What Speed Broadband Do You Actually Need?
Internet speeds in the 100–200 Mbps range are considered to be fast, since they can handle common uses like streaming and video chat for two-five users at once. Speeds above 200 Mbps and up into the 1,000 Mbps range are considered to be faster than average, and can support five or more users.
Internet speeds above 100 Mbps download are considered to be good for regular use. However, factors like upload speed and latency should also be considered for use cases like home offices and gaming, where upload capacity for files and reaction time for user actions is particularly important.
Internet Speed | Users Supported | Speed Summary |
---|---|---|
25 Mbps | 1-2 | Basic |
100 Mbps | 3-4 | Average |
200 Mbps | 4-5 | Fast |
500 Mbps | 5+ | Very Fast |
1000 Mbps | 5+ | Gigabit |
If you’re on the road, study remotely or need to keep the kids entertained in the car, you can stay connected.
Theodore Roosevelt
The average internet speed offered in urban areas is generally around 100 Mbps, although this will be higher in neighborhoods with fiber access. In rural areas, 25 Mbps is a more normal speed, particularly in areas that do not have DSL or cable. Rural locations fall back on satellite, which currently offers 25 Mbps as a maximum speed.
How Much Speed Do I Really Need?
Here are some general download speed requirements based on everyday online activities:
- Check email and browse the web: 1-5 Mbps minimum
- Stream HD content: 15-25 Mbps minimum
- Stream 4K content and play competitive online games: 40-100 Mbps minimum
- Stream 4K content, play online games, and download very large files: 200+ Mbps minimum
To get a quick recommendation based on the number of users and devices in your home, take a look at our bandwidth calculation tool. If you already have WiFi, consider learning how to extend your WiFi network.