Speeds for everyday tasks
Streaming services publish their own recommendations. Netflix, for example, suggests around 5 Mbps for HD and 15 Mbps for 4K Ultra HD per stream. Add these up for everything your household does at the same time.
| Activity | What matters |
|---|---|
| Browsing & email | Very little bandwidth |
| HD streaming | A few Mbps per stream |
| 4K streaming | Around 15 Mbps or more per stream |
| Video calls | Steady upload speed and low latency |
| Online gaming | Low latency (ping) more than raw speed |
| Game & file downloads | Download speed: faster saves real time |
| Cloud backup, streaming, creators | Upload speed |
Don’t forget upload speed
Most deals advertise download speed. But video calls, sending large files, cloud photo backups and live streaming all use upload. Part fibre (FTTC) and many cable plans have much slower uploads than downloads. Many full fibre plans offer much higher upload speeds.
Your wi-fi may be the real bottleneck
- Put the router somewhere central and high, not in a cupboard.
- Use a wired connection for TVs, consoles and desks near the router.
- In bigger homes, a mesh wi-fi system often fixes “slow broadband”.
- Older devices may not support the latest wi-fi standards.
Check the speed you’re promised
In the UK, providers signed up to Ofcom’s broadband speeds code must give you a personalised speed estimate and a minimum guaranteed speed before you buy. If your speed falls below the minimum and the provider can’t fix it, you may be able to leave without penalty. In the US, check the provider’s FCC broadband label for typical speeds.
Last updated: 14 October 2026
