1 Gbps internet speed guide: Is 1,000 Mbps fast?

It’s fair to say that for many of us, digital connectivity shapes much of our lives. From work to play, the need for a fast internet connection is always there. This is where 1 Gbps internet comes in.

In this guide, we will take you through what 1 Gbps is, unravel some of the confusion, and help you understand what it can handle—helping you decide if a faster speed is something your digital life needs.

What is 1 Gbps internet?

In the simplest terms, 1 Gbps is an incredibly fast and reliable broadband speed, allowing 1 gigabit of data to be transferred per second. You may also see 1 Gbps written as 1,000 Mbps.

1 Gbps vs 1,000 Mbps

1 Gbps and 1,000 Mbps mean the same thing and are equal measurements. This is the same way that 1 litre is equal to 1,000ml — every 1 Gbps contains 1,000 Mbps. The way it’s presented will vary, depending on the provider’s preference.

Is 1,000 Mbps fast?

In a word, yes! A broadband connection speed of 1,000 Mbps is unquestionably fast, and provides more than enough bandwidth to support everyday online activities — and more. Think of it this way, a standard copper broadband connection is like the humble electric milk float — it’ll get you where you’re going, but you won’t be setting any records. 

In contrast, 1 Gbps of full fibre broadband is like sitting behind the wheel of a powerful Ferrari. The lightning-fast potential of Gbps internet makes conventional connections seem like a thing of the past — much like dial-up internet!

How fast are downloads with a 1,000 Mbps connection?

The table below shows multiple file types, their typical size and estimated download time on a 1 Gbps connection. It’s clear 1 Gbps offers more than enough bandwidth for almost instant download of audio files, images, and HD movies. You’d only have to wait a few minutes for 4K movies and video games to download, which is the perfect amount of time to make a drink and grab some snacks to settle in with.

Is 1,000 Mbps enough for me?

1,000 Mbps can handle a lot. But deciding whether 1,000 Mbps is enough speed for your specific needs depends on your household requirements and the online activities of each person. There are other factors to consider too, such as the number of devices connected, the types of tasks each person does online, and even whether your household is changing soon.

Let’s examine a few everyday activities more closely to evaluate whether 1,000 Mbps will be fast enough.

Is 1 Gbps enough for gaming?

When it comes to online gaming, internet speed is your hidden teammate, playing a huge role in determining the overall quality of your experience. 1 Gbps internet can provide a substantial advantage to casual and hardcore gamers alike.

Imagine this, you’re deep in an intense multiplayer online match, and a split-second can mean the difference between sweet victory or miserable defeat. A 1 Gbps connection ensures your real-life actions happen instantly in your virtual world. Reduced latency and minimal lag allows for more responsive gameplay, so you can react swiftly and be the hero of the match.

Ultimately, 1 Gbps harnesses the power needed to achieve gaming greatness. However, it’s also worth considering your full setup, such as device capability, for the most efficient sessions.

Is 1 Gbps enough for streaming media in 4k?

4K video streaming demands a significant amount of data to deliver breathtaking details that make you feel like you’re in the movie. It’s incredibly frustrating when you’re invested in a suspenseful scene, and the tension is broken by buffering, and all you have to look at is the loading wheel of doom. A 1 Gbps fibre connection is well-equipped to support the demands of 4K content, and will bring the screen to life with fantastic visuals and colours.

With 1 Gbps speed, there will be plenty of bandwidth to spare, so your viewing experience remains smooth and disruption-free. Even if other devices are connected to the same network, 1 Gbps will allow each person to enjoy their individual online activities without slowing down or compromising on quality.

Whether you’re binge-watching a new series, enjoying a live football match, or entertaining the kids with cartoons, 1 Gbps allows for unrivalled image quality across all your devices.

Is 1 Gbps enough for working from home?

Remote working often involves some kind of online virtual collaboration. Whether it’s a video call or working on a live document at the same time as a colleague, a robust internet connection is essential for maintaining productivity. A 1 Gbps internet connection can help navigate often high demands of working from home.

If your work often requires large data transfers, high speed broadband could be for you. Whether it’s uploading or downloading, you don’t want to waste time just waiting for the files to transfer because your internet connection can’t cope with you doing anything else at the same time. Instead, you want to focus on other work without interruption. This is more than doable with 1 Gbps speeds. 

As with gaming, ensuring your overall home working setup is optimised with good equipment and strong WiFi coverage will help you harness the benefits of a high-speed 1 Gbps connection.

How many devices can 1,000 Mbps internet support?

The benefits of a 1,000 Mbps connection go beyond speed. It’s also great for allowing multiple devices to enjoy the same level of performance. There’s no exact number as to how many devices can be connected, but it has been rumoured that 1 Gbps can handle activity from 100 devices at the same time!

In a typical household, you might have smartphones, TVs, tablets, game consoles, and smart home devices. Every one of these devices demands a share of your bandwidth for a variety of online activities. 

It’s easy to overlook how many devices will be accessing the internet at one time. Imagine you’re watching a 4K movie with a few friends. The TV is one device. But maybe a couple of friends aren’t that interested and are playing a game through their phones. Perhaps another is ordering pizza online. Plus, your sister is upstairs studying and listening to music. And then the video doorbell goes! But still, with a 1 Gbps connection, no one will lose out on quality.

1 Gbps connections are so robust that even during peak usage times when everyone is home and actively using the internet, your experiences remain smooth and uninterrupted.

Is 1 Gbps the fastest internet?

While 1 Gbps (1,000 Mbps) is extremely fast in comparison to traditional non-fibre broadband packages, it’s not the fastest available.

For those seeking even greater speeds, look no further than our 3 Gbps full fibre broadband — London’s fastest broadband.

Do I need 1,000 Mbps internet?

After exploring the capabilities of 1 Gbps internet, deciding whether it’s right for you all comes down to your unique needs. From seamless gaming and 4K streaming, to super-efficient remote working, there’s nothing 1 Gbps can’t handle. 

While this speed might go above and beyond your current needs, you may wish to consider future-proofing your connection for new technology, digital advantages, and maybe even a growing household.

How to get 1,000 Mbps internet

If you decide 1,000 Mbps speed is for you, be sure to choose your provider carefully. Not all providers offer such high speeds, and it may not be available in all areas.

Keep an eye out for introductory offers and easy switching options to make the process of moving to faster internet speeds as seamless as possible.

If you live in London, Surrey, or Sussex, explore our latest broadband deals and check availability in your area.