How Much Broadband Speed Do I Need for My Home?

Speed is a key factor when selecting the right broadband package. The faster your internet speed, the more seamlessly you can game, stream TV and films, and make video calls without lag or disconnection.

At the same time, there’s a balance to be found. If your broadband connection is too slow, you’ll face a frustrating online experience. But if you opt for a package with more speed than you need, you might be paying for bandwidth you’re not actually using.

So, the question of "how much internet speed do I need?" is worth considering. The faster the speed, the higher the cost, so it’s important to find the right broadband speed for your needs.

In this guide, we’ll explore broadband speeds, what they mean, and real-world examples of how much speed you might require.

What is a Good Internet Speed for You?

How do you know what internet speed is right for you? First, you need to understand the different broadband options available:

• ADSL: A standard broadband connection using copper cables, with maximum speeds of around 24Mbps, though average speeds are often lower.
  
  
• Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC): A mix of fibre and copper, offering speeds up to 80Mbps, though actual speeds vary based on distance from the cabinet.
  
  
• Fibre to the Premises (FTTP): A full fibre broadband connection, delivering speeds between 100Mbps and 900Mbps, with even faster gigabit broadband options becoming more widely available.
  

Not everyone can access all these options. While FTTP is available to around 70% of UK households, that number is increasing. Meanwhile, ADSL and FTTC are more widely available, but ADSL is being phased out by 2027 as the UK transitions away from copper-based broadband networks.

Is Your Current Internet Speed Fast Enough?

One way to determine if you need a faster broadband package is to assess your current experience. If streaming services buffer, online gaming lags, or video calls drop, your broadband speed may not be sufficient.

However, slow speeds aren’t always caused by the broadband provider. Factors like the placement of your WiFi router, or the age of your devices can also impact performance.

To check your current broadband speed, run a broadband speed test. Try testing on different devices and in multiple areas of your home. If your connection speed is strong in some areas but weak in others, a WiFi extender may help boost your signal.

If your speed is consistently slow across all devices, it may be time to upgrade to a faster broadband service.

How Much Broadband Speed Do You Need? Real World Examples

The ideal broadband speed depends on how you use the internet. Here are some general guidelines:

• Basic Usage (Emails & Web Browsing): 15Mbps or lower is usually enough for a small household with minimal internet needs.
  
  
• Streaming & Light Gaming: Households that stream HD video, browse online, and use a few devices at the same time should consider speeds between 15-50Mbps.
  
  
• 4K Streaming & Online Gaming: A family that streams 4K video, shops online, and games simultaneously will need around 50-100Mbps.
  
  
• Smart Homes & Large Households: If multiple devices are streaming, gaming online, and running smart home technology, speeds of 100Mbps+ will ensure smooth performance.
  

These figures serve as a rough guide, as individual needs vary. If you mainly browse the internet but occasionally want to binge-watch Netflix in 4K, you may want a plan with higher speeds.

It’s also important to think ahead. Will you be purchasing a 4K TV, gaming console, or other data-intensive devices? If you work from home, you may need faster upload speeds for video conferencing and large file transfers.

Maybe your kids are reaching an age when they’re likely to spend more time on more data-hungry applications, for education as well as entertainment. Maybe you’re moving to a job that requires you to work from home. It all needs to be taken into account. 

Getting the Right Broadband Speed for Your Home

The best broadband package is one that meets your needs now and accommodates future upgrades in usage.

If your current broadband speed is meeting your needs, there’s no reason to switch. But if you’re struggling with buffering, lag, or connection issues, you might need to upgrade to a faster broadband deal.

When comparing broadband providers, consider factors such as reliability, customer service, and whether a broadband speed guarantee is offered. Running a broadband speed test will also help you find out what speed you're currently getting and determine if an upgrade is necessary.

Ultimately, finding the right broadband speed ensures you’re not overpaying for unused bandwidth while still getting a fast enough connection for everything you need.