Internet Speed Guide

By Matthew Sweeney
Matthew Sweeney
WRITTEN BY Matthew Sweeney All Articles →

Managing Editor

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Reviewed by Matthew Sweeney
Matthew Sweeney
REVIEWED BY Matthew Sweeney All Articles →

Managing Editor

Internet speed affects how you use the internet at home. Whether streaming shows, working from home, or gaming, you need a fast and reliable connection. Knowing what impacts your internet speed helps you choose the best plan and setup for your needs.

Internet PlanDownload Speed*Upload SpeedSummaryIdeal UsersSuitability
5 Mbps0.625 MB/s768 KbpsSlow1Browsing on Single Device
10 Mbps1.25 MB/s1.7 MbpsBasic2Browsing on 2 Devices
25 Mbps3.125 MB/s3 MbpsAverage3Browsing on 2-3 Devices
50 Mbps6.25 MB/s10 MbpsGood4Social Media / Content Creation
100 Mbps12.5 MB/s11 - 12 MbpsVery Good5High-Graphic Gaming on Consoles
200 Mbps25 MB/s20 - 25 MbpsDecent10HD Streaming on Multiple Devices
300 Mbps37.5 MB/s32 MbpsBetter15Home Use with a Few Smart Gadgets
400 Mbps50 MB/s35 MbpsFast20Small Offices / Small Businesses
500 Mbps62.5 MB/s60 MbpsVery fast25Modern Homes with Lots of Gadgets
Gigabit125 MB/s100 - 120 MbpsHigh-Speed30Hotels, Hostels, or Office Premises

What Affects My Internet Speed?

Let’s take a look at the factors that can affect your internet speed.

  • Type of Connection
  • Internet Plan
  • Router and Modem
  • Number of Devices
  • Bandwidth Usage

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Type of Connection

The type of internet connection you have significantly impacts your speed. Fiber optic connections offer the fastest speeds, making them ideal for high-speed needs. Cable provides a reliable middle ground, while DSL works for basic use. Satellite is often a last resort for remote areas where other options are unavailable.

👉 Learn about the Different Types of Internet >>

Internet Plan

The speed of your internet also depends on the plan you pay for. Higher-tier plans offer faster speeds and more bandwidth. If you experience slow speeds, upgrading your plan can make a significant difference. Assessing your internet usage can help determine if you need a more robust plan.

👉 Compare the Best Internet Providers >>

Router and Modem

The quality and type of your router and modem play a key role in your internet speed. Older devices may not support higher speeds offered by your internet plan. Upgrading to a modern router and modem can improve connection stability and speed. Ensuring your equipment is up-to-date helps maintain optimal performance.

👉 Browse the Best Routers and Best Modems >>

Number of Devices

The number of devices connected to your internet affects overall speed. Each device uses a portion of your bandwidth. When multiple devices are streaming, gaming, or downloading simultaneously, your speed can decrease. Managing the number of connected devices and their activities helps maintain better performance.

👉 Browse Fast Gaming Routers >>

Bandwidth Usage

Different activities use varying amounts of bandwidth. Streaming high-definition videos, online gaming, and large downloads require more bandwidth compared to browsing the web or checking emails.

High-bandwidth activities can slow down your connection, especially if multiple devices engage in these activities at the same time. Prioritizing activities and managing bandwidth usage can enhance your internet speed.

👉 Fix Slow Internet Issues >>

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