Best NZ Internet Speed for Gaming On Console And PC

Practically all gaming devices these days are connected to the internet, whether that be a PC, a PS4, or Xbox One. In this blog post, we break down what internet speeds are best for gaming and fibre broadband being the fastest for it. We also go beyond speed and look at other key factors to consider when optimising your online gaming experience. 

Why is Internet Speed Important for Gaming?

kHaving a fast and secure internet connection can be the difference between winning or losing an online session. Nobody enjoys lag or buffering when watching Netflix or streaming music, so why would you want to experience lag when you play video games?

At the end of the day gamers want their skills to be the difference between winning and losing – not external factors such as internet speed. Find out the recommended requirements for a lag free online gaming experience below.  

What’s the Best Internet Speed for Gaming on a PC?

Before answering this question, it is important to go by which gaming device you use as internet speed requirements differ. For PC, it is recommended that you have a download speed of at least 6Mbps per gamer.

An internet speed of 6Mbps is enough to have a smooth gaming experience for popular online PC games such as League Of Legends or Dota. Other recommendations are to have a minimum upload speed of 1Mbps and a maximum ping rate of 100 to 150ms. 

What’s the Best Internet Speed for Gaming on a Console? 

Popular gaming consoles such as the Xbox One and PS4 have slightly different requirements. Unlike a PC, a gaming console is a device that is purely designed and made for gaming and entertainment purposes. Consoles require a minimum speed of 3Mbps downstream and 1Mbps upstream per gamer.

This can depend on the game that you are playing as some games have larger servers and have more requirements. For popular first-person shooters such as Halo or Call Of Duty, it is recommended that you have a download speed of at least 6Mbps if you want the best online experience. A role-playing game such as Monster Hunter World would also have similar internet requirements. 

Internet Speed isn’t the Only Factor to Consider

There are essentially three main aspects of your internet connection that will determine your online gaming experience. The first is download speed, the second is upload speed and the third is ping rate. Ping rate is often overlooked but is vital. Ping rate refers to the time it takes for one message to be sent to and returned from one location.

Ideally, you want to have a ping rate that is below 100 to 150. It is also important to consider that the estimated requirements stated above are for one gamer each. So, if you have multiple gamers in your household, you have to multiply the figures to reflect this. Make sure that your broadband requirements are being fulfilled by checking out the best internet deals right now.

You can also compare broadband providers in New Zealand and find the right high-speed package for you.