What is the strength of your connection? How much bandwidth will your ISP offer? What is the average latency? Let’s find out about what is the best internet for gaming!
It’s undeniable that the internet has changed the way we game. Now you can always keep up with your favorite MMOs, play RPGs without waiting in line at the store, and find new games to try out. Sometimes it’s hard to remember what life was like before the internet.
One of the most significant changes is how fast and smooth gaming has become thanks to online gaming. This has led to an increase in competitive gaming with eSports gaining popularity year after year.
At this point, there are so many different types of internet, it can be hard to choose the best one for gaming. Luckily, there are a few factors that you need to take into consideration with whichever Internet plan you’re considering.
Best Internet for Gaming
For many people, the Internet is a necessity. It provides access to Facebook, YouTube, games, and streaming services like Netflix. The best internet for gaming is seen in the improved download and upload speeds, to accommodate the high bandwidth, demanded in modern games. Internet service providers vary in quality and price to provide a service tailored to needs.
High-speed internet is essential in this day and age. Yet when deciding on an internet service provider, one has to take into consideration the cost of the internet equipment, installation fees, monthly charges, and more.
Video games allow people to be transported into an immersive and interactive world where they can experience new and exciting challenges. As a result, the need for high-speed internet has skyrocketed.
There are many different providers to choose from for someone looking for high-speed internet. Some well-known There are many different providers to choose from for someone looking for high-speed internet.
Some well-known companies are Spectrum, Xfinity, Verizon FiOS, Cox, and Frontier. These companies always provide the best options for high-speed internet for gaming.
It is important to have a fast and reliable internet connection for gaming. This article is going to discuss some of the best internet providers for gaming.
The speed you need for gaming
When we play games online, the first thing we need to consider is the speed of the connection. Most online games require a minimum internet speed for smooth and uninterrupted gameplay.
There are two different types of speeds that you should be aware of: download and upload speeds. Download speed is how fast data can move from your device to the server. Upload speed is how fast data can move from the server back to your device.
Since the introduction of the PS4 and Xbox One, players have been looking for a way to stream their favorite games from home. What they have found is that streaming and playing online games requires a fast connection to produce a smooth gameplay experience.
If you want your games to be playable and enjoyable you must have a high download speed and a high upload speed. PS4 and Xbox recommend 3 Mbps download speed and 1 Mbps upload speed which is what most ISPs offer.
Best Internet for Gaming
The internet is more than just a way to send files back and forth, it’s the lifeblood of gaming. We analyzed internet speed, latency, and availability to find the best ISPs for gaming. Findings from our tests show that the top three providers are Xfinity, Verizon Fios, and AT&T Fiber. Let’s take a closer look.
Verizon Fios Home Internet
- Price range: $49.99 – $89.99 per month
- Speed range: 307.33 Mbps-939.67 Mbps
- Key features: No data caps, fast upload speeds
- Special offer: 12 months of free Disney+ (new customers)
Verizon Fios is a top choice for gamers, offering ultra-fast fiber-optic connections. It’s popular worldwide for its low latency for competitive online gaming. With symmetrical download and upload speeds, Fios also excels at streaming and large file uploads. Their pricing is competitive, and they often have special promotions for new customers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Best for low latency | Limited availability |
| Symmetrical upload and download speeds | Potential equipment fees |
| No data caps | |
| Competitive Pricing | |
| Free Disney+ for 12 months |
Google Fiber
- Price range: $70 – $100 per month
- Speed range: 1 Gbps – 2 Gbps
- Key features: 1TB Google Drive storage, no data caps
- Special offer: N/A
Google Fiber offers lightning-fast gigabit speeds, perfect for gamers who need a lag-free gaming experience. In case of reliability, Google Fiber boasts excellent uptime and consistent speeds. With 1TB of Google Drive storage included, it’s also a great option for cloud storage enthusiasts.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Best for gigabit speeds | Limited availability |
