Nowadays, more and more customers are choosing to stream movies online rather than watching them on cable TV channels. This is because streaming is more convenient, cost-efficient, and you get to choose the movie title instead of forcing yourself to watch whatever is running on the channel. Nevertheless, streaming requires a high-speed internet service that delivers consistent internet speeds with utmost reliability. This brings us to the topic at hand, which providers offer the best internet connection for streaming. After thorough analysis, we have compiled a whole list of providers based on speed, price, reliability, and availability. So, let us dig in and find out the top-performing internet providers in the US:
How Much Internet Speed is Required for Streaming?
Different streaming services require different speeds. For instance, if you are a single user who needs to stream a movie in standard definition, then 5 to 7 Mbps of internet speed would be enough. On the other hand, if you are a household of multiple users who need to connect several devices to the internet at the same time, then you would need at least 60 Mbps of internet speed. Here is a quick overview of the required internet speeds for streaming:
| 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 |
What are the Best Internet Providers for Streaming?
Comcast Xfinity
Xfinity from Comcast is the largest residential internet service provider in the US serving millions of customers in 40 states. Through its Hybrid Fiber Coaxial system, Xfinity is able to transmit internet speeds that go up to 2000 Mbps, which is enough to stream online movies in 4K on multiple devices. So, if multiple users will be connecting their devices to the internet and all of them love watching movies on Netflix or Hulu, then Xfinity is the best option for you. The Performance Starter Internet plan by the provider starts from $49.95 per month and includes speeds up to 15 Mbps with no data caps. This is an ideal package for a single internet user.
Charter Spectrum
Spectrum is the second-largest residential cable service provider in the US reaching 113 million customers in 44 states. The company is widely available in California, New York, and Texas with its state-of-the-art internet plans starting from $49.99 per month. The key defining feature that distinguishes Spectrum from other providers in the market is its easy-to-understand pricing system. The company charges the same price for similar plans throughout the country. So, if you are planning to shift to another state, you do not have to worry about any price hikes. Spectrum currently houses three interesting internet plans for movie streamers. The standard Spectrum Internet package costs $49.99 per month and includes internet speeds of up to 200 Mbps. Spectrum Internet Ultra is priced at $69.99 per month with speeds up to 400 Mbps, and lastly, the Spectrum Internet Gig plan comes with a whopping speed of 940 Mbps for $109.99 per month. The best part about Spectrum Internet is that it comes with unlimited data, no matter which package you choose. In addition to this, you do not have to sign any contracts to avail yourself of Spectrum’s amazing services.
AT&T Internet
AT&T is another major internet service provider in the US with coverage in 21 states. The company offers unlimited internet data with most of its plans, so if you are an avid internet user who loves streaming online movies and TV shows, then AT&T is the one to choose. The company also offers fiber-optic internet in select areas, which offers speeds of up to 1000 Mbps for a starting price of $49.99 per month. Therefore, if you have access to this incredible internet plan in your area, sign up for it without thinking twice because it is perfect to power your streaming activities.
HughesNet
HughesNet is one of the best options for rural residents since it is delivered by satellite signals, which are virtually available everywhere in the country. You just need a clear view of the southern sky to be able to receive this internet facility at your home. HughesNet offers 25 Mbps of internet speed with all its plans. The difference lies in the data limit that is offered by each plan. However, the company also offers a bonus zone data of 50 GB, which can be consumed during off-peak hours (2 am to 8 am). In addition to this, HughesNet internet plans come with a video data saver that automatically adjusts the data rates for streaming so that you can watch more content and burn fewer data.
Final Words
These are the best internet providers for online streaming. Make sure that you check the providers’ availability in your area before comparing their plans. The fastest way to narrow down your options is by using your area’s zip code and street address on Local Cable Deals. That is all for today, stay tuned for more insightful updates.