You have a fast internet plan, but your character still lags a split second behind the action. For gamers, that delay can be the difference between winning and losing, and it often has less to do with download speed than you might think.
Chris Cholas, SVP of Product & Technology at Hotwire Communications, discussed what gamers should really pay attention to on At Home With Hotwire.
The short answer: Both speed and latency matter, but latency often matters more for online gaming. It affects how quickly your actions reach the game server and how responsive the game feels.
Latency is how long it takes data to travel from your device to another point on a network and back. It's measured in milliseconds (ms).
Speed, or bandwidth, refers to how much data your connection can handle at once. A fast connection helps with downloads and streaming, while low latency helps your actions register quickly during gameplay.
In a fast-paced online game, your actions need to reach the game server and the server's responses need to get back to you. As Chris explains in the conversation:
"It's not always about raw speed. It's actually about latency."
High latency can cause lag, delayed reactions, and moments when the game seems a step behind your actions.
For fast-paced online shooters and other competitive games, aim for under 20 milliseconds, or even under 10. Lower latency generally means a more responsive gaming experience.
Your internet connection can make a difference, too. Fiber internet can offer low latency, making it a strong option for online gaming. Your home network, equipment, and connection to the game server also affect performance.
Hotwire Communications was recognized by PCMag in its 2026 ISP rankings for gaming performance in the South Atlantic region. The rankings consider factors including latency and jitter, which measures variations in latency.
What is a good latency for gaming?
Below 20 milliseconds is a strong target for fast-paced games, and below 10 is even better. The ideal latency also depends on the game and its server.
Does faster internet lower latency?
Not necessarily. Speed and latency are different measures. Your connection type, network conditions, equipment, and distance to the game server can all affect latency.
Is a wired connection better for gaming?
Generally, yes. An Ethernet connection eliminates Wi-Fi interference and wireless signal fluctuations, making it a more consistent option for online gaming.
Watch the full conversation on YouTube for more on gaming, fiber internet, and what affects your experience online.