What Are Mbps and How Many Do I Need?

When choosing your ISP provider, you should always make an informed decision; otherwise, you could end up purchasing a package that isn’t suitable for your needs. You’ll either end up paying too much for services you’ll never use, or you won’t buy enough for your needs.

To know exactly what you are getting, you should know a little bit about the technology that delivers your internet. Understanding terms like Mbps, bandwidth, and latency will help you make the right decision on what Mbps are and how many you actually need.

What Are Mbps?

Mbps are one of the main factors affecting the price of an internet package. Mbps means megabits per second, a data unit that is used to indicate the bandwidth and throughput of your internet connection. To put it simply: Mbps tells you how fast you can download or upload information.

The higher the number of Mbps, the more you can download in the same amount of time. Simple enough, right? Well, this is where things get a little more complex, because there’s a difference between Mbps and MBps!

You might think that MBps is simply a typo that somebody overlooked during editing, but MBps means something completely different from Mbps:

• While Mbps means megabits per second, MBps means megabytes per second.
• Megabits will tell you the available speed in a fixed amount of time; megabytes will tell you the amount of data in that same time (how much you can download or upload).

The main difference between bits and bytes is that one byte equals 8 bits. Since that means that one bit is 1/8th of a byte, you can calculate how many MB of data you can download by dividing your Mbps by 8.

If you have a 100Mbps connection, you will be able to download 100Mbps/8 = 12.5MBps. This means each second, you’ll be able to download 12.5MB of data. So if your internet is slow, you just need some Mbps, right? Well, it’s a bit more complex than that.

While most ISPs mention Mbps as an indication of their high-speed internet packets, those are not the only things that affect the speed of the network. Mbps indicate the bandwidth and throughput of your internet connection. Which means:

• Bandwidth is defined as the maximum amount of data packets that can be transmitted through a channel (your internet connection) in a fixed amount of time.
• Throughput, on the other hand, is the actual amount of data packets that are successfully transmitted through that channel (your internet connection) in that same amount of time.

This means that while your bandwidth is listed at 100Mbps, the actual throughput might be lower, based on other important factors that affect network performance, such as network latency and packet loss.

Slow Internet Can Be Caused by Three Different Factors

If you often have issues with videos buffering, slow website loading or you keep getting disconnected from your games, you will have to test network performance.

More Mbps might not fix your problem because your internet speed depends on more than just that. You might get a speedtest result like the one below and still experience issues while browsing, streaming, and gaming.

So if your download and upload are fine, what else can cause this? To thoroughly test your network performance, you will have to measure the following:

• Throughput – This is how much data is actually being transmitted per second (what is referred to as the current speed of your network). In the example above, you have 117Mbps download and almost 15Mbps upload, which is close enough to the advertised bandwidth of 120Mbps/15Mbps.
• Network latency – Network latency tells you how fast the data packets actually reach their destination. For example, if you are using streaming services such as Netflix, you will need very good latency so that the data packets can reach their destination (your TV or computer) as fast as possible. It is often measured as ping – the time it takes to for the packet to do a roundtrip – a ping of 7ms (milliseconds) is great for anything. Everything up to 50ms is tolerable.
• Packet loss – This result tells you whether all data packets reach their destination or just some of them. Ideally, you should have no packet loss at all. If you do, it can cause slow speeds, disconnects, and long loading times as well.
  • This can be tested in your Windows by hitting your Windows button and typing in “cmd” to start Command Prompt. Once there, you should enter the command to ping your computer’s IP address.
    • When you start command prompt, type in “ipconfig” (without quotation marks) and hit Enter. Search for “IPV4 address.” This is the address you want to ping. In the example below, it’s 192.168.0.11.
    • Then, write “ping 192.168.0.1” (without quotation marks) and hit Enter.
    • In the example below, you see there is no packet loss at all, meaning the connection is stable.

Packet loss and latency is most often the issue when you, as the user, are just too far away from the main network cable your ISP has for your area. Always make sure to check that, too, when choosing your internet package.

No amount of Mbps can fix your internet connection if you’re just too far away for all the data communication to travel without getting lost or taking too long to reach you. Once you are sure that you will not have such issues, you can safely choose your ideal Mbps package.