| 1TB Google Drive storage included | No special offers |
| Reliable and consistent performance | |
| No data caps | |
| Excellent customer support |
AT&T Fiber
- Price range: $55 – $100 per month
- Speed range: 300 Mbps – 2 Gbps
- Key features: Unlimited data, HBO Max included (select plans)
- Special offer: $200 Visa Reward Card (Limited)
AT&T Fiber is a strong option for gamers, providing high-speed connections and unlimited data. As it comes with the added bonus of HBO Max on select plans, it’s a perfect pick for streaming enthusiasts. Their special offers include a $200 Visa Reward Card, which makes it even more attractive for new customers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Best for streaming | Limited availability |
| High-speed connections | Price increase after 12 months |
| Unlimited data | |
| HBO Max included (select plans) | |
| $200 Visa Reward Card (select plans) |
Comcast Xfinity
- Price range: $19.99 – $80 per month
- Speed range: 50 Mbps – 2 Gbps
- Key features: No contract plans, flexible options
- Special offer: $100 Visa Prepaid Card (Limited)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Best for flexibility | Not the best for latency |
| Wide range of speed options | Possible data cap depending on the plan |
| No-contract plans available | |
| $100 Visa Prepaid Card (select plans) | |
| Extensive coverage |
Comcast Xfinity is a versatile choice for gamers, offering a wide range of speed options to fit various budgets. Their no-contract plans provide flexibility for those who don’t want to commit long-term. While not the best for latency, Xfinity is still a reliable option for most gaming needs.
Spectrum
- Price range: $49.99 – $180 per month
- Speed range: 200 Mbps – 940 Mbps
- Key features: No data caps, free modem
- Special offer: Free Peacock Premium for 12 months
Spectrum is a popular choice for gamers, offering a solid balance between speed, price, and performance. With no data caps and a free modem, Spectrum is a cost-effective option for gaming and streaming. The added benefit of free antivirus software as well as Free Peacock Premium makes it an all-around solid pick.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Best for streaming with it reliable latency | Limited fiber availability |
| No data caps | Customer service concerns |
| Free modem makes internet usage experience integrated | |
| Free antivirus software with some plans | |
| Solid speed range |
Cox Communications
- Price range: $50 – $99.99 per month
- Speed range: 100 Mbps – 1 Gbps
- Key features: Panoramic Wi-Fi, Cox Elite Gamer (additional cost)
- Special offer: $100 Visa Prepaid Card (Limited)
Cox Communications offers a variety of speed options for gamers. The most interesting service is the Panoramic Wi-Fi system to ensure strong connections throughout your home. With the optional Cox Elite Gamer add-on, gamers can enjoy optimized performance and reduced latency. Keep in mind that this feature comes at an additional cost.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Best for Wi-Fi coverage in large areas | Elite Gamer costs extra |
| Variety of speed options for different level gamers | Data caps on some plans |
| Panoramic Wi-Fi system for the ultimate gaming experience | |
| Cox Elite Gamer is available | |
| $100 Visa Prepaid Card (select plans) |
CenturyLink Fiber
- Price range: $30-$50 per month
- Speed range: 940 Mbps
- Key features: Price for Life guarantee, no contract
- Special offer: N/A
CenturyLink Fiber offers a simple, straightforward plan with speeds up to 940 Mbps. With their Price for Life guarantee and no contracts, gamers can enjoy reliable, high-speed internet without worrying about price hikes or long-term commitments.
It’s a great option for those who want hassle-free gaming and streaming experience. No high ping issue was found during gaming like multiplayer gaming in most cases.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Best for price stability | Limited availability |
| High-speed fiber connection | No special offers |
| Price for Life guarantee | |
| No contract | |
| Straightforward plan |
Frontier Communications
- Price range: $49.99 – $99.99 per month
- Speed range: 50 Mbps – 940 Mbps
- Key features: No data caps, no contracts
- Special offer: Amazon Prime for 12 months (Limited)
Frontier Communications is a solid choice for gamers, offering a range of speeds and no data caps. No hassle of contracts or renewal of the plan. Frontier provides a flexible option for those who don’t want to be locked in. Their speed limit is barely interrupted, ensuring a consistent speed since its origin.
