95% of Internet users today don’t need speeds higher than 100Mb/sec. Could you be saving money by downgrading?

Major internet service providers (ISPs) often push gigabit (1 GB/sec) internet plans, claiming it’s necessary for a smooth online experience. But the truth is, for most users, it’s overkill. Here’s a breakdown of the speeds you actually need for common activities and a more realistic recommendation for most households.

Speed Requirements by Activity:

SD Streaming (Netflix): Standard Definition (SD) streaming requires a minimum of 3 Mbps download speed. That’s far less than 1 GB!

HD Streaming: High definition (HD) streaming bumps the requirement to 5 Mbps for a good experience and 10 Mbps for flawless viewing. Super HD can take up to 25 Mb/sec.

Video Conferencing: Platforms like Zoom recommend 1.5 Mbps for sending and 3.0 Mbps for receiving video during calls.

High-Intensity Gaming: Competitive online games can require 25 Mbps to 35 Mbps for smooth gameplay, but most function well at 10 Mbps.

Business Applications: Downloading documents and emails requires minimal speed (around 1-5 Mbps). Cloud storage and complex applications might benefit from 10 Mbps.

The 100 Mbps Sweet Spot:

Considering these real-world needs, a download speed of 100 Mbps is more than sufficient for 95% of users. This allows for seamless HD streaming and comfortable video conferencing, even in most online gaming. It also tackles everyday tasks with ease.

Why Not Gigabits?

While gigabit speeds offer incredible download times, the benefits are marginal for most users. Uploading large files or running professional applications that handle massive data transfers might benefit, but the extra cost isn’t justified for everyday internet activities.

The Takeaway:

Don’t fall prey to marketing tactics. By understanding your internet usage and choosing a plan with realistic speed (around 100 Mbps), you can save money and still enjoy a smooth online experience. 

Pro tip: Oasis Broadband can show you your peak internet usage so that you know you’re buying the right amount. Just open a ticket or give us a call!

Cellular performance drops quickly when other internet providers go down or roads are jammed because everyone switches to it as a backup.