If you’re a keen gamer or a streamer, a fast and strong internet connection is non-negotiable. In this guide, we’ll go over the best broadband for gaming and explore options from entry-level to ultrafast fibre packages, ensuring you make the right call for an uninterrupted and top-notch gaming experience.
Why consider broadband deals for gaming?
Having fast internet for gaming is necessary to ensure a seamless and entertaining gaming experience. The amount of broadband an online game consumes depends on the specific title, with more complex and graphically demanding games (e.g., Geforce Now, Stadia) generally requiring higher data speeds. This is especially relevant for multiplayer games, where a stable and fast connection is vital for smooth gameplay.
Pros and cons of broadband for gaming
There are a few pros and cons to consider when it comes to gaming broadband:
What broadband is best for gaming?
Fibre broadband is considered to be the best for gaming because it can provider the highest internet speeds.
Typically, fibre broadband speed ranges from 30Mbps to 67Mbps which is more than enough to cater to most gamers’ needs.
The fibre broadband speeds can go up to 9000Mbps, but it is only available in certain geographical areas. To know for sure which broadband is available in your area, use a postcode checker.
What broadband speed do I need for gaming?
The connection speed indeed makes a significant difference in gaming performance. A faster broadband connection reduces lag and enhances overall responsiveness, which influences competitive gaming or streaming. Choosing broadband for gaming involves considering not only the download speed but also the upload speed and latency to ensure the best gaming conditions.
To answer what broadband speed is best for gaming, let’s look at an example – the popular online multiplayer game Fortnite. For a seamless gaming experience, it’s recommended to have a broadband connection with a minimum download speed of 3Mbps and an upload speed of 1Mbps. However, for ideal performance, especially in competitive scenarios, a faster connection with higher speeds, such as 10-20Mbps or more, is recommended.
Mbps stands for "megabits per second," and it’s a measurement used to quantify the data transfer speed of a network or internet connection. It represents the amount of data that can be transmitted in one second. In simple words, the higher the number, the more megabits of data you can download in a second.
What should I consider when looking at broadband for gaming and streaming?
When choosing a UK-based broadband provider for gaming, several key factors can significantly impact your gaming experience. Consider the following aspects to ensure you make an informed decision:
- Internet speed. Regarding gaming, speed is the number one priority. The bare minimum internet speed for gaming is generally considered to be at least 25Mbps. However, for a smoother experience, especially in multiplayer games or streaming, opting for speeds of 50Mbps or higher is recommended.
- Type of broadband. The type of broadband connection also plays a significant role when it comes to gaming. Fiber-optic broadband is often preferred for gaming due to its high speed and low latency. It provides a more stable and reliable connection compared to traditional DSL or cable options.
- Monthly data limits. If you’re a die-hard gamer, unlimited data plans are recommended to avoid unexpected interruptions or additional charges. Some online games and updates can be data-intensive, and unlimited plans provide peace of mind.
- Latency and ping rates. Low latency and ping are extremely important for online gaming. Look for broadband providers that offer low latency, as measured in milliseconds (ms). A ping rate under 20ms is ideal for competitive gaming.
- Reliability and stability. A reliable broadband connection is a staple for gaming without disruptions. Check customer reviews, and consider UK broadband providers with a reputation for stable connections and minimal downtime.
How to improve slow broadband for gaming?
Slow and sluggish broadband connections can be frustrating for gamers, causing lag, dropped connections, and an overall subpar gaming experience. Luckily, there are several effective ways to boost your broadband speed and optimize your gaming performance:
1. Upgrade your internet plan
Consider upgrading your internet plan to a higher speed tier if your current plan is insufficient for gaming. Faster internet speeds provide lower latency and reduced lag, crucial for real-time online gaming. Contact your internet service provider to check available options that better suit your gaming needs, or choose one of the best fibre broadband packages of Vodafone or Virgin.
2. Use a wired connection
While Wi-Fi is convenient, a wired Ethernet connection offers a more stable and reliable connection for gaming. Connect your gaming console or PC directly to the router using an Ethernet cable to reduce latency and avoid potential intervention from other wireless devices.
3. Reduce ping and latency
High ping and latency can be detrimental to online gaming. Use gaming-specific VPNs or services that optimize your connection by reducing the distance between your device and the game server. Choose servers geographically closer to your location to reduce data packet travel time.
