Don’t Let Buffering Get You Down – Here’s 5 Ways to Improve Your Streaming Picture

By The TV Answer Man team

We probably get more reader questions about the unreliability of video streaming than any other topic. Although watching TV via streaming can provide convenience, the picture quality can sometimes be sub-par depending upon various factors. Blurred images, pixelation, and buffering can quickly turn an enjoyable movie night into a frustrating ordeal. To ensure you get the best out of your video streaming, we’ve compiled five essential tips to help you achieve superior picture quality.
1. Internet Connection
The foundation of a great video streaming experience lies in a robust and stable Internet connection. The speed and reliability of your Internet connection play a crucial role in delivering high-quality video. To stream content in 1080p HD or 4K UHD, a minimum download speed of 25 Mbps or higher is recommended. For even smoother streaming, opt for a wired Ethernet connection over Wi-Fi, as it provides a more stable connection with lower latency.

2. Video Quality Settings
Most streaming platforms offer adjustable video quality settings to accommodate various Internet speeds. If you’re experiencing buffering or slow loading times, consider lowering the video quality to standard definition (SD). However, if your connection allows it, choose the highest available resolution, such as 1080p or 4K, for a more immersive viewing experience. Just keep in mind that higher resolutions consume more data, so be mindful of your data cap.
3. Upgrade Your Hardware
Another way to enhance your video streaming picture quality is by investing in quality hardware. Start with your display device. A high-definition television or monitor with advanced display technologies such as OLED or QLED will significantly improve the visual clarity and color accuracy of streamed content. Additionally, consider upgrading your streaming device or smart TV to a more recent model with better processing power and video decoding capabilities to handle higher resolutions effortlessly.

4. Reduce Network Congestion
Video streaming quality can suffer if your internet connection is bogged down by multiple devices simultaneously using the network. To reduce network congestion and enhance your streaming experience, prioritize streaming devices and consider using Quality of Service (QoS) settings on your router to allocate bandwidth to video streaming. Moreover, schedule downloads and updates for non-peak hours to avoid interference with your streaming sessions.
5. Clear Cache and Cookies
Regularly clearing cache and cookies from your web browser or streaming app can help optimize your video streaming performance. Temporary files can accumulate over time, slowing down your streaming experience. By clearing these files, you can free up valuable space, ensuring your device has ample resources to handle video playback without interruptions.