I didn’t realize how much Wi-Fi was slowing down my video game console

With so many devices connected to Wi-Fi, from smart TVs to e-readers, printers to gimbals, it can be easy to forget about the times when physical cables were needed to get online. For all the convenience of navigating work and entertainment wirelessly, however, there is still value in finding an Ethernet cable and physically connecting your router to a device.

This is especially true for gamers playing on the latest gen consoles. For too long, I simply connected my PlayStation 5 to Wi-Fi, playing, downloading, and even at times streaming games without connecting any cords. It seemed fine, but sometimes you don’t know how bad things actually are until you have a better option I can say now that there is definitely a difference between the two, and it’s worth checking out your gaming setup to make sure you’re getting the best experience possible.

Choosing Wi-Fi versus Ethernet

Corded and cordless options offer different benefits

In general, the main reason to choose an Ethernet connection over a wireless one, for any device, is stability. A wired connection will have less interference than a wireless one, and allow for the fastest speeds possible. These speeds will also be more consistent, which is helpful when you’re enjoying entertainment or have important work online that can’t be interrupted. If you’re downloading large files, such as video games, an Ethernet cable is likely going to get you to the end faster than Wi-Fi. It also avoids any potential interference.

There are a couple of instances when an Ethernet cable is the preferred choice. For those with a high-end smart TV who want to enjoy all its features while streaming content, an Ethernet cable will reduce buffering and provide faster, more faithful results. Similarly, for those who enjoy online gaming, whether on a PC, PS5, or Xbox, an Ethernet cable will reduce latency and result in a smoother experience.

Still, Wi-Fi is going to be more convenient a lot of the time. Those with a Wi-Fi 6 router will enjoy the fastest speeds available, with a max speed almost three times as fast as WiFi 5, and that may be suitable for many gamers. However, it’s worth investigating a connected experience.

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Consider gaming style and interests

Determine your need for speed

For streaming, downloading games, or online play, there are certain recommended thresholds your Wi-Fi should reach in order to use your console effectively. If you’re competing in an online multiplayer, you’ll want an internet speed of at least 50Mbps. That standard is also recommended for streaming titles from PS Plus or GamePass. While you can certainly get by at lower speeds, you risk sacrificing both the competitive edge and quality of storytelling in some games. This is especially true for content in 4K resolution.

The main concern for many gamers is latency; you want the interaction between your gaming console and an online server to be as lightning quick as possible. Latency is measured in milliseconds, with the ideal registering at less than 50realm that you don’t even realize until it’s too late.

Both the PlayStation 5 and the Xbox Series X, the top two consoles of their respective companies, feature an Ethernet port. This allows you to connect your console to your router, provided it is within a reasonable distance, to enjoy the benefits of the wired hookup.

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The connected upgrade experience

An easy change delivered results

I was pleasantly surprised at the difference between using Wi-Fi and an Ethernet cable for my PS5 gaming experience. Even for someone like me who doesn’t dabble in too many online competitive games, I noticed a big change when it came to downloading titles, a definite advantage for those who enjoy PlayStation Plus and frequently want to try out new free games.

It made streaming much more enjoyable too. While download speeds were still fast, it was much easier to try out a game via streaming first, rather than putting it in my storage drive to determine if I actually liked it. Anything that helps me get to what I want to play faster is worth the effort.

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Wired connection considerations

Wi-Fi may be the only option for some

My situation was fortunate because my router is in a spot next to my entertainment setup. It’s within just a few feet of the smart TV and gaming console, and I had an Ethernet cord laying around. Not everyone may have the same opportunities. Running a lengthy cord and dealing with cables may be problematic for some arrangements. The clutter and tedious nature of running cords and having cables in the sight line may be too much for some people.

However, a distant router that may need to pass through walls and other surfaces may be causing problems in its own right. If you don’t want to go the wired route, try to get your router in the same room as the console, or at least within 10 to 15 feet. And if possible, get your hands on a Wi-Fi 6 router to enjoy the best possible speeds without a wired connection.

If you have the ability, it’s worth the effort to connect your gaming console to your router with an Ethernet cable. An increase in stability and consistency only serves to boost your gaming experience.

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