If you’re using the amazing Firestick for streaming content, then you know how important it is to have a seamless internet connection. Without one, you can face lags and constant buffering that can ruin your overall experience.
But, before you even begin thinking about getting a good internet connection, you need to know what is the best internet speed for Firestick. That’s right, knowing what speed Firestick will run smoothly will help you pick the right internet plan from your provider.
Fortunately, that’s what we’re here to see. We’re listing some insights into the speed needed for smoothly streaming content using Firestick. So, let’s get started:
Best Internet Speed for Streaming On Firestick
Since we’re considering different streaming qualities for the purpose, we shall see different measures for each of them to give you the best idea:
For SD Quality Streaming
Standard Definition or SD quality can be the lowest form of streaming quality. You can view content in 480p; however, it can drop further if the internet speed isn’t enough. But on the other hand, you don’t have to worry about getting a good speed too since SD doesn’t need that much. On average, HD streaming would require 3-5 Mbps internet speed to run smoothly.
For HD Quality Streaming
If you’re streaming content, binge-watching an awaited episode or a movie, then at least watch it in HD. However, for that, you’ll need a better internet connection than you were using for SD quality.
Most people argue that SD and HD quality can run at the same speed. It’s true; however, running a higher quality at low speed will take more time to load. Not to mention it consumes more data as well. So upgrading to a higher speed is most recommended if you’re streaming in high quality.
For HD, having a 5-10 Mbps connection is enough. Make sure you don’t have additional devices running downloads or streaming as well. It’ll divide the overall speed and data, and you won’t have enough juice for your stream.
For 4K Quality Streaming
Nothing beats streaming content in 4K, period. You get to enjoy the crisp visual details that let you immerse in the content completely. However, it comes at a great cost. On average, 4K streaming consumes around 7 GB of data/ hour, which means you certainly can’t get an internet connection with a data cap.
As for the speed, you’ll need around 25 Mbps speed to load and stream content without buffering. A slower speed can also be opted for; however, you’ll need to minimize additional tasks for it so that the speed isn’t disrupted.
Setting Up Your Firestick
Now that you know the internet speed needed for streaming on Firestick, let’s check out how you can set it up. Simply follow the steps below and you’ll set it up the right way:
- Take your Firestick device and plug it into your TV’s HDMI port.
- Once done, ensure that it’s powered with the adapter.
- Also, ensure that your streaming TV is connected to the Wi-Fi and has ample coverage.
- You can use Wi-Fi extenders to enhance the coverage of your Wi-Fi signals if you’re facing a signal issue.
- Once done, power on your TV and head to the settings from the menu.
- There, you’ll need to go to HDMI options or open Firestick if it’s visible.
- You’ll be prompted to input credentials for the device.
- Input your Firestick credentials to continue
There! It’s that easy. Once you’re done inputting the credentials, you’ll be able to stream content the way you like.
Why Use a Firestick for Streaming?
With so many streaming services available, it’s a common question to ask. But we’re sharing some perks that you get with using a Firestick for your streaming needs:
Get Internet Access on your TV
Using a Firestick, you can convert your regular TV into a smart TV. Even if you’re not streaming anything, you can enjoy the internet, search for different shows, play featured games, and more without any hassle.
Voice Control
Another advantage you get using a Firestick is voice control. Instead of navigating via remote, you can simply enable voice control and navigate with that. Simply let your smart home assistant know what you want to watch, and it’ll play it while you get comfy with your snacks.
Streaming Services
Your regular TV won’t be able to stream content freely. But as highlighted earlier, you get internet access with it. This makes it easier to view and stream online content using the HDMI port of your TV. It’s as simple and convenient as that!
Closing Thoughts
The Firestick brings convenience to its users. It’s an affordable way of streaming online content and accessing the internet on your TV. You can carry it anywhere and enjoy the same streaming services. However, ensure that you have the right internet connection and the speed needed for streaming the desired quality.
