Is 5mbps fast enough for YouTube

Well, according to Google, YouTube videos can be streamed for 500kilobits per second but in standard definition. Users who would therefore, want to stream live events will need about 1mbps, 2.5mbps will enable a user to watch YouTube videos in high definition and 4mbps will offer up to 1080p in viewership standards. The above is a clear indication that 5mbps is fast enough for YouTube.

For a successful engagement with the YouTube videos, a user must ensure that their browser is up to date; the same goes for their operating system coupled with a reliable internet connection. In essence, therefore, is that the user must ensure that they have the latest version of the Opera browser, Google Chrome, Firefox, or the MS Edge.

Individuals who are reliant on YouTube for movies and shows among other live streams, must adhere to some requirements; they should therefore, ensure that their internet connection offers at least 1+ Mbps, their operating system should also feature one of the below, Ubuntu 10+, Windows 7+, or the Mac OS X 10.7.

Other requirements

Good bandwidth of let’s say 25mbps allows an individual to multi-task and if they have 50mbps then they can even add another user to their network and stream simultaneously. In some cases, however, a user might have to switch off other devices, for a responsive engagement with the YouTube videos, more especially if the connection is wireless.

And just like the other bandwidth-intensive applications, users might want to ensure that their internet connection is through Ethernet for a seamless engagement.

Recommended devices to stream HD YouTube videos

When streaming YouTube videos, netizens are normally presented with numerous options, for example, they can watch in 720p, 1080p, or SD quality. The video quality settings are available in some of the phones and the web player. However, if the title is not available in HD quality, it does not mean that you will not be able to watch, on the contrary, it will be provided to you but now in SD quality.

If you, therefore, have one of the below-listed devices, then you can stream seamlessly in HD quality; Roku, Xbox One, Chromecast, iPhone or iPad; Android or Google TV.

Recommended play speeds for YouTube videos

Recommended speeds	Video Quality
SD 360P	0.7mbps
SD 480P	1.1mbps
HD 720P	2.5mbps
HD 1080P	5 mbps
4K	20mbps

Data caps and YouTube video uploads

If you are using internet that has data caps then you will want to be informed of certain networking activities before actually engaging them, for example uploading videos on YouTube. For the latter, there are no limitations, and an upload can, proceed from a 2G network. For the success of the above, however, a user should ensure that they maintain a solid connection, by observing the guidelines provided above. Users who are however still experiencing connectivity problems while uploading will have to pause for a while then start all over again.

The new to YouTubers must then know that the quality of the content that they create plays a major role in the ability of the video to upload. If it is of high quality then it will take longer but if it is of low quality then it will take less time. Overall, however, a user should not burst their brain cells concerning the times that it takes to upload a video on YouTube; what they should, however, be worried about are the internet speeds, given that a faster connection will reduce the time that it takes to upload the video.

Conclusion

5Mbps is enough for streaming YouTube and you will even be able to enjoy a High Definition viewership; important to understand, however, is that the YouTube videos come in different qualities or resolutions, and the internet speeds are the primary determinants of the resolution that users will be provided with. And for enhanced, engagement netizens are advised to use the latest versions of their browsers and have solid internet connection.

FAQ’s

Which ISP is the best when it comes to offering faster reliable internet speeds?

Xfinity has been rated the best for individuals who love to stream, Century link comes in second as a budget option, Verizon Fios is recommended for home internet as it offers the best streaming performance, and AT and T is known for offering the best bundle deals.