What Internet Speed Do I Need for Netflix?

Catherine McNally
Apr 03, 2026
Icon Time To Read2 min read

The minimum required speed for streaming Netflix is 3Mbps for SD (standard definition) video quality. Netflix recommends at least 5Mbps for HD quality and 15Mbps for Ultra HD or 4K quality.

And while 15 Mbps might be enough for watching Netflix, remember that that's enough internet speed for only watching Netflix. So you'll need faster speed to cover any other connected devices or internet users in your home.

We recommend grabbing at least 50 Mbps download speeds if it's just you and maybe one other person using the internet. As for families, we think 100 Mbps or more download speed is better.

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What are Mbps?
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Your internet service’s download speed is measured in megabits per second. Anything above 100Mbps and above is considered high-speed internet. Some broadband internet providers still sell packages with speeds lower than that, but unless you’re just browsing the web and checking email, you probably need faster speeds.

Netflix internet speed requirements

The baseline internet speed requirements for Netflix aren't ginormous—unless you want to stream in 4K.

Netflix internet speed requirements
Video quality
Netflix recommends

SD (480p)

3 Mbps

HD (720p)

5 Mbps

Ultra HD/4K (2160p)

15 Mbps

But like we said, we recommend faster download speeds than what Netflix recommends.

That's because you'll likely have other devices (like cell phones and home security systems) using the internet connection at the same time you're streaming Netflix. Not to mention other people too. The last thing you want is for your home security camera to lag out or for your kiddo's Netflix app playing Paw Patrol to buffer, right?

Netflix internet speed recommendations

We recommend an internet plan with at least 50 Mbps download speeds if you enjoy streaming Netflix. And maybe even higher if you want HD streaming. Typically, the best internet speed for streaming video is around that speed, because this ensures that your connected devices and one other person can get online and not flip a table over maddeningly slow internet speeds while you watch Schitt's Creek.

If you've got a larger family or multiple devices, we'd say go with a minimum speed of 100 Mbps download speeds or more for good internet speed.

And as for recommendations, well, we have a few for the best internet providers for streaming.

Google Fiber—now GFiber

GFiber, previously Google Fiber, is Reviews.org's pick for best overall internet, and that includes streaming. GFiber offers unbelievably fast speeds at bargain prices. It's also extremely reliable due to its completely fiber-optic network. Our only criticism is that Google's fiber service is only available to a fraction of the US, but that's bound to change as the service expands.

4.9 out of 5 stars
4.9
Download Speeds
1000-8000 Mbps
Upload Speeds
25-3000 Mbps
Data Cap
Unlimited
Starting from$70/mo
Plus taxes and fees. Upload/download speed and device streaming claims are based on maximum wired speeds. Actual Internet speeds are not guaranteed and may vary based on factors such as hardware and software limitations, latency, packet loss, etc.

AT&T Fiber

If you can't get GFiber, AT&T Fiber makes an excellent alternative. It's the most widely available fiber service in the U.S., and although it doesn't offer the fastest speeds in the country, it offers some lower speeds at cheaper prices.

4.3 out of 5 stars
4.3
Download Speeds
300-5000 Mbps
Upload Speeds
300-5000 Mbps
Data Cap
Unlimited
Starting from$35/mo
Price after $5/mo Autopay & Paperless bill discount (w/in 2 bills). Plus taxes $ fees. Limited availability. May not be available in your area.

T-Mobile 5G Home Internet

T-Mobile 5G Home Internet is available just about anywhere in the country, and it has some of the fastest speeds you can get from a 5G provider. Although it doesn't provide the physical connection of a fiber or cable provider, it's surprisingly stable for its internet type.

4.6 out of 5 stars
4.6
Download Speeds
354-498 Mbps
Upload Speeds
55-55 Mbps
Data Cap
Unlimited
Starting from$50/mo
w/AutoPay. Guarantee exclusions like taxes and fees apply.

Spectrum Internet

Spectrum is our favorite cable provider, and for good reason. It offers two different plans at two different price points to meet different needs. While not everyone loves Spectrum, overall, it's an excellent option for anyone who loves streamed TV.

3.9 out of 5 stars
3.9
Download Speeds
100-7000 Mbps
Upload Speeds
4-7000 Mbps
Data Cap
Unlimited
Starting from$30/mo
Limited time offer; subject to change; valid to qualified residential customers who have not subscribed to any services within the previous 30 days and who have no outstanding obligation to Charter.

Xfinity Internet

Xfinity is available almost nationwide, and its prices are competitive. You'll easily find a well-priced 300Mbps plan for $40 per month. 

3.8 out of 5 stars
3.8
Download Speeds
300-2200 Mbps
Upload Speeds
100-250 Mbps
Data Cap
Unlimited
Starting from$45/mo
Catherine McNally
Written by
Catherine has a degree in journalism and an MBA, and has spent the last 10+ years writing everything from Okinawa travel guides to stories on Medium. She’s been online since AOL CDs were a thing and is an unapologetic PC gamer. She believes the internet is a necessity, not a luxury, and writes reviews and guides to help everyone stay connected. You can also find her on Twitter: @CMReviewsIt.

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