Best Internet Providers in Washington, District of Columbia for 2024
Compare the Best Internet Service Providers in Washington, DC
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Washington, District of Columbia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Washington, District of Columbia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | 183.18 | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | 120.48 | Mbps |
| Latency | 10 | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Washington, District of Columbia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | 201.75 | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | 22.73 | Mbps |
| Latency | 22 | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Washington, District of Columbia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Washington, District of Columbia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Washington, District of Columbia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Washington, District of Columbia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Washington, District of Columbia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Washington, District of Columbia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Washington, District of Columbia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Speedtest aggregates all of the millions of daily tests across our website and apps by users just like you. We’ve filtered those tests down to those taken in Washington, District of Columbia, to give you a real sense of what performance is like across the top providers, and to help you make a more informed ISP decision.
| Download | - | Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| Upload | - | Mbps |
| Latency | - | ms |
Not all plans are available in all areas. Provider plan, availability, and speed tier data provided by BroadbandNow.com. Speedtest real-world data is only present where sample size has reached significance within a region. Additionally, averages may include aggregated tests across multiple Internet Types (Fiber, DSL, Cable, etc.).
At Speedtest, we take pride in providing reliable and precise data, serving as the foundation for our ISP evaluations. Our insights are derived from countless people globally taking a Speedtest, ensuring our data reflects current and credible ISP performance. This methodology grants us the confidence to present a transparent, impartial view of internet service performance.
Evaluating an ISP's prowess involves considering three crucial metrics: download and upload speeds, and latency. Download speed is essential for streaming and downloading, indicating how quickly data is moved to your device. Upload speed, important for sending content and online communication, shows how swiftly data travels from your device to the web. Latency, or ping, pivotal in gaming and video calling, affects your connection's reaction time. A thorough grasp of these metrics can guide you toward an ISP that aligns with your particular internet needs.
The technology underlying your internet connection plays a decisive role in your online experience. Fiber-optic technology, for instance, often delivers unrivaled speeds, making it a superb choice for intensive online activities. Cable internet, while more accessible, tends to offer solid download speeds but can falter in upload performance. DSL internet accommodates basic browsing and streaming with moderate speeds, whereas satellite internet, sometimes the sole option in isolated areas, generally exhibits higher latency and slower speeds.
How Much Speed Do I Need?
Download speeds of at least 100 Mbps and upload speeds of at least 10 Mbps are widely considered fast enough to handle nearly any online activity. A quick guide to what speeds you need for different online activities is below, and you can read our full guide to internet speeds and performance for more information. Keep in mind that the numbers below are the bare minimum for one device at a time. If you’re trying to use multiple devices on a network at the same time, you’ll want higher speeds.
0–5 Mbps (Slow)
- Stream SD video
- Connect on Slack
- Use Microsoft Teams
- Write and read email
- Scroll social media
- General web browsing
5–20 Mbps (Better)
- Stream HD video at 1080p
20–40 Mbps (Solid)
- Stream 4K video
- Play games online
40–100 Mbps (Good)
- Stream HD games
100+ Mbps (Fast)
- Engage in multi-player gaming
- Download huge files
1+ Gbps (Very fast)
- Do anything you want on multiple devices
ISP Speeds in Washington, DC
Based on proprietary real-world Speedtest data, Xfinity stands out with the fastest recorded median download speeds, reaching up to 201.75 Mbps. This performance highlights Xfinity's impressive capabilities in providing robust internet service to the city's residents through it's cable offering.
Xfinity stands out with advertised download speeds reaching as high as 2,000 Mbps. Meanwhile, for those prioritizing upload speeds, Verizon leads with advertised upload speeds of up to 2,000 Mbps. However, it's crucial for consumers to understand that there might be discrepancies between these advertised speeds and the actual speeds experienced.
A useful guide suggests that download speeds of at least 100 Mbps and upload speeds of 10 Mbps are typically sufficient for virtually any online activity, from streaming 4K high-definition videos and downloading large files to playing online games. The actual speed required largely depends on individual network use and the number of users. Given that internet usage accumulates across devices, the number of devices connected is a critical factor in determining the necessary speed and bandwidth for a household.
Washington Fixed Speeds
Download Mbps
Median download speed
Upload Mbps
Median upload speed
Latency ms
Median latency
To be added to this list for mobile or fixed broadband, 75% of a city's monthly unique user totals over a 13-month period must have a minimum of 200 monthly unique user results. To be updated for mobile or fixed broadband, 75% of a city's monthly unique user totals over a 13-month period must have a minimum of 100 monthly unique user results.
An operator or ISP must account for 3% or more of total test samples in the market to be on this list. We display data if at least two operators or ISPs meet this threshold in a designated region or city.
Internet Providers in Nearby Cities
Home Internet in Washington
Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, is a city steeped in the nation's history and politics, home to iconic landmarks such as the White House, the Capitol Building, and the National Mall. Residents in Washington have a diverse array of internet services including Fiber, DSL, Cable, Fixed Wireless, and Satellite, amongst others. This variety caters to the different needs and preferences of its residents, from those seeking lightning-fast speeds to those in need of reliable but modest bandwidth.
XFINITY distinguishes itself by offering widespread coverage to 99% of the area and delivering the fastest download speeds available. Satellite internet providers such as Starlink and HughesNet guarantee 100% coverage, making internet access possible in even the most isolated locations, though with reduced speeds. In selecting an internet service provider, it's important for residents to consider the internet service type, coverage reach, and the range of advertised speeds, which can vary greatly between providers.
It's worth noting that the maximum advertised speeds presented by providers do not always mirror the real-world speeds users might experience. This discrepancy underscores the importance of consulting real-world performance data and user testimonials when evaluating different ISPs.
How we test the speed of ISPs
Speedtest is the definitive way to test the performance and quality of an internet connection. Millions of users like you use Speedtest.net and our Android and iOS apps every day to test internet performance (including bandwidth, latency, coverage, video metrics, and more) in real world situations. We then use rigorous scientific approaches to aggregate and anonymize those results to empower people like you with content like this so you can understand and optimize your internet experience.
The data found within has not been subjected to the rigorous Speedtest marketing claims and data methodology, and therefore cannot be used in commercial applications. Additionally, promised speeds and plans offered are always subject to change.
How to test your internet speed
Speedtest can help you test the speed and overall performance of your internet for free from any device. Click here to open a new page and take a Speedtest. You can then compare your results with what you’ve learned about internet performance near you. If you aren’t getting the results you expect, you can either use this guide to use your Speedtest results to talk to your internet provider or you can shop for a new provider.