Is an Internet Download/Upload Speed of 700 kbps Fast?

An internet speed of 700 kbps (kilobits per second) is generally considered slow by today's standards. While it is possible to perform basic internet activities, the overall experience is often frustrating and inefficient.

Web Browsing

At 700 kbps, web browsing is manageable, but pages with heavy graphics or multimedia elements will load slowly. Users may encounter delays and page loading times that can be irritating.

Streaming

Streaming video in standard definition (SD) might be possible, but attempting high definition (HD) streaming would likely result in frequent buffering. The experience would be poor and unsatisfactory.

Downloading Files

Downloading large files is extremely time-consuming at 700 kbps. For example, a 1 GB file would take approximately 30 to 40 minutes to download. Smaller files may still be downloaded within a tolerable timeframe, but larger files would take disproportionate amounts of time.

Online Gaming

Online gaming may technically be possible, but the lag and latency issues would severely disrupt the gaming experience. The delay in response times could make the game unplayable for many users.

Comparison with Modern Internet Standards

For most modern internet activities, especially in households with multiple users or devices, higher speeds are recommended. Speeds of at least 25 Mbps (megabits per second) are considered necessary for a smoother and more enjoyable online experience. In some regions, the standard download speed exceeds 100 Mbps, and 1 Gbps (gigabit per second) fiber internet is available.

Real-World Implications

Users in certain geographic areas may face even slower speeds. For instance, in a place where the basic download speed is over 100,000 kbps and the upload speed is about 35,000 kbps, 700 kbps would be entirely insufficient for video streaming or video chat. By today's standards, any download speed below 5 Mbps is considered slow and inadequate, particularly for multiple users within a household.

Historical Context

It is worth noting that 25 years ago, a 700 kbps internet connection would have been considered relatively fast. Today, however, such speeds are far below the minimum acceptable standard for basic online activities.

Advisability

For ADSL-based connections, the upload speed of 1 Mbps might be typical, but the download speed could be much slower, especially if the phone lines are corroded or of poor quality. Some users may achieve speeds around 700 kbps, but it is not uncommon for DSL connections to be that slow if the user is far from the central office (CO).

For those with a choice, it is recommended to upgrade to cable internet or consider cellular data services, which can offer much faster speeds and a better overall experience.

In conclusion, a 700 kbps internet connection is considered slow by today's standards and is insufficient for most modern internet activities. Upgrading to a more robust connection is highly recommended to ensure a smoother and more satisfying online experience.