Download speed means the amount of data your connection can receive in a single second, represented as megabits or gigabits per second. It’s also described as bandwidth. DSL connections typically offer speeds from 5 to 35Mbps. Cable connections deliver download speeds between 10 and 500Mbps. Fiber packages usually range from 250 to 1000Mbps, or 1Gbps.
To a certain extent, you’ll be limited by the technology available in your area and to your home. Fiber is only available to around 25% of all households. Usually, slower packages are cheaper so you’ll save money if you’re content to travel in the internet slow lane. But most modern households will want a faster connection.
You’ll need more internet speed to comfortably stream video content and game online. You also need to consider the number of internet users in your households: everyone and their laptop and tablet have to share your bandwidth between them. That means that unless you spring for a faster package, you might not be able to load Steam while your wife is watching Hulu.