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So how do you know which cable to use since they all look identical? The cable’s category (or Cat) type is usually printed on the outside. But if your internet connection is greater than 100 Mbps, use a Cat 5e or newer cable instead. If your internet connection is 100 Mbps or less, you can use a Cat 5 cable. At some point, speaking to everyone in a crowd can become tiring and burdensome, slowing it down. Think of it as a dedicated computer with a brain that communicates with each device. You’re at the mercy of the router, which can handle only so much traffic. One thing to keep in mind is that no connection is without issues, whether you’re using Ethernet or Wi-Fi.

A wired connection helps alleviate these issues and provides a consistent streaming experience from start to finish. Because Wi-Fi signals fluctuate based on interference and range, you may see the stream dip to HD to compensate or, in some cases, visually fragment due to slow speeds. HBO Max alone requires a data rate of 50 Mbps to stream UHD content. You can always place your router next to your streaming device, if possible, to reduce the clutter. Devices like Apple TV, smart TVs, Blu-ray players, some Roku players, and more include Ethernet ports. The cables are ugly, sure, but your streaming experience won’t suffer due to local heavy Wi-Fi traffic or range. Recommendation: Use Ethernet when possible for streaming, especially if you experience long load times.Īgain, Ethernet is your best bet for streaming due to consistency and range. The cost ultimately depends on your environment and what you need for a good connection. The bottom line here is that Wi-Fi may be cheaper if your wireless devices are in close range and you have a decent speed for what you need. This means you may have Wi-Fi in a previous dead zone, but the speed may not be ideal for your needs. They’re good for filling dead zones, but they retransmit degraded signals. They are little devices that plug directly into electrical outlets and retransmit (repeat) your router’s signals. You could always boost your wireless connections by installing range extenders. Do you need a switch box or two to reach your destination? That’s something to consider with cost as well. The amount of cable you need to reach an area of the house you can easily access over Wi-Fi-albeit at a low-quality connection and likely the reason why you’re running Ethernet in the first place-could get expensive, depending on the length, quality, and generation. The drawback here is that you won’t get “free” upgrades-upgrading from Wi-Fi 5 to Wi-Fi 6 can make your wallet weep.Įthernet can be costly too. Over time, that can add up, so you’re better off purchasing a modem and router. If your internet service provider (ISP) provides a modem and router, chances are you’re renting the equipment or paying a separate fee for wireless access.

There isn’t a clear winner between Ethernet and Wi-Fi when it comes to cost.

Recommendation: Consider all your costs for your specific situation. Here are a few examples of Ethernet adapters for mobile devices: They’re bulky and annoying, sure, but if you’re willing to compromise mobility for bandwidth, they can be surprisingly inexpensive. You can add Ethernet (RJ45) connectivity by using a USB adapter. On smartphones, tablets, and thin-and-light laptops, a bulky Ethernet port makes no sense. Desktops and game consoles typically ship with an Ethernet port, with the exception of the Nintendo Switch-but you can add Ethernet connectivity to the Switch dock by purchasing a USB-based dongle. Your device needs a dedicated RJ45 port to tether it to a network physically. You can even purchase a stove, microwave, refrigerator, and more with wireless connectivity.Įthernet is not quite so compatible. That includes desktops, laptops, game consoles, mobile devices, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, set-top boxes, and so on. Most computing devices now ship with wireless connectivity. Compatibility is where Wi-Fi trumps Ethernet.