How Much Bandwidth Do I Need for Streaming?

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Confused about streaming quality? Learn exactly how much bandwidth (in Mbps) you need for flawless SD, HD, and 4K Ultra HD streaming, plus why fiber internet is the ultimate solution for multiple devices.

What is Bandwidth?

Bandwidth is essentially how much data your internet connection can handle at once. It’s measured in megabits per second (Mbps) or gigabits per second (Gbps). The higher your bandwidth, the more information your connection can send and receive at any given time, which directly affects how smoothly you can stream your favorite shows and movies.

How Does Bandwidth Affect Streaming TV?

When it comes to streaming TV, bandwidth plays a crucial role in determining the quality and smoothness of your viewing experience. Here’s how it helps:

1. Quality of Video

The higher your bandwidth, the higher the video resolution you can enjoy. Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ adjust video quality based on your available bandwidth:

  • SD (Standard Definition): 3–4 Mbps
  • HD (High Definition): 5–8 Mbps
  • 4K Ultra HD: 15–25 Mbps

If you want crystal-clear 4K, you’ll need a strong, steady connection.

2. Buffering and Load Times

Nobody likes waiting for a video to load. With enough bandwidth, your device can buffer quickly, which means less waiting and more watching, without frustrating interruptions.

3. Multiple Devices

In a household with multiple devices streaming simultaneously, adequate bandwidth ensures each device can stream content smoothly. If someone’s watching a movie in 4K, another person is on a video call, and kids are gaming online, you’ll need higher bandwidth to keep everything running smoothly.

4. Consistency and Stability

A reliable, high-bandwidth connection gives you a smoother streaming experience, especially during peak hours when many people in your neighborhood are online. This is where fiber internet really shines — offering a more stable connection compared to traditional cable or DSL.

Why Fiber Internet is Best for Streaming

Fiber internet delivers lightning-fast speeds, symmetrical uploads and downloads, and unmatched reliability. That means:

  • Enough bandwidth to handle streaming, gaming, and video calls all at once
  • Multiple 4K streams at once, with no lag
  • Instant start times and no buffering

Why Fiber Internet is Best for Streaming

With Empire Access Fiber Internet, you’ll always have the bandwidth you need for the ultimate streaming experience. Explore our fiber internet plans today!

Sign Up and Save!

Receive a $100 Amazon Gift Card when you sign up for our enhanced or elite fiber internet plans or a $50 Amazon Gift Card when you sign up for the essential fiber internet plan.

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Limited-Time Offer! 

$100 Amazon Gift Card for enhanced & elite fiber internet plans

$50 Amazon Gift Card for the essentials fiber internet plan

 

Online offer only. 

 

*Gift cards will be processed via email and distributed to eligible Empire Access customers who are active and in good standing after 3 months of service. Must be placing a new serviceable order to receive the promotion- pending installations are not eligible. The Amazon Gift Card can not be transferred as cash value. Order must be placed between 6/6/25 – 6/15/25 11:59 PM EST.