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Best Broadband for Streaming
Everything you need to know about choosing broadband for buffer-free streaming of Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and more.
How Much Speed Do You Really Need?
Streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ are designed to work on a wide range of broadband speeds. The key is matching your speed to how many people stream at once and at what quality.
Single HD stream needs just 5-10 Mbps. 4K streaming jumps to 25 Mbps per stream. If you have multiple TVs streaming 4K simultaneously, you'll need faster broadband.
Don't forget other devices! Phones, tablets, smart home devices, and gaming all consume bandwidth. A busy household should overestimate their needs.
Streaming Speed Tips
- ✓SD Streaming: 3 Mbps minimum - even basic broadband handles this.
- ✓HD Streaming: 5-10 Mbps per stream - standard for most households.
- ✓4K Streaming: 25+ Mbps per stream - need faster broadband.
- ✓Multiple Devices: Add up each stream - a family of 4 might need 50+ Mbps.
- ✓Upload for Streamers: If you stream content, you need 10+ Mbps upload.
- ✓Buffer-Free: Choose providers with no throttling at peak times.
Speed Recommendations by Usage
Single user, HD streaming
Any basic fibre
Couple, 4K streaming
Standard fibre
Family, multiple 4K streams
Fast fibre
Heavy household, gaming + streaming
Ultrafast fibre