Find the speed you need with our internet speed quiz

Q: Should I use a bandwidth calculator or a speed test?

Both! A bandwidth calculator can tell you how much data you are able to upload or download to your computer. A speed test can help you determine how fast that data is being downloaded and uploaded.

Don’t know what internet speed you need? Get an internet speed recommendation from Allconnect’s broadband experts with our speed quiz. We’ll ask questions based on your internet activities and needs to suggest the best speed for your digital lifestyle.

How we calculate the internet speed that you need

Activities – Certain internet activities require more speed than others. For example, heavy gaming requires more speed than simply browsing
Number of devices – The more devices you have connected, the more speed you need to support each device’s internet activity
Address – We ask for your address to select the best deals for your home and connect you to internet providers in your area

What internet speed do I need?

The internet speed you need depends on your daily internet activities and the number of devices connected to your network.

According to Ookla, the average download speed in the U.S. is 176.75 Mbps, but the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recommends that speeds of only 12 – 25 Mbps are sufficient for families with multiple users or for regular streaming. However, this may vary depending on your home’s needs and devices.

Internet speed	Number of users	Type of activity
5 – 20 Mbps	1 – 2 users	Emails, regular website browsing, music streaming, SD video streaming
20 – 40 Mbps	1 – 3 users	Working from home using light apps, streaming music, online gaming, 4K video streaming, HD video streaming
40 – 100 Mbps	2 – 4 users	Multigaming, 4K video streaming, using home security, using smart appliances, downloading large files
100 – 500 Mbps	2 – 5 users	Running a home office, using creative apps or software, 4K video streaming, UHD streaming on multiple screens, fast file download of large files
500 – 1,000 Mbps	5+ users	Running a home office, using creative apps or software, 4K video streaming, using home security, using smart home devices, multiuser/multi-device functions

What is a good internet speed?

A “good” internet speed depends on your internet activities and the number of connected devices in your home.

The FCC’s minimum broadband speed standard is 100 Mbps of download speed and 20 Mbps of upload speed, enough to support a small household. The right internet speed for you will depend on your internet activities and the number of connected devices in your home. It’s safe to assume that you’ll need more than 100 Mbps if you’re a heavy internet user.

Enter your ZIP code to view internet plans available near you

How to boost your internet speed

If you’re experiencing a slow internet connection, there are a few things you can try:

Upgrading your equipment
Reset your equipment
Add a Wi-Fi extender to your network to extend your Wi-Fi coverage area
Upgrade your security and optimize your router settings
Upgrade your internet plan

Learn more about how to boost your Wi-Fi signal.

Take an internet speed test to find out your actual speeds

Don’t know what internet speeds you’re actually getting? Take our free internet speed test.

Your speed test results:

Download Speeds

888 Mbps

Upload Speeds

88 Mbps

Need more for the price?

Try these helpful hacks to improve your internet speed. Or if you just want more bang for your buck, check out providers near you with more speed for the price. Either way, we’ll help you find what you need.

View providers near me

Rather chat? Give us a call: (844) 451-2720

Pro Tip: For best results, use an Ethernet cord to connect your router or modem directly to your device before you run the test.

Internet speed FAQs

How much internet speed do I need?

Take our internet speed quiz to find out what speed you need. We recommend at least 100 Mbps (per the FCC), but more if you have a larger household or participate in heavy internet activities.

What are ‘Mbps’?

Mbps stands for megabits per second and is the way we measure internet speed. The higher the number before the “Mbps,” the faster your internet speed is.

Should I use a bandwidth calculator or a speed test?

Both! A bandwidth calculator can tell you how much data you are able to upload or download to your computer. A speed test can help you determine how fast that data is being downloaded and uploaded.

What type of internet is best for me?

The best type of internet is usually a fiber connection, providing lightning-fast, symmetrical upload and download speeds. Fiber availability is more limited than other technology types, however. Cable internet is your next best option, with wider availability and sufficient speeds. If you live in a more rural region, check out fixed wireless or satellite providers in your area.

We value your feedback

Was this page helpful?

We value your feedback

We’re glad! Tell us what helped most on this page.

We value your feedback

Was this page helpful?

The page didn’t have what I was looking for.

This page is incorrect or outdated.

This page didn’t help me choose a product or service.

Other (please specify):

Type your response here

Thanks for your feedback!

Your insight helps, and we’ll do our best to improve your experience.

Written by:

Camryn Smith

As one of Allconnect’s writers, Camryn Smith helps consumers navigate complex home internet services and broadband technology through her helpful content. Using her expertise in the broadband space, Camryn edu… Read more

Edited by:

Hannah Whatley

Editor I

Read bio