WiFi vs Ethernet: Speed, Latency & When to Use Each
Compare WiFi and Ethernet connections. Learn when wired is better, how much faster Ethernet is, and which devices need each.
WiFi vs Ethernet: The Complete Comparison
Both WiFi and Ethernet connect you to the internet, but they work very differently. Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right one.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | WiFi | Ethernet |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Good (up to 1.2 Gbps*) | Excellent (up to 10 Gbps) |
| Latency | 5-30ms added | Minimal |
| Reliability | Variable | Rock solid |
| Convenience | High | Low |
| Gaming | Acceptable | Preferred |
| Streaming | Good | Better |
| Mobility | Full | None |
| Setup | Easy | Requires cables |
*Real-world WiFi speeds are typically 30-50% of theoretical maximum
Speed Comparison
Theoretical Maximums
| Standard | Max Speed |
|---|---|
| WiFi 5 | 3.5 Gbps |
| WiFi 6 | 9.6 Gbps |
| WiFi 6E | 9.6 Gbps |
| Ethernet (Cat6a) | 10 Gbps |
Real-World Speeds
| Connection | Typical Speed | Speed Variability |
|---|---|---|
| WiFi (same room) | 300-600 Mbps | ±20% |
| WiFi (different room) | 100-300 Mbps | ±40% |
| WiFi (far from router) | 20-100 Mbps | ±60% |
| Ethernet | Up to plan speed | ±5% |
The takeaway: Ethernet delivers your full internet speed consistently. WiFi delivers partial speed with fluctuations.
Latency (Ping) Comparison
Latency matters for gaming, video calls, and real-time applications.
| Connection | Typical Added Latency |
|---|---|
| Ethernet | 0-1ms |
| WiFi (good signal) | 5-15ms |
| WiFi (fair signal) | 15-30ms |
| WiFi (poor signal) | 30-100ms+ |
For gaming, Ethernet can mean the difference between winning and losing.
When to Use Ethernet
Always Use Ethernet For:
✅ Gaming consoles/PCs – Lower ping, no lag spikes ✅ Smart TVs – Reliable 4K streaming ✅ Desktop computers – They don’t move anyway ✅ Work-from-home setups – Stable video calls ✅ IPTV boxes – Prevents buffering ✅ NAS/servers – Maximum speed needed
Consider Ethernet For:
🤔 Streaming devices – If experiencing buffering 🤔 Security cameras – For reliable recording 🤔 VoIP phones – Better call quality
When WiFi Is Fine
WiFi Works Well For:
✅ Smartphones – Need to move around ✅ Tablets – Portability matters ✅ Laptops – If you move locations ✅ Smart home devices – Often WiFi-only ✅ Casual browsing – Speed isn’t critical ✅ Guest devices – Convenience over performance
Making the Most of WiFi
If you must use WiFi, optimize it:
Position Your Router
- Central location in home
- Elevated (not on floor)
- Away from walls if possible
- Not near metal objects
Use 5 GHz Band
- Faster than 2.4 GHz
- Less interference
- Shorter range (move closer if needed)
Upgrade Your Router
- WiFi 6 handles more devices better
- MU-MIMO serves multiple devices
- Beamforming focuses signal
Consider Mesh WiFi
- Eliminates dead zones
- Consistent coverage
- Better than range extenders
Making the Most of Ethernet
Cable Types
| Cable | Max Speed | Max Length | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cat5e | 1 Gbps | 100m | Basic use |
| Cat6 | 10 Gbps* | 55m | Most homes |
| Cat6a | 10 Gbps | 100m | Future-proof |
| Cat7 | 10 Gbps | 100m | Overkill for home |
*Cat6 supports 10 Gbps at shorter distances
Installation Options
- Direct runs – Professional installation
- Along baseboards – Discreet routing
- Through walls – Clean but needs holes
- Flat cables – Can go under rugs/doors
- Powerline adapters – Use electrical wiring (not as good)
The Hybrid Approach
Best practice: Use both!
- Ethernet for stationary, demanding devices
- WiFi for mobile and casual devices
This maximizes performance where it matters while maintaining convenience.
Quick Decision Guide
| Device/Use | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Gaming PC/Console | Ethernet |
| Smart TV | Ethernet (or good WiFi) |
| Phone | WiFi |
| Laptop (moves) | WiFi |
| Desktop PC | Ethernet |
| Work computer | Ethernet |
| Streaming stick | Ethernet if possible |
| Security camera | Ethernet preferred |
The Bottom Line
Ethernet is objectively better for speed, latency, and reliability. WiFi is better for convenience and mobility.
For the best home network: wire everything that stays in one place, and use WiFi for everything that moves.
Still Having Speed Issues?
A VPN might help if your ISP is throttling your connection. Plus, it adds extra security.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much faster is Ethernet than WiFi?
Ethernet can be 20-50% faster than WiFi in real-world conditions. More importantly, it's more consistent – you get reliable speeds without the drops WiFi experiences.
Is WiFi 6 as good as Ethernet?
WiFi 6 is much better than previous WiFi generations but still can't match Ethernet for speed and reliability. WiFi 6 theoretical max is lower than gigabit Ethernet, and real-world WiFi is always below theoretical.
Does Ethernet reduce lag in games?
Yes. Ethernet typically provides 5-30ms lower ping than WiFi, plus eliminates the random lag spikes that WiFi can cause. For competitive gaming, Ethernet is essential.
Should I use Ethernet for streaming?
For 4K streaming or sensitive to buffering? Yes. For casual HD streaming? WiFi is fine. Ethernet is always more reliable but not strictly necessary for basic streaming.