Compare: How Much Internet Speed Do You Really Need At Home?

Internet speed is one of the key things you should know before getting a home broadband plan. Unlike other factors like price, location and bandwidth, determining the right internet speed for your needs isn’t very straightforward. There are plenty of factors like household size, common websites accessed, hours of internet usage, and number of devices, among others, that need to be considered. 

Finding the right broadband speed is a bit tricky — that’s why we’re here to help! Find out the internet speed you really need right here.

What is an internet speed?

Coming from the name itself, an internet speed refers to how fast your internet connection is. It’s usually divided by two factors: download and upload speeds. Download speeds determine how quick your broadband can process content such as images, videos, and texts. On the other hand, upload speeds determine how quick your broadband can send content. 

These speeds are usually measured by megabits per second (Mbps), or gigabits per second (Gbps) in some cases. Of course, the higher numbers for both these speeds, the better. It’s important to note that download speeds are usually higher than upload speeds as loading online content needs more data.

Use our internet speed test tool, powered by Ookla, to know your internet speeds.

What are the key factors to finding the right internet speed?

As mentioned, knowing the right internet speeds involves considering a lot of factors. Here are the most important considerations to know if you have the right broadband speeds.

Household size

It’s one of the most important determining factors for your internet speeds,  but it’s one of the most neglected. Generally, the more people using the internet, the higher internet speeds you need. However, it still depends on what these people are using the internet for.

Number of devices

In line with the household size, the number of devices connected to the internet is also an important factor. How many smartphones are simultaneously connected to the internet? Do you have broadband-demanding gaming consoles like the PS5 or Xbox Series X?

Read: The Most Anticipated Games for PS5 and Xbox Series X

Frequency of connecting to the internet

How many hours a day are these devices connected to the internet? The difference is night and day between connecting your PS5 or Xbox for one or eight hours a day! It’s essential to time your internet usage to get more comprehensive internet speeds.

Streaming needs

For most Kiwis, one of the most common online activities is streaming. How many devices are streaming at once? Does your household stream in 4k? Which websites or applications do you use to stream? These are important questions to know the right internet speeds for you.

How much does a typical family need?

In general, most households consist an average of four members. Here’s a breakdown on the common tasks these members do on the internet, and how much internet speed is needed for it.

Source: Otelco

Use a broadband comparison tool in New Zealand!

This breakdown may differ from your needs — and that’s normal! After all, no household or even individual have the same internet needs. A comprehensive comparison tool filters your needs including location, number of people in the household, available connections in your address, term contracts, and extra features, among others!

To get more comprehensive results, use CompareBear’s comparison tool!  See tailored results in just a minute!