How To Choose Ethernet Cable For Streaming

Since the introduction of the Smart TV, streaming content has virtually eliminated the need for devices or boxes that were once necessary. With a Smart TV you get direct internet access via your broadband router and Ethernet or Wi-Fi network.

 These Smart TV’s have become more than just a TV, offering streaming content from the most popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube and allow you access to social media apps, web browsing, as well as various entertainment and productivity applications.

Even with all the capabilities of your Smart TV, a stable internet connection is extremely important. That being said, there are two options available to connect to the internet, wired (using an Ethernet cable) or wireless (via Wi-Fi). 

Although, today’s Wi-Fi technology has become faster and more reliable, it still cannot compare to the speeds and reliability that an Ethernet cable can give you. Having a wired connection will allow you to achieve optimal reliability and data transmission speeds, making your viewing time a much more pleasant experience.  Learn more about - WIFI vs Ethernet

Ethernet Cable Requirements

There are several factors that are key considerations when choosing an Ethernet cable for streaming such as bandwidth, data transfer rates, shielding and cable length. Cables with higher bandwidth and better shielding are highly recommended as they provide uninterrupted, high-quality audio and visual transmission. Learn more about - Different Types of Ethernet Cables

CAT5e Patch Cable	CAT6 Patch Cable	CAT7 Patch Cable	CAT8 Patch Cable

Bandwidth: Bandwidth is a measurement indicating the maximum rate of data transmitted across a network during any given period. The higher the bandwidth, the more data can be transferred, giving you faster internet speed and exceptional resolutions. Here is the average minimum speed requirements at various resolutions:

In all reality, you don’t really need high Mbps to run some of the most popular streaming services or devices. Basically, all you need is at least 25Mbps for Ultra HD streaming and this will cover you for all the other resolutions up to that point. You can always find out what your preferred streaming service recommends for bandwidth or Mbps by going to their help files and searching their name.

Keep in mind that any activity from users on your network, such as uploading to the Internet, VoIP communication, or gaming, can impact both bandwidth and upload speed. We suggest maintaining approximately 1.5 times your stream's bitrate available to compensate for potential network variations.

For instance, if your live stream has a bitrate of 15,000 Kbps (15 Mbps), make sure you have at least 22.5 Mbps total upload bandwidth at your disposal to ensure a dependable live stream. While you might not require all of the estimated overhead bandwidth on a stable network, it's always better to be safe than sorry.

Data Transfer Rate: The data transfer rate measures the speed in which digital data is transmitted from the streaming services or devices over the network. Higher data transfer rates give you faster internet speeds, enhanced performance and better quality audio and visual resolution.

Shielded Cable: Shielded cables (STP - Shielded Twisted Pair or FTP - Foil Twisted Pair) have an outside layer or “shield’ of conductive material such as metal foil or braided copper mesh around all the wires; or shielding for each individual pair of wires; or both. These cables are typically recommended for streaming services as they minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI) and maintain better signal quality.

Unshielded cables:  Unshielded cables (UTP - Unshielded Twisted Pair) have twisted pairs wrapped in tubing without any other shielding. Some unshielded cables have splines to help achieve the performance needed to carry data at higher speeds and to help with rigidity of the cable. While unshielded cables are more susceptible to strong electromagnetic interference (EMI), they are suitable for applications where there is minimal interference such as home networks or small offices.

Learn more about Shielding types and  Shielded vs Unshielded Ethernet cables

Cable Length: Ethernet cable length plays a crucial role in the performance and reliability of your streaming service.  Since Ethernet cables transmit data signals over specific distances, you need to ensure the cable will maintain signal integrity and minimize any data loss. 

The longer the cable length, the more you may experience signal degradation. We recommend measuring the distance between your router and the TV in order to choose the correct length.  Check  What Is the Minimum and Maximum Ethernet Cable Length for more details.

Which Ethernet Cable Do I Choose?

When reviewing the minimum speed requirements for your favorite streaming services or devices you will find that they typically run about 25 Mbps. With these speeds we would recommending using Cat5e, Cat6 or Cat6A for most basic needs but it all depends on your setup. For more advanced needs such as faster data speeds, we would recommend using Cat 7 or Cat8 to achieve greater performance and to future proof your setup.

As streaming technology advances at record speed, investing in a higher category Ethernet cable is recommended as it will more likely be compatible with next-generation streaming services.