for cameras, tripod heads, tripod heads with quick-release plates, and tripod legs when more weight needs to be supported.

The Starlink Tripod Adapter is available in either of these screw sizes. However, each adapter is designed for a specific screw size and is NOT interchangeable with other screw sizes.

Size Recommendation

If you're using a Starlink Tripod Adapter as a dedicated Starlink-only tripod, I recommend using a 3/8"-16 Starlink Tripod Adapter with 3/8"-16 tripod legs for maximum strength and durability.

What tripod should I use with the Adapter?

Which tripod you use depends on your needs and if you already own a tripod.

Using An Existing Tripod

If you already own a tripod, you might find it convenient to use it with your Starlink Tripod adapter so you don't need to carry another piece of gear or spend more money.

Getting A New Tripod

If you don't already have a tripod or want a dedicated Starlink-only tripod there are quite a few options that mainly depend on size, weight, cost, and durability. Many people using the Starlink Tripod Adapter are traveling and therefore want a compact easy-to-store tripod.  In this case, a compact lightweight aluminum or carbon fiber travel tripod is ideal having reduced weight and a compact folded length.

Some options include:

The folded length can be important if you have a specific storage case or situation that the tripod needs to fit within. Also, the ability to fold the legs flat can make it less likely that the tripod will move or tip in high wind. And it also makes it easier to secure the tripod even further by placing a log, rock, etc on one of the tripod legs.

Can I buy a tripod + an Adapter as a package?

We do not currently sell a complete package that includes a Starlink Tripod Adapter + tripod legs. We are exploring offering this as an option in the future.

What tools do I need to attach the Adapter?

When ordering a Starlink Tripod Adapter, you'll receive everything you need to attach the adapter to your tripod and your 2nd generation (rectangle) Starlink receiver dish. You'll receive a 3D printed adapter with mounting hardware already installed and ready to screw onto your tripod.

Most people hand tighten their Starlink Tripod Adapter to their tripod. However, some people may wish to further secure the Adapter as follows:

• Using a socket wrench: Screw on the Starlink Tripod Adapter to your tripod and hand tighten. Then use a socket wrench with a 4" extension and a 9/16" socket (for a 3/8"-16 Starlink Tripod Adapter) or 7/16" socket (for a 1/4"-20 Starlink Tripod Adapter) being careful to not overtighten. Caution: overtightening could cause damage to the Adapter.
• Using thread locker: Apply a thread locker such as Loctite Blue 242 to the tripod screw thread before attaching the Starlink Tripod Adapter. Then screw on the Adapter to your tripod and hand tighten. A thread locker creates a more secure connection while still allowing the connection to be separated if needed.

How should I store and transport the Adapter?

We chose to design a custom DIY Starlink Travel Case to store our Starlink, including our Starlink Tripod Adapter and tripod legs. You could also choose to store your Adapter in a tripod bag or other location that prevents it from moving around and being damaged by other gear. While Starlink Tripod Adapters are made from durable PETG with a higher-than-normal infill, Adapters are still susceptible to damage from other gear or extremely high temperatures.

What if I have feedback?

We love feedback! Email us at info@banthaoverland.com or message us on Etsy.

What if I have other questions?

If you have a question that's not listed here, email us at info@banthaoverland.com or message us on Etsy.