Best Internet Plans for Gaming in Canada
Finding the best internet for gaming is about more than just fast download speeds. Gamers need low latency, stable connections, and reliable performance to avoid lag and stay competitive. Typically, the right choice is fiber internet, as it offers the lowest ping and most consistent experience. To help you decide, we’ve included a list of 3 top gaming-friendly plans in Canada, including:
- Bell Gigabit Fibe 8.0 Internet
- Beanfield Fibre Internet 1 Gbps
- Videotron Internet 2.5 GIGA
The best gaming internet plan depends on many factors, such as your location, provider coverage, network congestion, budget, and the types of games you play. This means that even if two people choose the same plan, their level of satisfaction can be very different.
The table below compares our picks for the best internet plans for gaming across different provinces, highlighting key details such as download/upload speeds, price, connection type, data usage, and contract terms.
| Speed | Monthly Usage | Monthly Price | For 2 years | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Beanfield – Fibre Internet 1 Gbps – BC | 1000/1000 (Fibre) | Unlimited | $50.00 | $1,200 | |
Videotron – 2.5 GIGA Internet | 2500/2500 (Fibre) | Unlimited | $85.00 | $2,040 | |
Bell Gigabit Fibe 8.0 Internet – ON | 8000/8000 (Fibre) | Unlimited | $130.00 | $3,600 |
Best Ontario internet plans for gaming
Bell Gigabit Fibe 8.0 Internet – ON
- 24 Months
- Fibre
- Residential
8 Gbps
$130.00
$160.00Best British Columbia internet plans for gaming
Beanfield Fibre Internet 1 Gbps is one of the best gaming options in British Columbia for areas where it’s available. With symmetrical 1 Gbps speeds, low latency, unlimited data, free installation, and hardware rental included, it provides a stable and fast connection ideal for multiplayer gaming and streaming. While availability is limited to certain regions, it’s a reliable and cost-effective choice for serious gamers.
Beanfield – Fibre Internet 1 Gbps – BC
- No Contract
- Fibre
- Residential
1 Gbps
$50.00
$55.00Best Quebec internet plans for gaming
Videotron Internet 2.5 GIGA is an excellent choice for gamers in Quebec, offering symmetrical 2.5 Gbps speeds over a fiber-optic network, ensuring low latency and stable connections ideal for online gaming. The plan includes unlimited data, a Helix Fi gateway with Wi-Fi 6 technology, providing a seamless and secure gaming experience. It’s a reliable and cost-effective option for serious gamers.
Videotron – 2.5 GIGA Internet
- No Contract
- Fibre
- Residential
2.5 Gbps
$85.00
$93.00How to Find the Best Internet Plans for Gaming
When choosing an internet plan for gaming, consider the following key factors:
Download/Upload Speed
- Download Speed: A minimum of 50 Mbps is recommended for smooth online gaming. For multiplayer games, live streaming, or households with multiple players, aim for 100 Mbps or more.
- Upload Speed: Often overlooked, upload speed is crucial for gaming, especially for multiplayer games. Slow upload speeds can lead to delays, lag, poor performance, and even packet loss. A good upload speed is also necessary for maintaining clear communication during gaming sessions. We recommend at least 10–20 Mbps upload speed for an optimal gaming experience.
Ping (Latency)
Low ping minimizes the delay between your actions and the server’s response, making it essential for competitive gaming. Since most ISPs don’t disclose ping data and it can vary by location, it’s best to test the connection yourself. Some ISPs offer money-back guarantees, allowing you to evaluate their service without risk. Generally, cable and fiber internet provide lower latency compared to DSL or satellite connections.
How Much Internet Speed For Gaming?
Gaming is an increasingly popular pastime, with millions of players around the world engaging in online multiplayer battles, immersive virtual worlds, and competitive eSports tournaments. But how much internet speed do you really need to enjoy a smooth gaming experience? Let’s find out:
Factors to Consider
Several factors influence the internet speed required for gaming:
- Latency: Low latency is crucial for gaming to minimize delays between your actions and the server’s response.
- Stability: A stable internet connection ensures consistent gameplay without lag spikes or disconnections.
- Bandwidth: Sufficient bandwidth is needed for multiplayer gaming and downloading updates or digital content.
- Quality of Service (QoS): Some ISPs offer QoS features to prioritize gaming traffic, enhancing the gaming experience.
Recommended Speeds
While the exact internet speed requirements can vary depending on the game and platform, here are some general recommendations:
- Minimum Speed: 3-6 Mbps for basic online gaming with low latency.
- Standard Speed: 10-25 Mbps for smooth gameplay in most online multiplayer games.
- High Speed: 25-50 Mbps for competitive gaming or streaming gameplay.
- Ultra-High Speed: 50+ Mbps for ultra-low latency and optimal performance in demanding eSports titles.
Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and individual requirements may vary based on factors such as the number of devices connected, network congestion, and the quality of service provided by your ISP.
Frequently Asked Questions about Internet Service for Gaming in Canada
1. What internet speed is recommended for gaming in Canada?
For optimal gaming experiences in Canada, a minimum internet speed of 10-25 Mbps is recommended, depending on the game’s requirements and the number of users/devices connected.
2. Why is low latency important for gaming?
Low latency reduces delays between your actions and the server’s response, ensuring smoother gameplay and giving you a competitive edge, especially in fast-paced multiplayer games.
3. Are there specific internet plans tailored for gaming in Canada?
Yes, some ISPs in Canada offer specialized internet plans optimized for gaming, featuring low latency, stable connections, and prioritization of gaming traffic for enhanced performance.
4. What other factors besides speed should I consider for gaming internet?
Stability, bandwidth, Quality of Service (QoS) features, and reliability are crucial factors to consider when selecting an internet service for gaming in Canada to ensure smooth gameplay and minimal interruptions.
5. Can I use Wi-Fi for gaming, or should I use a wired connection?
While Wi-Fi can be convenient, a wired Ethernet connection generally provides more stable and reliable performance for gaming, reducing latency and minimizing potential interference.
6. How can I test my internet connection for gaming in Canada?
You can use online speed test tools to check your internet speed, ping, and latency. Additionally, some games offer in-game network performance metrics to help assess your connection quality.
For more information and personalized recommendations on internet service for gaming in Canada, visit Stackup.ca today!