Their special offer of 12 months of Amazon Prime on select plans makes it an appealing choice for new customers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Best for contract-free options | Limited fiber availability |
| Range of speed options | Customer service concerns found |
| No data caps | |
| No contractual hassle for new customers | |
| Amazon Prime for 12 months (Limited) |
RCN
- Price range: $45 – $70 per month
- Speed range: 100 Mbps – 1.2 Gbps
- Key features: No data caps, no contracts
- Special offer: First month free (Not available in every region)
RCN is a budget-friendly option for gamers, offering competitive prices and high-speed connections. It’s offering zero data caps and no contracts. RCN also provides flexibility and peace of mind for gamers.
Their special pricing with consistent internet service is admired by almost every user. Especially, users found their 24/7 quick response system highly useful.
Pros
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Best for budget-conscious gamers | Limited availability |
| Competitive Pricing in comparison to high speed | Possible equipment fees |
| High-speed options for different-level gamers | |
| No data caps | |
| First month free (Limited plan) |
Sonic
- Price range: $49.99 per month (May vary depending on regions)
- Speed range: 20 Mbps – 1 Gbps
- Key features: Unlimited data, local customer support
- Special offer: N/A
Sonic could be a reliable option for gamers, providing consistent, high-speed connections and unlimited data. With a focus on local customer support, Sonic ensures a personalized experience for its users.
While they don’t currently offer any special promotions, their commitment to customer satisfaction makes them a strong contender for gamers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Best for customer support | Limited availability |
| High-speed options | No special offers |
| Unlimited data | |
| Local customer support | |
| Reliable connections |
FAQs of Gaming Internet
01. What is a good Mbps for gaming?
For a stable connection, video game console manufacturers suggest a download speed of 3 megabits per second (Mbps) and an upload speed of 0.5 to 1 megabit per second (Mbps). This means that games will download faster and data won’t be lost in transmission.
Some game enthusiasts require even higher bandwidth than the recommended ranges, so it is best to check with your provider before buying a new console or signing up for service.
02. Is 25 Mbps fast enough for gaming?
Internet speeds are important for ensuring an optimal gaming experience. A consistent internet connection is needed to prevent lag and minimize the chance of losing a game because of connectivity issues.
Connectivity slows down if there is not enough bandwidth or the network is too slow. For best results, 10-25 Mbps download speeds tend to be optimal for those who want to consistently enjoy their gaming experience.
04. Is Spectrum Internet good for gaming?
Spectrum is the best place for gamers to play their games because of the fast downloads, reliable performance, and low lag times. Spectrum Internet has been voted the #1 online service by GameRankings dot com for 3 years running.
Spectrum’s high speeds make gaming more enjoyable with less time waiting for pages to load. And if you are not satisfied with your connectivity, Spectrum offers a 120-day satisfaction guarantee that lets you try out the service risk-free!
05. Who has the best WiFi for gaming?
Internet service providers compete for customers by bundling packages of internet, phone, and television. They also offer separate services for home security and technology implementation.
Verizon Fios and Xfinity have been rated as having the best internet service for playing games online with low latency in our testing. In a recent study, it had an average upload of 4.8mbps which was the second-best out of all providers tested.
Conclusion
After reviewing the top internet service providers for gaming, we can conclude that Verizon Fios, Google Fiber, and AT&T Fiber are among the best options for gamers.
Verizon Fios provides excellent speeds and low latency, making it a great choice for online gaming. Google Fiber also offers fast and reliable internet with no data caps and low latency, making it ideal for gamers.
While other providers such as Comcast Xfinity, Spectrum, and Cox Communications offer decent internet speeds, their high latency and occasional lag can impact gaming performance.
CenturyLink Fiber, Frontier Communications, RCN, and Sonic are also good options for gamers, but their availability may be limited. Ultimately, the choice of internet service provider for gaming will depend on individual preferences and availability in your area.