How Many Mbps Do I Need?

Everything you do online costs bandwidth, i.e. Mbps. The amount of Mbps depends on how you plan to use your internet, how many devices will be connected, and how many users there will be. It’s not the same if you watch movies on your tablet or on your 4K TV either.

The higher the definition, the more MB per second need to be downloaded (streamed) for you to enjoy a buffering-free experience. The more users your household has, the more devices are connected at the same time, meaning the more bandwidth and Mbps you will need.

This table lists the optimal Mbps depending on various internet-based activities. Each new row shows activities in addition to the row above it.

**Note that the above minimum Mbps are recommendations based on a single-user household.**

How to Determine the Amount of Mbps You Need

You will use more of your bandwidth when you are streaming a 4K video than when you are browsing on your PC. While browsing rarely takes more than 1 or 2 Mbps, 4K definition video streaming often takes as much as 60Mbps and more.

Think about how you spend your time online. Are you streaming and playing games? Do you have a 4K TV at home? Are you living alone or with others in the house?

All these factors affect the amount of Mbps you need. The more of you there are, the more Mbps you need. The same goes for the number of devices that are simultaneously using the internet. All of them will take a chunk of your bandwidth.

This means that having a 4K movie running, playing games on a console, and being in a Skype call will require at least 100Mbps. List all your activities, and then refer to the table above to find your optimal amount of Mbps.

Best Internet For Gaming In Rural Areas

When you mention online gaming to anyone living in rural areas, most will reply with the same thing – it’s impossible. Whether suffering from slow speeds, high ping, data issues, or a combination of all three, teaming up with friends to beat the season’s most action-packed games has been frustrating to say the least.

Poor service and limited options have resulted from the inability of large cable and fiber providers like Comcast, Verizon, AT&T, and Charter to make a profit in these areas. Rural homes are fewer and are spread much further out than in cities and suburbs, so with a greater cost to run cables and install equipment to a small customer base, its just not worth it to these companies.

Have rural internet options changed?

Thankfully, as the Internet has become more ingrained in our everyday lives, additional options have become available. Rural homes won’t be seeing 500 Mbps fiber internet any day soon, but new options like fixed wireless Internet, and mobile broadband, streaming and gaming become possible no matter where you live!

Below we’ll dive into each option to help you choose the best internet option for gaming in rural areas.

Fixed Wireless Internet

Fixed Wireless providers have been popping up all over the country, primarily in rural areas, and work by providing internet access to your home through radio waves. Not to be confused with satellite Internet which broadcasts service from the sky, fixed wireless providers install a receiver on your home and point it towards their tower on the ground.

How is the gaming experience on fixed wireless?

Because most fixed wireless providers are small, privately-owned companies there is a wide variety of plans available across the US. For the most part, there will be no data caps on these plans, and the user will see 5-30 Mbps and a 20-60 MS ping on average.

Pricing is generally between $40 and $70 per month, with an additional equipment fee in most cases. Additionally, most plans are month to month.

If you can fall into the averages from above, fixed wireless is probably the best option for your home and will present no limitations to gaming!

Will fixed wireless be available to me?

Unfortunately, because you need to have a line of sight to the tower with limited barriers (large trees, mountains, tall buildings), as well as live within 10 miles of the tower, fixed wireless is not available to the majority of rural homes.

It’s best to do your own local google search for “fixed wireless internet providers near me”, but you can also use a site like [Broadbandnow]. Just note, it may not be 100% accurate.

Mobile Broadband Internet

As wireless networks like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile increase network coverage and capabilities, mobile broadband has emerged as a popular option for rural homes. Unlike fixed wireless, which delivers Internet over radio frequencies, mobile broadband piggybacks off of cell towers to bring you your service. All you need to get started with mobile broadband is an activated wireless router from the provider. If you would like to connect devices (laptops, tablets, gaming consoles) over Wi-Fi you will also need to add a router that will connect to your modem.

