FAQs about Internet Speed

What Internet speed should I choose for streaming? 

Depending on the type of content you stream, the required speed may vary. For example, listening to music on Spotify requires less speed (0.32 to 0.64 Mbps*) than streaming a movie.

Streaming for most standard-definition videos requires at least 3 Mbps, while 4K videos streamed on Ultra HD–compatible computers or devices require at least 40 Mbps.

Here are some examples of minimum recommended speeds* depending on the desired viewing quality:

Netflix:  Standard: 1 Mbps; HD: 3 to 5 Mbps; 4K: 15 Mbps

YouTube:  Standard: 3 Mbps; HD: 7 Mbps; 4K: 25 Mbps

Remember that if other people and other devices are connected and active while you stream, the required Internet speed increases proportionately.

What Internet plan should I choose to play video games online? 

For an optimal online gaming experience, it is recommended to have a minimum speed of 40 Mbps per console or computer. However, big gamers will tell you that the more you have, the better, and some even recommend 100 Mbps per console. Discover more on our best Internet for gaming.

In addition to the download and upload speed, the ping time (the speed at which your device gets a response after sending a request) and latency (the time between your manual action and what happens on the screen) are other factors you need to consider.

Here are some examples to guide you on the minimum recommended* speeds depending on the type of console used:

Nintendo Switch: Download: 3 Mbps; Upload: 1 Mbps

PlayStation 5:  Download: 5 Mbps; Upload: 2 Mbps

Xbox One:  Download: 3 Mbps; Upload: 0.5 Mbps

PC or MAC: Download: 3 to 6 Mbps; Upload: 0.7 to 1 Mbps

What Internet speed should I choose for working remotely? 

It depends on what type of work you do and the number of people teleworking or online at the same time.

If you regularly download and upload large files and take part in video conferences, a minimum download speed of 40 Mbps is recommended if you’re the only person working from home.

Here are some examples of minimum recommended speeds* for different types of telework:

Google Hangouts: 2.6 to 4 Mbps

Microsoft Teams: 1 to 4 Mbps

Skype: 0.2 to 4 Mbps

Zoom: 0.6 to 4 Mbps

Email: 1 Mbps

Web browsing: 3 to 5 Mbps

Social media: 3 to 10 Mbps

What if I didn’t choose the right Internet speed? 

Does the Internet speed you selected not meet your needs? You can change your Helix Internet plan online anytime. To increase or decrease your current Internet speed, simply log in to My Account and follow the steps for making changes to your services.

Does the location of my Internet gateway affect my connection’s speed? 

The location of your Helix Fi gateway also affects your Wi-Fi signal. Choose a location that is central to the rooms where you use Wi-Fi and make sure it is free of interference from other devices.

Learn more about selecting the right gateway location