Are You Streaming Netflix with the Fastest Internet Service?
Ever since the lockdown started, there has been a rise in the use of streaming services. And rightfully so. There has to be a way out to kill the boredom. And at times to divert the mind away from all the negative news making rounds on news channels. So, if you have been streaming a lot lately, then you would also know that there is a need to educate the people regarding the best Internet services for a certain speed range that one wants.
But before that, you must know your speed needs as well.
The Best Internet Speed for Various Online Activities
You cannot choose a service provider unless you are aware of the Internet speed needs of the activities that are a part of your daily life. For example, streaming shows or movies online. So, to make you more aware of it, here are some activities along with the speeds that they can best be performed at. You can choose the best Internet service accordingly Because let’s face it, the Internet speed matters whether it is for listening to songs or gaming. Have a look at the list below to learn about the speeds that each service requires:
- Netflix – 3 – 25 Mbps
- Disney+ – 5 – 25 Mbps
- 4K video – 25 Mbps
- Twitch – Minimum 4 Mbps
- Hulu – 3-16 Mbps
- HBO Now – 5 Mbps
- Music – 2 -10 Mbps
So, the minimum speed that you would need is 2 Mbps while the maximum would be 25 Mbps. Therefore, the
How Much Internet Speed is Needed for Streaming Netflix?
Ideally, Netflix functions the best if you have access to speeds between 3 and 5 Mbps. However, the requirement can go up to 25 Mbps depending on the video quality that you wish to watch Netflix in. For example, to watch your favorite show in 4K resolution requires a minimum speed of 25 Mbps. You can check Optimum Internet services and others if they offer packages that offer the required Internet speed.
But the good news is that Netflix is available in SD and HD resolutions as well. So, you do not always need an internet connection that offers 25 Mbps. I can get pricey for many.
Problem with the Suggested Speeds by Netflix
You might think after reading the speed requirements above that this is doable. However, there is a little issue. Netflix suggested these speeds and if you picked the Cox Internet bundle with 5 Mbps speed for yourself already, you would want to read this. Netflix’s suggestion tells the users of the speed that they would need access to if they wished to watch Netflix. And that speed is for streaming Netflix alone. However, you do not just open one laptop or device at your home and continue doing only one thing online.
In an ideal home, 4-5 people are surfing on their own devices and keeping themselves busy in different activities. This means that the speed suggested by Netflix is misguiding. You would need more than 5 Mbps to cater to all the varying needs of your family members.
So in a more realistic situation, below are the speeds that you would need to stream Netflix:
- 5 Mbps for 1 SD stream
- 25 Mbps for 1 SD streaming and basic browsing by other family members
- 100 Mbps for multiple streams in SD/HD resolutions along with basic browsing
- Between 300 and 500 Mbps for multiple streams in HD or 4K resolutions and basic browsing
- 1 Gbps for streaming in high definition apart from uploading files and basic browsing
How to Watch Netflix in HD?
For that to happen, you will need to subscribe to an HD plan. Once done, you will also need to select the auto or high-quality video option on your end.
Is Satellite Internet Sufficient?
Subscribing to prominent service providers like CenturyLink Internet is a better idea than going for satellite Internet if you wish to stream videos. Satellite Internet is not the best option when it comes to streaming any type of video. And there are reasons behind this too. One is cost and the other is data caps. Satellite Internet plans come at a high cost while having data caps as well.
So, instead of wasting your money on satellite Internet, you would be better off subscribing to some satellite TV package. Bu choosing satellite Internet would cost you a lot while also making your videos buffer. Look for other best Internet services instead.
However, if you reside in an area where you have no other option but to go with the satellite Internet option, then take a wise decision. Have a look at the various plans because the quality of your Internet would depend on it largely. Not to forget that streaming on Netflix consumes a lot of data as well. Therefore, you will have to play smart to make sure that you are not paying a fortune only to be able to stream Netflix with ease.
Best Internet Service to Stream Netflix
Having given all the dos and don’ts, you should also know which service you should subscribe to for a smooth streaming experience. If you live with your family and many members will use the same Internet connection, then you should opt for Spectrum Internet plans. The company offers the most affordable family deals. Moreover, many of the packages do not ask you to sign a contract either. You can visit the website or call a rep to learn more about the available plans and deals. Area-specific packages are also available.
However, if you are willing to spend more and wish to watch your content in 4K resolution, then you should go for AT&T Internet. Because there is nothing about it that you would hate. The plans start from a speed of 100 Mbps and go up to 940 Mbps. This means that you cannot only relish watching shows and movies in high resolution but your family can continue browsing as well.
Apart from the above-mentioned names, some other options that are worth considering include Frontier and Xfinity. Again, you will have to seek help from a rep or the websites to read the plans in detail. However, it is suggested to look around and compare the plans offered by various companies before you conclude. Thorough research is essential!
