Recommended internet speed by platform

Twitch

Twitch is the world’s leading live streaming platform for gamers. Millions around the world tune in to watch live broadcasts and interact with each other. Twitch recommends at least 3 – 6 Mbps for video game live streams and other content.

At Frontier, we recommend at least 25 Mbps for smooth performance because other devices and users in your home can affect your internet speeds. So, for uninterrupted gaming, make sure you have wiggle room.

Netflix and Hulu

You can stream videos across platforms even if your internet connection is below the recommended speed, but you’ll probably experience poor video quality.

Hulu and Netflix recommend a minimum of 3 Mbps for standard-definition viewing. Netflix requires at least 5 Mbps for high-definition viewing, and Hulu requires at least 8 Mbps to watch live streams. For the best HD streaming possible, you should have 25+ Mbps.

Zoom meetings

Zoom meetings can function at 2 Mbps, but researchers at San Francisco State University have found that internet speeds below 5 Mbps aren’t enough for reliable two-way interaction on the app. For glitch-free video calls, we recommend at least 25 Mbps.

4K video streaming

Streaming video in 4K HD requires a fast and powerful internet connection. For example, you’ll need 25 Mbps to watch a 4K Netflix show and at least 16 Mbps to stream 4K content on Hulu.

Stay connected to your world with Frontier^® Internet (if available in your area). Or go for our Fiber Internet service with a 100% fiber-optic network that delivers blazingly fast upload speeds as fast as download speeds (if available in your area). Find out if Frontier Internet is available in your area.

Frontier’s Fiber Internet service has a speed capable range as fast as 2000 Mbps. Max speeds are wired speeds. Wi-Fi speeds may vary. See performance details at frontier.com/internetdisclosures.

Live TV

The speed you need for streaming live TV depends on the platform, the device you’re using to stream and the number of devices connected at the same time. Here’s what each platform currently requires at a minimum for reliable live TV streaming:

YouTube TV: 3 Mbps for SD quality, 7 Mbps for HD streaming and 13 Mbps for multiple HD streaming
Sling TV: 5 Mbps for streaming on a TV or computer
Philo: 3 Mbps for SD quality, 7 Mbps for HD streaming and 13 Mbps for multiple HD streaming
Hulu + Live TV: 8 Mbps or higher
fuboTV: Between 3 and 25 Mbps, depending on the resolution
Frndly TV: 1.5 Mbps for SD and 5 Mbps for HD streaming
AT&T TV: 8 Mbps or higher per device

(Speed requirements for streaming products may have changed and are subject to change.)

If your household has multiple devices connected to the internet, you’ll need a faster internet connection to accommodate the required bandwidth. For a high-quality viewing experience, HD works best with an internet speed of 25 Mbps or higher.

Streaming music

Music streaming services like Spotify and Pandora actually don’t require fast internet alone. You can enjoy your favorite tunes at around 1 Mbps or less. But if you’re streaming music while gaming online or streaming HD videos, you’ll need more speed, so your tunes don’t skip a beat.

Tips to boost online streaming performance

You want to have the fastest, most reliable internet connection for your home. But if you’re like most households, you probably have more than one device connected to Wi-Fi. There could also be factors other than internet speed affecting your streaming experience. Here are some tips to ensure the best performance of your streaming services.

Limit apps running in the background during your stream

Online activities like web browsing, online shopping, social media, and sending and receiving emails all consume data. And most apps operate even when they’re not open or in use. While you’re streaming, it’s best to make sure the apps you use regularly aren’t running.

Limit other users on your network

Every device on your network uses bandwidth, which refers to how much data transfer your internet connection can handle at one time. The more devices connected at the same time, the more bandwidth you’ll need.

You and your household may want to consider downloading TV shows, movies or music so that you’re not constantly streaming. This way, you can also limit other users on your network when you need to get on a Zoom call for work or school.

Use an ethernet cable

An ethernet cable is a cord that runs from a router or modem to your computer, giving it dedicated internet access at full capacity. Wireless connection is convenient, but more devices using the network wirelessly can also slow down your connection. For devices that regularly download considerable amounts of data, like gaming consoles or desktop computers, consider using an ethernet cable instead of relying on Wi-Fi.

Keep your router nearby (for Wi-Fi signals)

If you use a wireless internet connection, your signal decreases when you move away from your router. Physical objects like walls can slow your connection down, so the closer you are to the router, the better your chance of getting the max internet speed available.

Make sure your router is current

The router is the switchboard for all the different connections among the devices on your network. This is why the quality of your modem or router can also affect the speed of your network. Check to make sure you don’t have an old router that isn’t capable of transmitting the speed and strength of your internet signal.

Most of the time, the router from your internet service provider is enough for basic internet activities. But if you have four or more devices connecting to the network, or if you stream or play games online, you’ll probably benefit from a router upgrade.

Choose a good internet service provider

Your internet service provider controls the incoming speed of your internet service based on the plan you have with them. Now that you know how much internet speed you need for each activity; you might need a higher service plan for your streaming needs.

For fast internet, check out Frontier’s high-speed internet plans and Fiber Internet plans – ranked as the Top 5 Fastest Fiber Internet and Most Affordable Internet in 2020. You can stream away with no data caps and no annual contracts. Find out if Frontier Internet is available in your area.

Find the best internet service for your streaming needs

Finding good internet service providers, checking their coverage and speeds they offer, and browsing their customer service reviews is easy. Look for ISPs that offer multiple plans to fit your needs. You never know when you might need more or less internet speed. You also don’t want to be stuck in a contract.

As you search for the best internet service, here’s an easy way to find and compare a list of available providers in your area.