Internet Cost Calculator Canada
🧮 Calculate Your Perfect Internet Plan
Answer these questions about your household:
✅ Your Recommended Internet Plan
Why this speed?
📡 Best ISP Options for You:
1. Test your current speed to see if you’re getting what you pay for
2. Click the ISP links above to read detailed reviews
3. Check availability at your postal code on each ISP’s website
4. Compare pricing and sign up for the best deal!
How the Calculator Works
Our calculator uses industry-standard formulas to determine your internet needs:
• Base speed: 25 Mbps per person
• Work from home: +25 Mbps per person (for video calls)
• 4K streaming: +10-25 Mbps depending on number of streams
• Gaming: +25-50 Mbps for serious gamers
• Buffer: ×1.2 for network congestion and future growth
Understanding Your Results
Speed Recommendations Explained
| Speed Range | Best For | What You Can Do |
|---|---|---|
| 25-75 Mbps | 1-2 people, light use | Email, browsing, SD/HD streaming on 1 device |
| 100-150 Mbps | 2-3 people, moderate use | HD streaming, video calls, light gaming |
| 200-300 Mbps | 3-4 people, heavy use | Multiple HD/4K streams, gaming, 2 people WFH |
| 500 Mbps | 4-5 people, very heavy use | Multiple 4K streams, serious gaming, 3+ WFH |
| 1000 Mbps (1 Gbps) | 5+ people, power users | Everything simultaneously, large file downloads |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this calculator accurate?
Yes! It uses the same formulas that ISPs and internet experts use to calculate bandwidth needs. However, every household is different—if you’re experiencing slowdowns with the recommended speed, you may need to go up one tier.
What if I’m between two speed tiers?
We recommend going with the higher tier. The price difference is usually only $10-20/month, and you’ll avoid frustration from buffering or slow downloads. It’s easier to downgrade later than to suffer with slow internet.
Can I save money by downgrading?
If the calculator recommends a lower speed than what you currently have, you could potentially save $20-40/month by downgrading. First, test your current speed and monitor your usage for a week to confirm.
Does upload speed matter?
Yes, especially if you work from home! Your video quality on Zoom/Teams depends on upload speed. Fibre internet (Bell Fibe, Telus PureFibre) offers symmetric speeds (same up and down), which is ideal for WFH. Cable internet has much lower upload speeds.
What about WiFi vs Ethernet?
These recommendations assume WiFi. For best performance on work computers or gaming consoles, use Ethernet cables when possible. You’ll get 20-50% faster speeds with a wired connection.
Are these prices guaranteed?
Prices are estimates based on current 2026 rates and vary by region and promotions. Always check the ISP’s website for current pricing at your postal code. Prices typically change annually (usually increase $2-5/month).
What if I live in a rural area?
If cable and fibre aren’t available at your postal code, Starlink satellite internet is your best option. It offers 100-400 Mbps speeds anywhere in Canada with a clear view of the sky.
Can I use this for business internet?
This calculator is designed for residential users. Businesses should consider higher speeds, dedicated connections, and business-class service with SLAs. See our business internet guides for recommendations.
Compare ISPs in Your Area
Once you know what speed you need, compare these major Canadian ISPs:
- Bell Fibe Review – Fibre internet across Ontario and Quebec
- Rogers Ignite Review – Cable internet across most of Canada
- Telus PureFibre Review – Fibre internet in BC and Alberta
- Shaw Internet Review – Western Canada (now part of Rogers)
- Starlink Review – Satellite internet for rural Canada
City-specific guides:
Ready to Test Your Current Speed?
Before switching ISPs or plans, test your current internet speed to see if you’re getting what you pay for. If you’re consistently getting less than 70% of your advertised speed, contact your ISP or consider switching.