Video keeps stopping to buffer while streaming
Buffering means your TV isn't getting internet fast enough to keep up with the video quality. Check your TV's actual speed, lower the video quality, or move your TV closer to the router. One of these fixes it.
Buffering happens when your TV can't download video fast enough to keep playing without pausing. Different video qualities need different speeds: standard needs about 3 Mbps, HD needs about 5 Mbps, and 4K needs about 15-25 Mbps. But what matters is the speed your TV actually gets, not what your plan says. A TV in the corner with weak WiFi can only get 2 Mbps even though your phone gets 50 Mbps in the kitchen.
- ✓Have your TV's remote handy to navigate settings
- ✓Know which streaming apps you use (Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, etc.)
- ✓If you want to test with Ethernet, have a cable available and know where your router is
Fix-IT-Bot will walk you through each step, just tap, no typing needed.
Skip, I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Testing your phone's speed when your TV buffers. Your phone gets much better WiFi signal than your TV sitting in the corner.
- Thinking higher quality is always better. You can't see the difference between HD and 4K on a normal-sized TV from normal viewing distance, so lower quality stops the buffering.
Signs you need professional help
- Your TV's speed test shows good numbers but buffering still happens. Buffering happens every evening and you're thinking about changing your internet provider. You want an Ethernet cable run through your walls. Give us a call and we can help with any of these.
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