The way we consume media and entertainment has changed drastically over the years — from radio programming to the evolution of television, and most recently, consuming video content with the help of the internet.

The internet has changed the way we communicate, the way we work, and the way we watch television, and movies, and connect with friends and other networks. One of the most significant changes to our new way of life is the introduction of streaming — which is any live or recorded media content that is delivered to computers and mobile devices through the internet and then played back in real-time.

Streaming has become arguably the most popular way Canadians consume their favourite content, with more streaming channels becoming available each year. That’s where finding the best internet for your streaming activities comes into the equation.

Without quality internet connections, the opportunity for clear, fast uploads is practically impossible. In this guide, we’ll explore the question of what is a good internet speed for streaming, and the available options you can take advantage of with your chosen home internet provider.

What is Considered a Good Internet Speed?

A quality internet speed for streaming in Canada is often dependent on several factors, including:

• The number of devices using the internet simultaneously
• How many users are streaming Netflix or another streaming platform at one time
• Is anyone engaging in multiplayer online games?
• Do you regularly need quality internet speeds to stream in 4K?

These questions will help you determine if your current internet is meeting your needs, and what you need going forward to get the most out of your streaming experience.

What Internet Connections are Available to You?

Before you can determine the best internet speed for streaming, it’s important to understand the choices at your disposal. Each offers its own internet speeds for streaming, browsing, gaming, and downloading, and will ultimately depend on factors including your location and budget.

DSL

DSL— digital subscriber line — is one of the most common internet connections used in both homes and businesses. This high-speed connection works through an existing telephone line since telephone lines can handle thousands of frequencies — which means you can still access the internet speed needed for streaming and other internet-centric functions.

Cable

Cable internet uses the infrastructure of cable television to provide internet access to its end user. This means that the network used to access your television channels is also providing its recommended internet speed for streaming online content. Many Canadians use cable internet because it provides a fast, reliable connection with proximity to internet service providers in Ontario that won’t hinder any connections.

Broadband

Broadband, in its simplest terms, is a high-speed internet connection that is always available. It uses high-capacity transmission technologies to transfer data and video across vast distances at a quick and reliable speed. Users can access the information and minimum internet speed for streaming, browsing social media, and connecting with friends online.

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is in nearly every corner of the country as one of the most accessible ways we’re able to find the internet speeds we need for 4K streaming or however we’re streaming our favourite content. Wi-Fi uses radio waves to transfer data from a wireless router to any Wi-Fi-capable device, including tablets, laptops, and smartphones.

Understanding the most commonly used types of internet and how to check your internet speed will help you achieve a better understanding when looking for the best internet speeds for streaming in Canada.

How You Stream

How you stream will ultimately impact the type of internet speed you need for streaming-related activities. Let’s take a look at three of the most common uses and what the minimum speed is for streaming each respective type of content.

Recorded Content

Whether you’re watching the latest television series or feature film, recorded content is the bulk of media consumed using streaming services. Netflix, in particular, recommends 5 Mbps to stream their full HD content and that a data rate of 25 Mbps— megabits per second — is the ideal internet speed for 4K streaming.

If you plan on watching recorded content on multiple devices, you’ll need more bandwidth — the best internet speed for 4K streaming using multiple devices is approximately 200 Mbps.

Live Streaming

If you like to consume live concerts, conferences, or sporting events, you need an internet provider that can deliver the right internet speed for streaming live content. The recommended upload speed falls anywhere between 672 Kbps and 61.5 Mbps. You also want to ensure you have low latency, which will help ensure you can stream live content with lagging or buffering.

Gaming

When it comes to gaming online, the best internet speed for streaming on Twitch or another gaming website is one that can ensure a high-quality immersive experience. Gamers tend to require a higher internet speed, primarily if they’re engaging with multiple players online. The range falls between six and eight Mbps — enough to ensure fans are able to experience the full capabilities of the platform without any interference.

Can You Have Too Much Internet Speed When Streaming?

In some cases, there is such a thing as too much internet speed.

The goal of finding the best internet speed for streaming is to find the sweet spot between too little and too much. This will ultimately depend on the square footage of your home or office and whether or not you’re paying more than necessary for high-speed internet.

You want to ensure your internet service provider isn’t trying to sell you on a plan designed for a household of four or more, when you’re a single individual in a condominium. You can still secure unlimited, high-speed internet, but a plan that is designed for your space and not someone else’s.

Choosing an Internet Service Provider

At Eyesurf, we’re proud to be one of the top internet providers in Toronto and across Canada, specializing in quality high-speed internet at affordable prices.

We know Canadians are streaming content more than ever. That’s why we’re proud to offer unlimited data and the internet for 4K live streaming, gaming and more. We offer contract-free monthly plans that you can feel good about.

Never compromise quality for costs. Learn how Eyesurf can help you find the recommended internet for streaming your favourite content, so you never have to worry about missing a moment of the action.

So whether you’re looking for internet providers in Ottawa, Halifax, or Vancouver, Eyesurf has you covered.

Contact us today to learn which internet plan is right for you.