01Use practical headroom
A single HD stream often works with around 10 Mbps of reliably available bandwidth, while a 4K stream commonly needs at least 25 Mbps. These are practical starting points rather than guarantees because bitrate varies by source.
Add headroom for every other person, television, download, video call or cloud backup using the connection. A 100 Mbps line can still buffer if the viewing device has a weak Wi-Fi signal or the network is saturated.
- Allow about 10 Mbps or more for one HD stream
- Allow about 25 Mbps or more for one 4K stream
- Add capacity for other active devices
- Prioritise stability over a single speed-test peak
02Improve Wi-Fi before buying a faster plan
Move the router into an open position, reduce the distance to the television and use a modern Wi-Fi band supported by both devices. Mesh systems can help in larger homes, but poorly positioned mesh nodes can repeat a weak signal.
Ethernet removes many wireless variables. When a television or streaming device is close enough to the router, a wired connection is usually the simplest stability upgrade.
03Test during real viewing hours
Run a speed test on the viewing device or in the same room, then test actual playback during the evening when your household and internet provider are busiest. A midday test on a phone beside the router does not represent a television two rooms away at peak time.