When you are streaming online, your internet speed matters a lot. That is why it is important to choose an internet provider that offers high-speed internet with reliability as well as consistency. However, since there are hundreds of providers in the market, it is quite difficult to decide which one provides the best service. Therefore, to help our readers find the best internet provider for their streaming needs, in this article, we will discuss the top internet providers for online streaming in 2023. So, without further ado, let us get started!
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Before we get to the top internet providers, it is important to discuss how much internet speed is required for online streaming so that you can make an informed decision regarding the internet plan. Nowadays, there are three different types of streaming, and they all require different speeds.
If you are planning to watch a movie on Netflix, you would need an internet plan that can transmit speeds ranging from 3 Mbps to 25 Mbps. This includes 4K Ultra HD streaming as well but for a single user only. If multiple users will be connecting their devices to the internet, then you will need a plan that comes with greater speeds and bandwidth.
Here is a quick overview of the best video streaming apps and their required internet speeds:
Video Streaming App | Optimal Download Speed |
Netflix | 3 to 25 Mbps |
Hulu | 3 to 16 Mbps |
Hulu + Live TV | 8+ Mbps |
Disney+ | 5 to 25 Mbps |
YouTube TV | 3 to 13+ Mbps |
Sling TV | 3 to 25 Mbps |
FuboTV | 3 to 25 Mbps |
HBO Max | 12+ Mbps |
AT&T TV NOW | 12+ Mbps |
Acorn TV | 1.6+ Mbps |
Spectrum Internet is our top recommendation for video streaming because it is widely available in 44 states, has highly competitive prices, and offers some of the finest internet speeds in the country. In addition to this, Charter Spectrum provides unlimited data to its clients, which means that they are free to watch as many videos as they like. With internet plans starting from $49.99 per month for 200 Mbps of internet speeds, Spectrum provides the best value deal for video streamers. So, if you want to sign up for Spectrum’s amazing services, simply follow this link and find the best internet plans in your area.
Xfinity is the second-best option for online streaming because of its super-fast internet speeds. The company uses an HFC Network Infrastructure, which transmits internet data via fiber-optic lines and the system automatically switches over to cable wires where fiber internet is unavailable. This way, Xfinity subscribers get to enjoy uninterrupted internet service with blazing fast speeds that go up to 2000 Mbps in some areas.
To stream online music, you will need internet speeds ranging between 1 to 10 Mbps. This includes high-quality streaming on apps such as Spotify, Amazon Music, and Deezer.
Here is a quick overview of the best music streaming apps and their required internet speeds:
Music Streaming App | Optimal Download Speed |
Spotify | At Least 1 Mbps |
Pandora | At Least 1 Mbps |
Amazon Music | At Least 1 Mbps |
TIDAL | 6 to 10 Mbps |
Deezer | 6 to 10 Mbps |
CenturyLink is one of the best internet providers for music streaming due to its economical internet prices and price-for-life guarantee plans. Since you do not need blazing fast speeds for music streaming, you can go for an affordable DSL package that costs $49 with a price-for-life guarantee, which means that you will pay the same price for your internet as long as you are subscribed to CenturyLink.
AT&T is another major DSL internet provider in the country serving 21 states with wide accessibility in Florida, California, and Texas. The company offers outstanding internet plans starting from $35, which are perfect for online music streaming.
For live streaming on apps like YouTube and Twitch, you will need at least 4 Mbps of download speeds and 50 Mbps of upload speeds. We usually recommend our readers to go for a 25 Mbps internet package so that they can easily live stream and perform other online activities at the same time.
Here is a quick overview of the best live streaming apps and their required internet speeds:
Live Streaming Service | Optimal Download Speed | Optimal Upload Speed |
Twitch | At Least 4 Mbps | 3 to 6 Mbps |
YouTube live stream | 13+ Mbps | 1 to 50 Mbps |
Verizon Fios is the second-largest fiber internet provider in the country with huge coverage across nine states including New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. The company offers some of the best internet plans for live streaming starting from $39.99 per month for 200 Mbps of internet speed and going all the way up to $79.99 per month for 940 Mbps of internet speeds.