Best internet speeds for streaming without buffering
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What’s the minimum internet speed needed for streaming?
The minimum internet speed for streaming technically can be as low as 1 Mbps. But in reality, you need a faster connection to maintain a consistent connection for streaming since other devices in your home pull from your internet speed. For a quality connection with little buffering, we recommend the following speeds, but remember that these figures are based on just one connected device:
- Standard Definition (SD): at least 3 Mbps.
- High Definition (HD): at least 5 Mbps.
- 4K or Ultra HD (UHD): 15 Mbps or more.
Not sure what internet speed you currently have? Try out the best speed tests to find out.
What else affects the minimum speed for streaming?
- Streaming platform: The minimum internet speed needed for streaming also depends on the streaming platform you use. An “on-demand” service, such as Netflix or Hulu, will have a required speed for streaming that is lower than the speed needed for streaming live TV.
- Number of simultaneous streams: The minimum speeds listed are per stream. If you are streaming on multiple devices at once, make sure to add the minimum speed for each streaming platform you are using. For example, streaming Netflix in HD on one device is 5 Mbps but streaming on three devices simultaneously would require at least 15 Mbps.
- Internet technology type: Some internet types produce a better streaming quality. Fiber, cable, 5G or satellite internet are just a few types of internet connections available that can support streaming.
- Number of connected devices: Other devices connected to your home Wi-Fi can impact streaming. Even if they are not streaming, other devices like wireless security systems, cell phones, laptops or tablets will affect the available bandwidth for streaming. Take all your online activities and devices into account when deciding on a good internet speed for your home.
What’s a good internet speed for streaming?
The following table shows minimum internet speeds for streaming in SD, HD and 4K on various popular streaming platforms. For these speed requirements, HD includes 720 or 1080p resolution, while 4K streaming also incorporates UHD. The best internet speed for streaming for your household will be determined by the streaming platform, video quality and number of devices you are connecting in your home.
| Streaming platform | SD minimum speed | HD minimum speed | 4K minimum speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | 1 Mbps | 5 Mbps | 15 Mbps |
| Disney+ | N/A | 5 Mbps | 25 Mbps |
| fuboTV | 3 Mbps | 10 Mbps | 25 Mbps |
| Hulu | 1.5 Mbps | 6 Mbps | 16 Mbps |
| Hulu Live | N/A | 8 Mbps | 16 Mbps |
| Max (formerly HBO Max) | N/A | 5 Mbps | 50 Mbps |
| Netflix | 3 Mbps | 5 Mbps | 15 Mbps |
| Philo | 3 Mbps | 7 Mbps | 13 Mbps |
| Sling TV | 3 Mbps | 5 Mbps | 25 Mbps |
| YouTubeTV | 3 Mbps | 7 Mbps | 25 Mbps |
How to choose the best internet speed for streaming
Cutting the cord and leaving cable TV behind may mean upgrading your internet speed. However, you don’tnecessarily mean you need 1 GB or more. The recommended internet speed for streaming can vary based on the amount of streaming devices in your home. Consider these factors to help select the best internet deal for your home’s streaming needs.
- What providers are available to you? City and suburban areas often have three or more internet service provider options, while rural internet might be limited to just one or two providers.
- What streaming platform(s) do you plan to use? Refer to the previous table to estimate the minimum speed you need to stream on one device at the level of video quality that you prefer.
- How many people will be streaming at one time? For households with multiple devices streaming at once, account for the extra bandwidth needed to support streaming on several devices.
- Are there other Wi-Fi devices in the home that will be using a lot of bandwidth? Gaming consoles, tablets, video doorbells and more will need their share of internet speed, so account for other online activities when picking an internet plan.
Top internet providers for streaming
Because many streaming platforms only need a minimum of 3 to 5 Mbps to function, nearly any internet provider on the market will work for streaming. Any home Wi-Fi will do as long as you aren’t still using dial-up internet. Whether you want cheap internet, free internet or the fastest internet connection possible, streaming is possible.
