How much internet speed do I need? Video, calls, gaming and work
Updated: 11 October 2026
These are rules of thumb for one person or device. Add them up for everyone who uses the internet at the same time.
| Activity | Download | Upload |
|---|---|---|
| Browsing, WhatsApp, email | 1 Mbps | 0.5 Mbps |
| Video at 480p (phone) | 2 Mbps | – |
| HD video (720p–1080p) | 5 Mbps | – |
| Video call or online class | 3 Mbps | 3 Mbps |
| 4K video | 25 Mbps | – |
| Online gaming | 5 Mbps | 1 Mbps, plus ping under 60 ms |
| Work from home with big files | 25 Mbps | 10 Mbps |
For a household
A family of four streaming HD on two TVs while two people are on video calls needs about 5 + 5 + 3 + 3 = 16 Mbps down and 6 Mbps up at that moment. A 40–50 Mbps plan leaves room for downloads and updates; 100 Mbps or more suits homes with 4K TVs or many devices.
Ping matters as much as speed for calls and games: see ping and jitter.