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Why Your Smart TV's Ethernet Port May Not Be Your Best Internet Choice

Update Understanding Your TV’s Ethernet Port: The Truth Behind Connectivity When you take a look at your smart TV, you may see several ports awaiting use, and among them, the Ethernet port often lies in obscurity. For many users, this port appears to be a gateway for a stronger internet connection, but that assumption is often misleading. The reality is that, for most modern smart TVs, connecting via Wi-Fi can deliver superior speeds compared to the Ethernet port. Let’s dive deeper into this topic! Unveiling the Ethernet Limitations The majority of smart TVs feature Ethernet ports that are restricted to speeds of around 100 Mbps, more commonly referred to as 10/100 Ethernet. This may seem adequate for streaming content, but in the age of superior Wi-Fi standards, such limitations render the port underwhelming. For instance, Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6, and the latest Wi-Fi 6E can achieve significantly higher speeds, potentially doubling or tripling what the Ethernet connection provides. Users with devices equipped with Wi-Fi 6E, like the LG C5 model, have reported speeds up to 213 Mbps, surpassing Ethernet capabilities by a notable margin. Why Do Manufacturers Stick with Ethernet? Considering this inconsistency, many wonder: why don’t TV manufacturers incorporate faster Ethernet ports? The answer is primarily cost-efficiency. Streaming services generally recommend a minimum speed of 25 Mbps for smooth 4K streaming, making 100 Mbps seem like an adequate provision for manufacturers to save on costs while marketing to consumers who are less likely to challenge their network choices. Evaluating Your Connection Needs So, should you rely on your TV’s Ethernet port at all? The answer is nuanced. If your Wi-Fi connection struggles to exceed 100 Mbps or if the distance to your router is challenging, wired connections can still serve as a reliable option. However, in situations where Wi-Fi signals are optimized and capable of delivering speed over 100 Mbps consistently, utilizing Wi-Fi becomes the more effective choice. The Case for Wireless Adopting Wi-Fi connectivity does not just offer higher speeds; it also liberates your smart TV from the confinements of a cable. Many households have experienced the pressures of bandwidth congestion, particularly during peak hours when multiple devices compete for internet access. Common frustrations like buffering and delayed loading can often be resolved by unwiring your connection and enabling faster Wi-Fi access, accentuating a more enjoyable streaming experience. How to Test Your Connection If you're uncertain which connection type is best for your smart TV, a simple speed test is available within popular streaming applications like Netflix. By accessing the settings menu and selecting the option to check your network, you can assess your connection speed. If it exceeds 100 Mbps, sticking with Wi-Fi is advisable for optimal performance. Cutting the Cord: Making Better Choices Ultimately, understanding your smart TV's connectivity is crucial to enhancing your viewing experience. Ensure not to cling to outdated notions about wired connections being inherently superior. When it comes to modern smart TVs, efficient and stable Wi-Fi often wins the race against Ethernet ports. However, adopting a wired connection remains a viable option depending on unique network conditions, and a quick evaluation can make all the difference. Conclusion Whether you choose to stick with your device's Ethernet port, or embrace the versatility of Wi-Fi, the most important takeaway is to assess your individual setup and needs. By staying informed and making thoughtful decisions regarding your connectivity, you can enjoy an upgraded smart TV experience.