Lower resolution content is less demanding, but even streaming 1080p HD video will require a 10 Mbps plan for smooth performance.Īnd that's all assuming you only stream to one device at a time. If you want to stream 4K content to get the best picture for your 4K smart TV, you'll need a connection of at least 25 Mbps. A gig everywhere should be a goal - not because people will max it out, but because it will ensure everyone can do what they want without worrying about the network being the bottleneck.”Īs more people shift to streaming for their TV and movie watching needs, bandwidth requirements become a bigger issue.

However, 'anything over 10 Gbps to a home user is pretty likely overkill,' Mitchell said.

See our article What is Gig-Speed Internet? for a full exploration of what gigabit internet plans offer, what they cost and what they allow you to do. Gigabit speed offers 1,000 Mbps, an exponential increase over the 20 to 200 Mbps plans that are generally considered high-speed broadband. Christopher Mitchell, director of the Community Broadband Networks Initiative at the Institute for Local Self-Reliance in Minneapolis, said this will ensure you have enough bandwidth when you really need it - for example, if you have a big file to upload or you're doing sophisticated work on your network. Web surfing, email, social networking, moderate videoĪll of the above plus sharing large files and live streaming video.Īnother broadband expert told Tom's Guide that the more bandwidth you have, the better, up to a point. But you may be paying more than you need to. I know, I know - all the ISPs are telling you to get a faster plan.

Use one of the best speed test apps to check your internet connection speed and determine whether you're really getting the bandwidth you're paying for. Where it's available, Gigabit speed internet plans are the best you can get for home connections. Serious data-hogs will want faster speeds and more bandwidth. If you're planning to stream 4K video content and have multiple devices connecting to your network simultaneously, seriously consider investing in faster download speeds, like 200 Mbps, which should work for most households.

Multiple devices demand more bandwidth.

The same holds true for other streaming services and game streaming services like Twitch.

Netflix says you need 5 Mbps to stream full HD content and 25 Mbps for 4K Ultra HD content, but you'll want faster speeds if you plan to connect several devices at once.

What internet speed do I need? Quick tips

What is my internet speed fios