4. Check your internet speed
You can check your current internet speed using online speed testing tools. This will help you understand the baseline performance of your broadband connection. If the results indicate that your speed is significantly lower than what you're paying for, it might be a good idea to address the issue with your ISP.
5. Upgrade your router
An outdated or low-quality router may be a bottleneck for your internet speed. Investing in a modern, high-performance router can significantly improve your gaming. Look for routers with features like dual-band support, MU-MIMO, and beamforming for better coverage and reliability.
Our top recommendation is to go for Vodafone broadband, as it offers Intelligent Wi-Fi Hub and Vodafone Ultra Hub next-gen routers.
Which providers offer gaming broadband deals?
If you’re going to look into UK-based broadband deals tailored for gaming, several providers offer packages designed to meet the specific needs of gamers. We researched it for you and picked only the best deals so you can choose easily.
While a minimum of 5Mbps is sufficient for most online games, you should opt for higher speeds, especially in busy households. Here are some of the best offers at the moment:
- Vodafone – with competitive offers, Vodafone provides a range of broadband packages suitable for gaming. While specific speeds may vary, Vodafone typically delivers reliable connectivity with speeds up to 73Mpbs.
- Virgin Media – with average speeds of 130Mpbs and unlimited downloads, Virgin Media is probably the fastest gaming broadband in the UK and is ideal for any online gaming. However, it’s also one of the most expensive deals, too.
- Plusnet – offering affordable and straightforward broadband packages, Plusnet may not have many extras, but it provides good value for money. All Plusnet’s Full Fibre packages come with a Hub Two router, so you’d have a whole household covered.
- EE – this UK broadband provider offers packages with ample speeds suitable for gaming, as you get at least a 30Mbps speed guarantee, a Smart Hub router, and easy setup.
- BT – a reliable option for gamers, offering packages with great speeds suitable for gaming. The BT Complete WiFi offering ensures comprehensive coverage throughout your home, ensuring you have a connection in every room.
Is mobile broadband good for gaming?
Yes, normally, mobile broadband is good enough for your gaming. Even though you might find connections not as fast as fixed-line, it’s enough for gaming. You can increase your mobile broadband speed by refreshing your network settings and closing any apps that might be using data.
What about the perfect speed, though? It’s around 25Mbps for download and 5Mbps for upload. This will allow you to play most online games without lag. However, if you want to play the most demanding games, or if you want to stream your gameplay, you will need a faster connection.
4G LTE can provide speeds of up to 100Mbps, which is enough for most online gaming. However, 4G LTE can be congested in some areas, which can slow down your speeds.
On the other hand, 5G can provide speeds of up to 1Gbps, which is more than enough for even the most demanding games. However, 5G is not yet widely available and can be quite pricey.
Bottom line
In a nutshell, picking the best UK broadband deal is key for an ace gaming experience in the UK. Providers like Vodafone, Virgin Media, Plusnet, EE, and BT offer various packages with competitive speeds, suiting the diverse needs of gamers.
Whether you fancy swift connections, reliable service, or bang for your buck, these providers present the best-quality options to boost online gaming, ensuring a great experience for users all across the United Kingdom.
More broadband deals you may be interested in:
Broadband deals in Liverpool: discover the best gaming broadband deals in Liverpool
Broadband deals in Edinburgh: find the best broadband deals in Edinburgh suitable for gaming
FAQ
Is fibre broadband better for gaming?
Yes, fibre broadband is better for gaming than other types of broadband because it offers faster speeds and lower latency. This means you will experience less lag when playing online games. Our top recommendation for full fibre broadband is Vodafone – it offers incredible speeds and various compatible plans.
Is Sky broadband OK for gaming?
Yes, Sky Broadband is a great option for gaming. It has ultra-fast speeds that can power up your gameplay, whether you prefer single-player, multiplayer, or even streaming. Depending on the deal you choose, you get speeds from 61Mbps (Superfast plan) to 900Mbps (Gigafast plan).
Is BT Full Fibre good for gaming?
Yes, BT Full Fibre plan is good for gaming. With this plan, you can get speeds up to 900Mbps, which is more than enough to cover the whole household, or use on multiple devices at once, all while at excellent speeds.
How to lower ping for gaming?
To lower ping for gaming, it’s recommended to close unnecessary background apps, as they can be using up the needed resources, connect to your router via Ethernet, and use a reliable VPN like NordVPN, as it can help reduce lag by routing your traffic through a different server.