The numbers speak for themselves
For video streaming, raw latency is less critical than for gaming. What truly matters is bandwidth stability. A 50 Mbps connection that fluctuates between 10 and 50 Mbps every 10 seconds will cause more problems than a stable 25 Mbps connection.
Why Wi-Fi can disrupt streaming
- Interference: your neighbors use the same Wi-Fi channels, creating invisible congestion
- Physical obstacles: thick walls, floors, metal cabinets absorb the signal
- Load variations: Wi-Fi throughput fluctuates depending on the number of devices connected simultaneously
- Distance: every extra meter between your TV and the router reduces the signal
- Electronic interference: microwaves, DECT phones, and baby monitors interfere with the 2.4 GHz band
Comparison by Usage
| Usage | Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz | Wi-Fi 5 GHz | Ethernet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full HD Streaming (1080p) | ✅ Sufficient | ✅ Very good | ✅ Perfect |
| 4K HDR Streaming | ⚠️ Risky | ✅ Correct | ✅ Perfect |
| 4K Dolby Vision Streaming | ❌ Not recommended | ⚠️ Depending on environment | ✅ Perfect |
| Multiple simultaneous devices | ❌ Problematic | ⚠️ Acceptable | ✅ Ideal |
The intermediate solution: Powerline
If running an Ethernet cable to your TV is impossible (distance, home layout), Powerline adapters are the best alternative.
Powerline uses your home's existing electrical network to transmit network data. Simply plug one adapter near your router and another near your TV, and you'll get a stable wired connection without drilling walls.
Which Powerline adapters to choose in 2025?
- 1000 Mbps Powerline: sufficient for 4K, about €40-60 per pair
- 2000 Mbps Powerline: recommended if you have thick walls or a large area, about €70-100 per pair
Powerline performance varies depending on the quality of your home's electrical network and the age of the installation. In older buildings (pre-1990), results may be lower than advertised values.
Our final recommendation
- Cable possible → Ethernet: always the best option, no exceptions
- Cable impossible, recent housing → Powerline 2000: near-Ethernet performance
- Cable impossible, router close → Wi-Fi 6 (5 GHz): excellent if the distance is short
- Full HD streaming only → Wi-Fi 5 GHz: largely sufficient
For any fixed multimedia device, Ethernet remains the undisputed benchmark. If not possible, a Powerline 2000 adapter for under €100 will solve 95% of streaming problems related to the connection.