If service is available to you, speeds can range from 3 – 30 Mbps and ping rates are generally below 60ms. The biggest drawback with service is the price and data caps. For example, as of August 2019, a T-mobile broadband internet plan that gets you 22 GB of data costs $85.

If you can’t get high-speed internet from a DSL or fixed wireless provider, mobile broadband will be your next best option. Recommend going with a company like GotW3. GotW3 has agreements with the large mobile broadband providers that allow you to get tons of data, a lower ping rate, and great speeds. Service from GotW3 is $109/month, but to get a good solution while living rural, it’s well worth it.

How is the gaming experience on mobile broadband?

The average speed of a mobile broadband user is around 25 Mbps with a ping around 40 ms. If you are around the average you will have little tono limitations on gaming!

We do not recommend going direct through one of the large companies because they cannot offer unlimited plans so you will meet your data cap quickly, and either be slowed down to under 1 Mbps, cut off until your service renews, or will have to buy additional data which will get very costly. Instead, work with a company that has direct agreements with the large providers to resell their plans, but with unlimited service. The largest companies providing this service are GotW3, Unlimitedville, and UnlimitedToGO.

Will mobile broadband be available to me?

Cell service through the major providers covers almost the entire US, meaning there’s a good chance mobile broadband service is available to you. You can use a tool like this to see which cell providers have towers near you. To get service, you must live within 12 miles (20 KM) of a AT&T, T-mobile, Sprint, or Verizon tower.

Companies like GotW3 will check all 3 companies for you to find the strongest connection for your service. The stronger your connection, the faster your service will be and the better your gaming experience. If you live far from a cell tower, its still possible you can get service, buy it may be recommended to purchase a booster to increase your connection.

DSL Internet

If fast DSL internet is available at your location, it’s most likely your best option. DSL runs through your existing phone lines, doesn’t tie it up, has a low ping rate, and plans generally have high or no data caps. Sounds like a no brainer for the best option – right?

The issue with DSL, is the further you get from a city center, the slower the speeds that are available to you. Living rural means you’re not likely to be close to a center so it’s very likely you don’t have fast speeds available to you.

If you do have service available at your address, DSL speeds can range from 1 to 100 Mbps, and the largest providers to look for are AT&T, CenturyLink, Windstream, Verizon, EarthLink, and Frontier Communications.

It’s very difficult to know the estimated speeds you will receive, so if DSL is available to you on a month-to-month plan, we recommend trying service for a few months so you know what you can expect at your address. Proceed with caution if you have to get locked into a one or two-year contact because a sales agent might oversell the service.

How is the gaming experience on DSL?

If high-speed DSL is available to you, your gaming experience will be no different than those on a high-speed cable plan. You will have no restrictions and every type of game will be possible!

If you are one of the unlucky customers that can’t get a constant, high-speed connection, gaming can be rough with DSL. Because service is delivered through your phone line, ping will not be an issue in limiting the games you can play, but speed will be. Many DSL customers who live at the edges of a service providers network often see speeds at or below 3 Mbps. With the average speed of 3 Mbps needed for real-time FPS games, you will not be able to play games like Rainbow Six Siege, Fortnite, Apex, Overwatch, Counter-Strike and others.

Although it may be a little frustrating because of the speed, you will be able to play real-time strategy, massively multiplayer, and role playing games as long as you can keep a constant 1+ Mbps download.

Will DSL be available to me?

There is no rhyme or reason as to whether you will have DSL available at your home.  It’s possible your neighbor down or across the street has service and you do not.

You will need to reach out to your local provider and talk with a service representative. To find if there is a DSL provider in your area you can enter your zip code here.

Satellite Internet

Available from coast to coast, with the largest reach of all internet types, is satellite Internet. HughesNet and Viasat (formerly Exede) are the two players in this space, and each have their own satellites in the sky. These satellites can beam service to a satellite receiver on your home to provide you with internet. Because satellite can cover so much territory, satellite Internet can reach even the most rural of areas in the US.

As technology has improved, satellite plan speeds range from 10 – 100 Mbps which is great for the casual user. Plans generally cost between $50 and $150 a month depending on how much data you choose.

