Do I have choice what resolution to stream using boxes like Roku?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the capabilities and limitations of streaming video resolutions using devices like Roku, particularly in the context of a 25MBPS internet connection. Participants explore options for streaming in lower resolutions to accommodate multiple devices and address concerns about buffering and internet speed.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether they can choose to stream in SD or HD to manage bandwidth effectively, given their internet speed limitations.
  • Another participant mentions that Netflix may automatically adjust the streaming resolution based on available bandwidth.
  • A participant raises concerns about the implications of streaming on multiple TVs simultaneously with a 25MBPS limit and discusses potential settings adjustments on Roku to manage speed.
  • There is a query about the meaning of buffering and whether it results in screen freezing when download speeds are insufficient.
  • One participant suggests that the advertised internet speed may not be reliable and recommends conducting speed tests before making streaming plans.
  • Another participant reflects on the limitations of satellite internet for streaming and considers alternative arrangements for TV service that may be more cost-effective.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion contains multiple competing views regarding the management of streaming resolutions and the reliability of internet speeds. There is no consensus on the best approach to take given the constraints of bandwidth and device capabilities.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the actual internet speeds they may experience compared to advertised speeds, and there are unresolved questions about the technical implications of streaming multiple devices simultaneously.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in streaming technology, bandwidth management, and those considering the use of streaming devices like Roku in low-bandwidth environments may find this discussion relevant.

yungman
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Hi

Sorry about the stupid question. I am completely green on tv streaming. I have a limitation of 25MBPS internet connection. I know 4K video needs 25MBPS speed. That is I can ONLY run one tv.

I really don't care about the clarity and resolution. I have modern smart tv, but I am still feeding with RCA composite video. I am a sound guy, my stereo is tip top, but I don't care about the screen.

Can I make a choice what resolution video to stream? That is can I just want to stream SD or at best HD videos so I can use multiple tv, computers with just 25MBPS internet connection.

Thanks

Alan
 
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Netflix I believe automatically adjusts resolution down if you are having bandwidth problems.

Of course, another solution is to trade in the 4K TVs for a HD, or even less than HD.
 
What will happen if I have 4 TV station watching 4 different channels at the same time with max internet download speed of 25MBPS only?

This article said I can set the speed of Roku, would that solve my problem if I set Roku to 8MBPS so even if I run 4 tv, it's still using 24MBPS. Am I reading this right?
https://www.technipages.com/roku-set-connection-speed
Also this article said I can set the video quality to reduce buffering:
https://www.lifewire.com/fix-roku-keeps-buffering-5208692

What is BUFFERING? Does it mean screen freeze while trying to downloading?

Will the screen freeze if the download speed of the internet is too slow?
 
Last edited:
It sounds to me as though you are taking the advertised maximum internet speed of 25 MBPS for granted. I would be very surprised if you could count on getting the advertised speed. You should run some speed tests before you do too much planning.
 
I did more reading. For satellite internet, there is a very low data cap. Like Hughesnet, cheaper one only has 15GB. Which is very low for streaming tv. Even the more expensive has limit of 100GB.

I think now I understand why people still using DirecTV and other cable TV while streaming devices are much cheaper. Looks like it's cheaper to go to say Xfinity tv, then just keep the basic satellite internet provider for emergency. If any storm or earthquake cut off the cable tv, I can just pull out antenna to get on air local tv to watch live shows. With this arrangement, cost would be like $90 for tv, $70 for satellite internet, total of $160/mo. That is still cheaper than getting an expensive satellite internet.

Any other suggestions are welcome.

Thanks

Alan
 

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