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What Internet Speed Do You Need for Streaming and Gaming?

The right internet speed depends on what you’re doing, how many people are connected, and how well your home network reaches your devices.

Streaming video needs enough download bandwidth for your chosen picture quality. Online gaming also depends on connection stability and latency, the time it takes data to travel between your device and the game server.

Internet speed for streaming TV and movies

Requirements vary by streaming service. For example, Netflix recommends a stable connection with these download speeds:

  • HD, 720p: 3 Mbps or higher per stream.
  • Full HD, 1080p: 5 Mbps or higher per stream.
  • 4K Ultra HD: 15 Mbps or higher per stream.

These recommendations are for individual streams. If several people are watching, downloading files, or using video calls at once, allow additional bandwidth for those activities. Netflix Help Center

Internet speed for online gaming

When a game runs on your console or computer, screen resolution and frame rate don’t directly determine the internet speed you need. The connection carries game updates between players and servers rather than streaming every frame.

A stable connection, low latency, and low packet loss matter alongside bandwidth. Faster download speeds can also reduce the time spent downloading games and updates.

What about cloud gaming?

Cloud gaming streams the game’s video to your device, so its bandwidth needs are different.

For example, NVIDIA GeForce NOW requires at least:

  • 720p at 60 FPS: 15 Mbps.
  • 1080p at 60 FPS: 25 Mbps.

Higher resolutions and frame rates can require more bandwidth. Check your cloud gaming service’s requirements for your device and subscription. NVIDIA GeForce NOW

Get more from your home connection

  • Use Ethernet when practical: A wired connection avoids Wi-Fi interference between your device and router.
  • Check Wi-Fi coverage: Distance, walls, and router placement can affect the connection reaching your devices.
  • Account for simultaneous use: Downloads, streams, and video calls all share your available bandwidth.
  • Consider upload speed: Uploads matter for broadcasting gameplay, video calls, and cloud backups.

Mesh Wi-Fi can improve coverage around your home, but it doesn’t increase the speed of your internet plan.

Check Planet Networks availability

Planet Networks offers fiber internet with equal upload and download speeds and local support in locations across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and New York.

Check your address to see whether service is available. If we haven’t reached your location yet, submit your information through our availability checker to hear when service becomes available.

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