The drawback with satellite however, is that all plans have a “soft” data cap, and ping can be as high as 150+ ms because of the distance your requests have to travel. Both of these attributes make things like video calls and FPS gaming nearly impossible.

How is the gaming experience on satellite Internet?

Because of the high ping rate, any real-time game that requires any sort of instant reaction will not be playable. Your competition will always have a 100+ ms advantage over you which makes it nearly impossible to win.

You can play some “turn-based” games, such as casual games/Facebook games, some MMO’s, some Strategy games, and online board games, but remember that satellite Internet has a soft cap. Once you reach your monthly data allotment, your service will be slowed down to on average 2 Mbps.

Here is a resource that further explains what can, and can’t be played with satellite.

Will satellite Internet be available to me?

Satellite is most likely available at your address. With two providers to choose from, almost the entire US is covered.

There are a few dead-zones with satellite, and you must have a location on your property with no obstructions (most commonly large trees) for a satellite receiver to point to the sky.

Conclusion

There is no one size fits all solution for getting a good gaming internet option at your home. Internet options available, providers, and actual results will vary from address-to-address, and it’s very possible you will have to go through a few options to find the best provider for you.

We would recommend taking the following path:

1. See if DSL is available at your address. If it is, and speeds are 10 + Mbps, this is probably your best gaming option. If speeds are slow, move to fixed wireless.
2. Fixed wireless is hit-or-miss. If you live close enough to the tower, with limited obstructions speed is most likely fast and constant. If not, move to mobile broadband. Fixed wireless has the smallest reach, so it’s possible it’s not even an option for you.
3. In many cases, mobile broadband can be better than fixed wireless, but we made it the third option as it can be the most costly. Reach out to a company like GotW3 to see if you are a good candidate for service. Don’t forget you can always use an amplifier for better service.
4. If the three options above aren’t available to you, or provider poor results, satellite Internet may be your only option. You will have to greatly limit the type of games you play and will have to work around the data caps.

2023 DISH Playmaker & Tailgater Reviews – RV TV Antennas

Having an RV can often mean having a hard time finding a good alternative for your TV subscription. While streaming services like Netflix and Hulu can help, they only offer a limited selection of on-demand shows, which isn’t really a decent alternative for all the channels you leave behind in your home.

Satellite TV has gotten much better in the last few years, with many satellite antennas and providers improving their technology and services. DISH is a very popular option for those who are often on the move, and they have partnered with some of the best satellite antenna manufacturers to bring affordable DISH exclusive models to their RV-loving subscribers.

The DISH Playmaker by Winegard and DISH Tailgater by KING are two very popular models to choose from. Here’s what each of them brings to the table.

1.   DISH Playmaker: Lightweight and Portable

Overview

The DISH Playmaker family or satellite antennas are made by Winegard, one of the most reputable manufacturers of satellite antennas in the world. You can choose between two DISH exclusive models:

• DISH Playmaker Portable Satellite Antenna that supports single-channel viewing
• DISH Playmaker Dual Portable Satellite Antenna that supports dual-channel viewing

Both models are super easy to install, support DISH HD programming and pay-as-you-go services, and have a fully automatic setup so that you can start watching your favourite channels in minutes.

Specifications and Design

The DISH Playmaker is a dome-shaped, fully portable, and lightweight satellite antenna that is easy to install, carry around, and relocate.

• It weighs only 7 pounds, with dimensions of 16 inches in diameter and 13 inches in height.
• It is extremely durable thanks to military-grade aluminium alloy reflector that also improves signal strength by up to 20% when compared to previous models.
• The single-channel model is available in white; and for the dual-channel model, you can choose between two colour variations: black or white.
• The plastic dome covering the satellite has UV protection, keeping all the inner components safe from sun damage and adverse weather conditions.

Key Features

The DISH Playmaker is intended for use on your RV or for tailgating. You can either mount it onto the roof of your RV, have it directly on the ground, or use it with a compatible tripod to keep it off the ground to get a better signal.

