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What’s the Most Accurate Internet Speed Test?

You can get an accurate speed test result from several providers below and we recommend that you try more than one tool to verify your results. Be sure to read through our guide below the list to learn how to interpret your results.

  1. TestMy.net:
    • Description: TestMy.net is renowned for its accuracy in testing internet connection speeds. It offers a powerful broadband speed test that is fast, accurate, reliable, compatible, and versatile. The platform can help diagnose issues related to connection, browser, and operating system. It provides both download and upload speed tests, ensuring that users get accurate results without the interference of third-party applications. Moreover, TestMy.net has robust speed test servers spread across North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia, ensuring global coverage.
    • Unique Feature: It offers an automatic speed test feature, which benchmarks your internet connection bandwidth automatically. Now you can check to see if your provider is delivering the speed range promised in your plan. Should you find it significantly slower, test it again several times. In the fine print, internet service providers promise speeds “up to” a certain number. You should be getting close to that speed during the daytime but could see slower speeds at night when traffic is heavy. If you test your speed several times over the course of a few days, and don’t see speeds near your plan’s promised speeds, contact customer service to see if they can optimize your connection or even update your leased equipment.
    • Why Choose TestMy.net: If you're looking for a comprehensive speed test that offers large tests with random data and no third-party applications, TestMy.net is the way to go.
  2. Ookla:
    • Description: Ookla is perhaps the most recognized name in the internet speed testing domain. It boasts a vast array of servers worldwide, ensuring that users can connect to a server close to their location for accurate results.
    • Unique Feature: Ookla provides a dedicated app for both Android and iOS devices, allowing users to test their internet speed on the go.
    • Why Choose Ookla: If you're looking for a well-established platform with a wide server range and mobile app support, Ookla is a top choice.
  3. Speedtest.net:
    • Description: Speedtest.net is a reliable platform that offers free Wi-Fi speed tests. It's a straightforward tool that gives users insights into their internet connection's performance.
    • Why Choose Speedtest.net: If you need a quick and free Wi-Fi speed test without any frills, Speedtest.net is a solid option.
  4. Fast.com:
    • Description: Fast.com is a favorite among streamers. It provides a simple interface that quickly measures your internet speed, especially focusing on streaming capabilities.
    • Why Choose Fast.com: If you're a streamer or consume a lot of online content, Fast.com will give you a clear picture of your streaming speed.
  5. CloudFlare:
    • Description: CloudFlare offers free Wi-Fi speed tests. It's a trusted name in the internet security and performance domain, ensuring that users get accurate and reliable speed test results.
    • Why Choose CloudFlare: If you're looking for a speed test from a reputable internet services company, CloudFlare is a great choice.
  6. Google Fiber Speed Test:
    • Description: Google Fiber will test your fiber connection without serving you ads and will automatically choose its nearest server which means the results you see will be accurate. All this in under 15 seconds.
    • Why Choose Google Fiber Speed Test: If you're paying for fiber speeds you want to make sure you’re getting them, both download and upload. Google is accurate and reliable.
  7. HighSpeedInternet.com:
    • Description: HighSpeedInternet.com is lauded for its user-friendly interface and accurate speed test results. It's designed to give users a hassle-free experience while testing their internet speed.
    • Why Choose HighSpeedInternet.com: If ease of use is your top priority, HighSpeedInternet.com should be on your list.
  8. Meteor by OpenSignal:
    • Description: Meteor is a fast and independent app developed by OpenSignal. It's available on both iOS and Android platforms, ensuring that users can test their internet speed regardless of their device.
    • Why Choose Meteor: If you're looking for a standalone app that offers quick and accurate speed test results, Meteor by OpenSignal is a top contender.
  9. Speed Test Master :
    • Description: Speed Test Master is a free app for testing not only the connection speeds but also your WiFi 3G, 4G, and 5G speeds. It's available on both iOS and Android platforms
    • Speed Test Master: This is a good backup test to help validate your results from other testing apps because it’s easy to use and will help you identify issues especially if your Wi-Fi signal is slow.

Interpreting Your Results

You'll observe that the download rate is denoted in Mbps (Megabits per second). Recognizing the measurement unit is crucial. 1 Mbps equals 1,000 Kbps (Kilobits per second), and 1,000 Mbps is the same as 1 Gbps (Gigabits per second). Both your upload and download rates should align closely with what your ISP's package promises. If you have a pure fiber optic connection your download and upload speeds will be matching, or symmetrical. All other internet connection types will have much slower upload speeds than download speeds.

The difference between download and upload speeds is because most internet connections prioritize downloading over uploading. Activities like browsing or streaming music are primarily download-centric. However, when sending large email attachments or engaging in video calls, a robust upload speed is essential.

For those with a gigabit connection, it's vital to ensure your devices aren't limiting your internet capabilities. Key equipment to optimize your connection includes:

Ping's Role: Many platforms show a 'ping' value, in milliseconds, with your speed results. Ping indicates your connection's responsiveness – the time taken to receive a reply after a request. Depending on your activity, either ping or bandwidth might be more crucial. For large downloads, bandwidth is key. For online gaming or calls, a low ping (below 20ms) is ideal.

Choose a Nearby Server for Testing: The physical distance to the server can impact your test results. Google Fiber Speed Test makes this selection for you but in other tools you may need to select a specific server location from a list. Speedtest.net also selects the nearest server. It's natural for results to vary slightly due to multiple influencing factors.

Tips for Addressing Inconsistent Speed Tests

Speed test outcomes can vary for several reasons. The tests might not perfectly mimic typical web usage. Other devices on your network can also affect the results. For instance, if someone uses 20 Mbps of a 100 Mbps connection, only 80 Mbps remains for others. It's essential that your devices and cables are in optimal condition. If you're puzzled by slow speeds, consider these steps: