This Is the Internet Speed You Need for Zoom

• The minimum download speed requirement for basic Zoom functions is 0.6 Mbps.
• Frequently update both your computer system and the Zoom application if you run into issues beyond your internet speed.
• Other apps like Skype and Discord also have similar minimum download speed requirements.

Zoom is essential for online work, enabling businesses to hold meetings, connect with clients and share screens for demonstrations. It’s also useful for staying in touch with distant family and friends. But poor Zoom performance, such as choppy or dropped calls, is frustrating, especially during important discussions. One common cause? Slow internet. While you don’t need blazing-fast speeds for basic Zoom functions, a slow connection attracts issues. In our guide, we cover Zoom’s internet requirements, how to test and improve your speed and give you troubleshooting tips for smoother calls.

What Speed Do I Need for Zoom?

The minimum download speed required for Zoom is around 0.6 Mbps. If you want a better resolution and more stable connection, though, you’re going to need more speed. The chart below provides an overview of the minimum download and upload speed requirements for Zoom activities:

Every additional device and application running can use more of your internet’s speed. If you have a household with multiple internet users or have other applications open on your computer while using Zoom, you need a plan that provides at least 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload speeds, a benchmark defined by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

Upload speed is also critical for Zoom functioning because you’re uploading data when you share your voice, video or screen. A fiber internet plan will give you symmetrical download and upload speeds. The next best alternative is a wired cable internet connection. Major cable internet providers offer upload speeds of around 35 Mbps, which is much higher than what you need for Zoom.

The good news is that unless you live in the middle of nowhere, finding a provider that offers these speeds is easy. Most major internet providers offer plans with download speeds between 100 Mbps to 5 Gbps. Wired connections offer the fastest and most stable connection for Zoom. If fiber or high-speed cable internet isn’t available in your area, you can still get the speed you need for Zoom from DSL, fixed wireless and satellite internet providers. Just be aware of unstable connections and data caps. Zoom video calls can use between 0.5 and 2.5 GB of data per hour. For this reason, we don’t recommend satellite internet for Zoom.

Is My Internet Fast Enough for Zoom?

In 2024, the average download speed in the U.S. is 246 Mbps, which is more than enough to use Zoom. If you live in a rural or isolated area, however, you might not have access to major ISPs. Rural internet often relies on fixed wireless or satellite, which are known to offer speeds slower than what’s necessary for Zoom.

If you don’t live in a rural area, there might be other reasons why you aren’t getting the full speed your internet service provides. The first step is to find out what download and upload speeds you’re getting in real time.

If you’re not getting the maximum speed your plan is supposed to provide, it may be a problem with your router settings, your computer’s Wi-Fi capacity, obstructions to the Wi-Fi signal, data throttling or a virus.

Why Am I Having Problems With Zoom?

If you’re still having issues with Zoom, your internet speed might not be the problem. The following are common troubleshooting tips to ensure Zoom functions properly.

Update the Zoom App

Over time, companies stop supporting older versions of their applications. If you haven’t updated your Zoom app in a while, you’re missing essential patches and bug fixes that prevent problems during calls. Go to Zoom’s Download Center to install the latest version.

Check for System-Wide Maintenance

If you notice that your Zoom performance has suddenly changed, system-wide maintenance may be taking place. You can check for maintenance updates on the Zoom Service Status page.

Change Your Zoom Settings

Try turning off HD video by going to your Zoom video settings and unchecking “Enable HD.” While you’re there, you can also disable “Hardware Acceleration,” “Touch Up My Appearance” and virtual backgrounds. Disabling these will help reduce Zoom’s pull on your computer’s resources. If you still have problems, try disabling video entirely and only using Zoom’s voice-calling option (if your company doesn’t mind you being off-camera).

Update Your Operating System

Operating system updates often fix bugs, enhance security, improve memory and power management and optimize your network. Try updating your OS to improve not just Zoom performance but also your computer. In Windows, you can find system updates in “Windows Update” in settings. On a Mac, you can find them in the “General” section of your system settings.

Close Other Applications

Closing other applications will free up critical system resources such as CPU, RAM and network bandwidth. Video conferencing is resource-intensive, eating up your computing power and memory. If you have an older or cheaper computer, it might not be able to handle multiple applications simultaneously. Try closing other applications during your call to see if performance improves.

Restart Your Internet

The old wisdom is true: When in doubt, turn off your internet and then turn it back on again. Restarting your router and modem is the fastest method to fix slow internet, so if you experience it often and find that a quick restart solves the issue, turn this fix into a monthly habit.

Use an Ethernet Cable

If you’ve restarted your router and everything is working correctly, your computer’s Wi-Fi might be the bottleneck. Connecting with an Ethernet cable ensures you’re taking full advantage of the speeds your router offers, as it’s a direct wired connection.

What Are the Top Zoom Alternatives?

If you’re curious about the speed requirements for similar apps, check out the chart below for a comparison.

Several of Zoom’s top competitors, like Discord, Skype and Slack, also require a low minimum speed starting at around 0.5 Mbps. Google Meet and Microsoft Teams require more download speeds to function. All major video calling apps benefit from a faster connection, and several require more HD video and group calling. For example, although Zoom only requires 0.6 Mbps for basic functions, you need at least 3 Mbps download speed and 3.8 Mbps upload speed to enable 1080p HD.

Not all video calling apps are created equal. Zoom, Google Meet and Microsoft Teams offer full 1080p HD capabilities on a basic account. Discord and Skype offer 1080p HD, but only with a premium subscription, and Slack doesn’t support HD video calling.

Frequently Asked Questions About Zoom Speeds

Can I use Zoom without Wi-Fi?

You can use Zoom without Wi-Fi on a computer by connecting it to your router via an Ethernet cable or using your phone’s mobile hotspot to connect to the internet. On a phone, you can use mobile data to make Zoom calls.

How much data does Zoom use per hour on mobile data?

Zoom uses between 0.5 GB and 2.5 GB per hour for video calling. Although unlimited phone plans are common, many carriers have data caps that can be as low as 1 GB per month. To avoid unwanted charges, make sure to check your data cap (usually available in your phone’s network settings) before using Zoom on mobile data.

Will Zoom work well on 3G, 4G or 5G networks?

You can use 3G, 4G/LTE or 5G for video calling. If your bandwidth is low, Zoom will automatically scale to a smaller screen.