• The DISH Playmaker works with any DISH subscription you have at home. All you have to do is add the receiver to your account and you will have access to all your channels wherever you go.
• If you don’t have a DISH plans at home, you can choose the pay-as-you-go option instead. Meaning you only pay for the months that you use it on the monthly subscription. There are no binding contracts for this option, and no hidden activation, deactivation, or reactivation fees.
• The key point to note here is that the Playmaker supports DISH programming only, and can’t be used for other providers.
• It’s also only intended for stationary use so you won’t be able to maintain a signal while you’re on the road.
• There’s little to no maintenance required for this model. Just make sure to periodically wipe the dome with a cloth and warm water to keep it clean off dust and other dirt.

Pricing and Bundles

The DISH Playmaker is available from $249 for the single channel model, or $299 for the dual channel model.

Both models come with a 25-feet coaxial cable and a hardware bag that includes a handle, two screws, and four tripod adapters. The dual-channel model is available as part of a bundle with the Wally HD satellite receiver starting around $300.

Additional Gear

You will get better reception once you lift the antenna off the ground, but additional gear, like tripods or roof mounts, will have to be purchased separately. Compatible gear includes the TR-1518 Tripod Mount and the RK-4000 Roof Mount Kit, both of which are robust and made to withstand harsh conditions.

Note: If you wish to use an alternate cable for DISH Playmaker, use RG6 cables no longer than 50 feet, or you will degrade the signal strength and performance.

Compatible Satellites and Receivers

Both DISH Playmaker antenna models will work with the western arc of DISH satellites. You can receive all channels located on satellites 110°, 119°, and 129° and overall, the coverage is fairly good across the whole of the US.

In order to receive the signal on your DISH Playmaker antenna models, you will need to purchase a compatible receiver. Compatible receivers include DISH Solo HD receivers. Currently, those are all Wally receivers, as well as DISH 211z, 211k, 211, and 411 receivers.

Setup

The setup process for both models is easy and straightforward, and you can install and connect the antenna without professional help in as little as 15 minutes.

1. Once you unpack the DISH Playmaker, locate the handle and install it. The handle goes to the front of the dome, where you can locate the holes for it under the base. Once you have, slide the handle in place, and make sure not to overtighten the two screws.
2. Find a suitable location for the DISH Playmaker antenna. You should have a clear view of the southern sky, free from any obstructions. Avoid areas with too many trees, buildings, or vehicles, as all of them will block the satellite signal from reaching your antenna. The surface you choose should be sturdy and stable.
3. Connect the coax cable to the DISH Playmaker and from there to the “Sat In” receiver port. If you are using the dual-channel model, connect the primary port first (labelled MAIN) on the antenna. This port should always be connected to the receiver because it also powers all the electronics through it.
4. Finally, connect the receiver to a power supply and finish the receiver setup by selecting the state you are in and pressing “scan.” Once the antenna has located the satellites, you can watch any channel you want!

Note that you will have to repeat the last step of the setup every time you move to a new location. Luckily, setup takes only a few minutes. Once you reach your destination and want to watch TV, simply choose the state you are in and hit the “scan” option to find satellites.

Performance

Overall, the Playmaker has improved signal strength and can maintain a stable connection. Most users are very satisfied with this model, and note that the only time they experience signal strength issues is during particularly bad weather, or if they don’t have a clear view of the sky.

Some users have mentioned that they had issues with initial setup and that it took longer. Often, they had to call the DISH support centre several times to help with the setup, and in many cases, the issues were linked to outdated software. Once the software was up to date, the issues were resolved so that’s always something to keep in mind.

2.   DISH Tailgater: The Fully Automatic Option

Overview

The Dish Tailgater family features five models of DISH portable satellite antennas made by KING, one of the leading manufacturers of satellite antennas in the US. The Tailgater family includes the following models:

• Tailgater 1
• Tailgater 2
• Tailgater 3
• Tailgater 4
• Tailgater Pro

The DISH Tailgater 4 and Pro are the newest models and the ones we’ll be focusing on in this review.

Specifications and Design

The DISH Tailgater 4 is a fully automatic satellite antenna that supports SD and HD DISH programming. It can be used on the ground or mounted on the roof, and it’s intended for stationary use only. It is based on the KING Tailgater model as an economic alternative for those RVers who don’t need more than a single provider and are happy to connect one TV only.

