When it comes to the best internet provider for gaming, Verizon Fios stands out as the top choice. With speeds ranging from 300 to 2,000Mbps and prices between $50 to $120 per month, Verizon Fios offers low latency and fast, reliable speeds that are ideal for online gaming. The service also includes unlimited data, no contracts, and free equipment with gig service. For those who can’t access Verizon Fios, Frontier Fiber is a great runner-up, offering speeds from 500 to 5,000Mbps and prices from $50 to $155 per month. With unlimited data, no contracts, and no equipment fees, Frontier Fiber is a solid option for gamers.
Astound Broadband also makes the list for its offer of the best gaming router, with prices ranging from $20 to $80 per month and speeds from 100 to 1,500Mbps. Astound Broadband provides customers with the option to rent a gaming router for just $13 per month, specifically the Netgear Nighthawk Pro Gaming router, which offers high speeds, low latency, and support for Wi-Fi 6. While these providers offer specialized features for gamers, there are other ISPs worth considering for gaming as well, such as AT&T Fiber, Spectrum, and Xfinity. These providers offer fast and reliable internet speeds for gaming at competitive prices.
In terms of internet speed for online gaming, most PC and gaming console manufacturers recommend download speeds of around 10Mbps. However, it’s advisable to choose an internet plan with max speeds of at least 25Mbps to accommodate speed fluctuations while gaming. Latency, rather than speed, is a major concern when it comes to online gaming, with a latency of 20 to 40 milliseconds being ideal. Routers or software that prioritize gaming traffic can help reduce latency, along with using a wired connection versus Wi-Fi, limiting the number of active devices on the network while gaming, and upgrading to a better internet service like fiber or cable.
Satellite internet is generally not recommended for online gaming due to its high latency, which can make real-time online games unplayable. However, the exception to this rule is Starlink, which uses low-orbit satellites and boasts latency between 25 to 60 milliseconds. When looking for an internet provider for gaming, it’s important to prioritize low latency, fast and reliable speeds, unlimited data, and reasonable prices. With the right internet service, gamers can enjoy a smooth, lag-free online gaming experience.
