This article will cover:

• Types of streaming services
• What speeds do I need for streaming?
• What speeds do I need for gaming, remote work and smart home devices?
• Is my upload speed important for streaming?
• How to run an internet speed test
• Speed that works for you

Types of streaming services

Different platforms have different needs.

• Netflix, Disney+, Binge: These are on-demand streaming services. You’ll need solid download speeds, especially for HD or 4K content.
• Twitch, YouTube Live: These are live streaming platforms. If you’re the one going live and streaming yourself, you’ll need good upload speeds too.

What speeds do I need for streaming?

Not all streams are created equal. Whether you're watching a YouTube video or catching up on your favourite series in 4K, the speed you need depends on the quality you want, and how many people are watching at once. Here's how to match your internet plan to your streaming habits:

• Standard High Definition (HD): 3Mbps download per stream
• Full HD or 1080p: 5Mbps download per stream
• Ultra HD or 4K: 15Mbps+ download per stream

Keep in mind that these guidelines are for single streams. If you’re streaming on multiple devices at once, go for a higher speed tier to avoid buffering during peak hours (7–11pm). View the nbn® Key Fact Sheet to see what plan might suit you.

See what internet plans you can get at your address.

What speeds do I need for gaming, remote work and smart home devices?

Streaming isn’t the only thing that needs a strong connection. From online gaming to Zoom calls to smart lights, your internet speed plays a big role in how smoothly everything runs.

Here’s how to make sure your connection can keep up with your lifestyle, based on what you’re doing and how many devices are doing it.

If you have a Vodafone Super Wi-Fi Modem, download the My Internet Connect app (Android / iOS) to help manage your modem performance.

What speeds do I need for online gaming?

Gaming needs more than speed – it needs stability. Our minimum recommended speeds are:

• Download: 50Mbps
• Upload: 17Mbps
• Ping: Under 50ms is ideal for smooth gameplay. Stable ping with minimal fluctuations is key for smoother gameplay. Check your ping using speedtest.net.

Live streaming your gameplay? You’ll want at least 20–40Mbps upload speeds.

What speeds do I need for video calls and remote work?

For Zoom, Teams, or Google Meet HD video calls:

• 25–50Mbps download, 8–17Mbps upload

For multiple people working from home:

• 100Mbps download, 17Mbps upload or higher

This ensures smooth video, fast file sharing, and no awkward freeze frames, even when others are online.

What speeds do I need for smart home devices?

Smart TVs, security cameras and wireless speakers all use bandwidth. You want to make sure your Wi-Fi can keep up. Here are our minimum recommendations:

• Light usage (1–2 devices): 25Mbps download, 8Mbps upload
• Moderate usage (4–6 devices): 50–100 Mbps download, 17Mbps upload
• Heavy usage (multiple HD cameras, streaming, automation): 250Mbps download, 21Mbps upload

Mesh Wi-Fi systems can help spread that speed evenly across your home. Explore the Vodafone Super Wi-Fi Mesh.

Is my upload speed important for streaming?

Yes, especially if you’re the one going live. Upload speed determines how smoothly your content reaches the internet, which is crucial for live streaming on platforms like Twitch, YouTube Live, or even during video calls.

• For HD live streaming, aim for at least 3–6Mbps upload speed
• For 4K or high-quality streams, go for 10–20Mbps upload speed or higher
• If you're gaming and streaming at the same time, consider higher speeds, around 40Mbps

A strong upload speed ensures your audience sees your content clearly and without interruptions. Low upload speed can lead to lag, dropped frames, or blurry video – so if you’re broadcasting, make sure your connection can keep up. If you have multiple devices connected while broadcasting, a higher speed plan might suit you.

How to run an internet speed test

Not sure how fast your internet really is? Run a speed test – it takes seconds and gives you the numbers you need.

You can use a free tool like speedtest.net.

Look at:

• Download speed – for watching and browsing
• Upload speed – for sharing and streaming
• Ping – for responsiveness (important for gaming)

Speed that works for you

Your internet connection should match the way you live online. Whether you're streaming in 4K, working from home or running a smart home, the right speed makes everything smoother and more reliable.

Start by understanding what each activity needs. Streaming services rely on strong download speeds, while gaming and live streaming need low latency and solid upload speeds. Video calls and remote work demand consistency, especially when multiple people are online. And smart home devices quietly use bandwidth in the background – so it all adds up.

Running a speed test is a quick way to see if your current setup is keeping up. If not, upgrading your plan or improving your WiFi coverage could make a big difference. With the right speed and setup, your internet won’t just work – it’ll work brilliantly.