What internet speed do you actually need?

A rough guide (download speed)

• 1–2 people, browsing, email, HD streaming: 50–100 Mbps
• A family streaming on a few TVs, plus video calls: 150–300 Mbps
• Gamers, 4K on several screens, a home business: 300–500 Mbps
• Heavy uploading, creators, lots of users: 1 Gbps (fibre)

What uses what

• HD video: about 5 Mbps
• 4K video: about 15–25 Mbps
• Video call: 2–4 Mbps each way
• Game downloads: as much as you can get

Don't forget upload speed

Working from home, video calls and cloud backups need decent upload speed. Fibre plans usually have equal upload and download; cable plans often have much less upload.

Before you upgrade

Run a speed test on a cable next to the router. If you already get close to your plan's speed there but it's slow around the house, better Wi-Fi will help more than a faster plan.