• It weighs 8 pounds and measures 13.5 inches in height, 18.75 inches in width, and 17 inches in length.
• The Tailgater 4 model is only available in white, while the Tailgater 4 Pro model has a black base and features a new sleek design thanks to the clear dome cover.
• It can withstand extreme weather conditions thanks to the weather-resistant cover and materials.
• The Pro version supports multiple TV viewing, but you will require a separate receiver for the second TV.

Features

DISH Tailgater 4 and Tailgater PRO are portable antenna systems intended for tailgating and RV use, and can be used directly on the ground, with a tripod, or mounted onto your RV.

• Both models are intended to work with DISH programming only (SD and HD).
• They support your current home DISH subscriptions.
• You can also use the DISH pay-as-you-go service for ease of viewing without having to commit to a contract.
• Fully automatic: Both models will acquire signals from all supported satellites automatically, and can also automatically switch between them based on your program selection.
• They are built for stationary use only. For in-motion options, you will have to find other models.
• No separate power source is needed – all power requirements go through the receiver.

Pricing and Bundles

You can get the DISH Tailgater 4 for just $299, which is a real bargain price. The package includes the antenna, a 35-feet RG6 coaxial cable that already has pre-installed connectors, as well as a manual and guide. The antenna has a 2-year warranty covered directly by the manufacturer KING that’s activated the day you purchase it.

Note that this model only supports single-channel viewing, meaning you will only be able to connect one TV and watch just one program at a time. 

The DISH Tailgater 4 Pro model starts at $349, making it an affordable option for those who want to have multiple TV viewing options. You will, however, need two receivers for multiple channel viewing, and should be aware that your multiple viewings will still be limited to a single satellite. This package includes the antenna, a 50-feet RG6 coaxial cable, and a manual and user guide.

You don’t get additional gear with the antenna; any types of mounts or tripods will have to be purchased separately. The Quick Release Roof Mount Kit (MB700) is a favourite of many, as it allows quick relocation when needed for frequent travellers. The tripod (TR1000) and Portable Antenna Window Mount (MB500) are other popular purchases for these models.

Compatible Satellites and Receivers

Both models cover all western and eastern arc DISH satellites. This includes satellites 119°, 110°, and 129°. When you connect any model to a Wally receiver, you will have access to 119°, 110°, and 61.5.

DISH Tailgater 4 and Pro are compatible with the following HD solo receivers: Wally, 211z, 211k, 211, and 411. Those located in the northeast of the US will need to purchase a Wally receiver to have full coverage.

Setup

The setup process takes less than 10 minutes from unpacking to watching TV, and you can do it without any professional assistance.

1. First, unpack your DISH Tailgater. Make sure to check everything is there.
2. Next, connect the RG6 coaxial cable to the primary port on the antenna. That port will have a MAIN label on it.
3. Find a good, clear spot for the antenna. Making sure there are no obstructions and you have clear skies.
4. Now you can connect the other side of the cable. Connect it directly to the receiver and its SATELLITE IN port, or you can connect it via your RV setup by using the electronic cabinet.
5. Next, connect the receiver to the TV, and connect both with a power supply. Note that the receiver needs 110V AC power source to work properly.
6. Finally, you should see the Setup Screen on your TV display. From here, just follow the instructions on the screen and the antenna will be ready to go.

Performance

The Tailgater is highly praised in the RV community for its durability and overall ease of installation. The only issue that is mentioned with this model is the performance during bad weather when it’s really difficult to get or maintain a good signal. But this is something common with any model due to the way they work.

Final Verdict

DISH offers a good selection of RV satellite TV antennas with their Playmaker and Tailgater Satellite Antenna families. Both Playmaker and Tailgater are easy to set up, can be relocated in seconds, and have good signal strength and coverage in all areas. While the Playmaker is a great option at a bargain price, the Tailgater is definitely better suited for power users because of its multichannel support and fully automated setup.

Partnering with some of the best satellite manufacturers has really improved what DISH can offer to their customers, and helps them bring the highest quality technology to RV lovers around the US.