The following companies are among the best internet providers for streaming because they are widely available, offer a variety of price points that meet the recommended internet speed for streaming, have stable connections and have a minimum of at least 50 Mbps.
| Provider | Price range* | Speed range | Connection type |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T Fiber♱ | $55–$245/mo. | 300–4,700 Mbps | Fiber |
| CenturyLink | $55–$75/mo. | 200–940 Mbps | Fiber |
| Cox | $35–$149.99/mo. | 100–2,000 Mbps | Cable |
| Frontier Fiber | $29.99–$154.99//mo. | 200–5,000 Mbps | Fiber |
| Google Fiber | $70–$150/mo. | 1,000–8,000 Mbps | Fiber |
| Spectrum Internet®♱♱ | $30–$70/mo. | 100–1,000 Mbps | Cable |
| T-Mobile 5G Home | $35**–$70/mo. | 87–415 Mbps | 5G |
| Xfinity | $9.95–$299.95/mo. | 50–6,000 Mbps | Cable |
| Verizon Fios | $34.99**–$119.99/mo. | 300–2,300 Mbps | Fiber |
| Verizon 5G Home | $35**–$70/mo. | 85–1,000 Mbps | 5G |
Disclaimers
*Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. Price may include autopay and paperless billing discounts. Speeds may vary.
**When bundled with a qualifying mobile plan.
***Limited availability. Service and rate in select locations only. Paperless billing required. Taxes and fees apply. Rate excludes CTL Fee not to exceed $1.50/mo./line.
♱Price after $10/mo discount with eligible Autopay & Paperless bill (w/in 2 bills). Monthly State Cost Recovery Charge in TX, OH, NV applies. One time install chrg may apply. See offer details. Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds may vary. For 5GIG, single device wired speed maximum 4.7Gbps. For more info, go to www.att.com/speed101. As of 03/20/25.
♱♱Limited time offer; subject to change; new residential customers only (no Spectrum services within past 30 days) and in good standing with Spectrum. Taxes and fees extra in select states. SPECTRUM INTERNET: Standard rates apply after promo period. Additional charge for installation. Speeds based on wired connection. Actual speeds (including wireless) vary and are not guaranteed. Capable modem required for all Gig speeds. For a list of capable modems, visit Spectrum.net/modem. Services subject to all applicable service terms and conditions, subject to change. Not available in all areas. Restrictions apply. ©2025 Charter Communications, all rights reserved.
Does the type of internet connection affect streaming?
Streaming speed requirements focus only on the download speed of your internet connection. Upload speeds don’t matter when streaming because you are not uploading any content. Still, fiber internet remains one of the best internet connections for gaming and streaming because it is a dedicated line. With fiber-optics, the internet is coming straight to your home without being shared with any surrounding neighbors.
Compare this technology to shared connections like cable or 5G, where your internet speed can occasionally fluctuate when more people are online in your area. This inconsistency in speed causes buffering or lag when streaming.
DSL is a dedicated line, as well, but is not as preferred as fiber for streaming since the technology is becoming outdated and the maximum speeds rarely top 100 Mbps.
Overall, the poorest internet connection for streaming is satellite internet because the signal has to travel to the satellite and back. Plus the connection is shared with other users who get their internet signal from the same satellite.
Internet speed for streaming FAQs
Is 100 Mbps fast enough for streaming?
100 Mbps is fast enough for any existing streaming platform, even if you want to watch in the highest 4K resolution.
Do certain streaming platforms need higher internet speeds?
Yes. Streaming live TV (Hulu Live, fuboTV) needs a slightly higher internet speed than on-demand or prerecorded content, such as Netflix or Disney+.
What’s the best internet for streaming?
Multiple internet providers work great for streaming. Fiber and cable internet work the best. 5G internet, fixed wireless and DSL internet are also good for streaming. Satellite internet can support streaming, but you may have more issues with lag due to the way the connection operates. You also need to be aware of any data limits or overage fees you might incur with a satellite connection.
Do I need a certain internet speed for streaming 4K?
Yes. 4K streaming requirements vary slightly depending on the streaming platform you are using, but generally, you need a speed of 25 Mbps per stream to support 4K content.
Can internet be too fast for streaming?
No, there isn’t an internet plan that is too fast for streaming. Still, you want to consider the actual speed you need to save money on internet and avoid paying for faster Wi-Fi than necessary. The difference between a basic internet plan and a superfast speed can be $50 or more, so paying for more than you need could cost you hundreds of dollars over the course of a year.
This content is produced through an alliance between USA TODAY and Allconnect.com. Under the alliance, Allconnect publishes articles about broadband-related topics upholding strict editorial integrity standards in line with USA TODAY’s Principles of Ethical Conduct. The opinions, analyses, reviews and recommendations expressed are those of the Allconnect editorial staff alone. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Read more about our Allconnect Advertising Disclosure.
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