Wi-Fi vs. Ethernet: Which Gives Better Speed Test Results?
When running a network speed test at home, one question often comes up: should you test over Wi-Fi or use a wired (Ethernet) connection? The answer depends on what you want to measure — but generally, Ethernet delivers more consistent and accurate results.
What’s the Difference?
Wi-Fi connects your device wirelessly to your router.
Ethernet uses a physical cable to connect your device directly to the router or modem.
Both methods allow access to the internet, but they differ in speed, stability, and interference.
Ethernet: The More Accurate Option
If you’re looking for the most accurate and stable speed test, Ethernet is the better choice. Here’s why:
Stable connection: No interference from walls, signals, or other devices.
Lower latency: Less delay between data sent and received.
Consistent speeds: Full bandwidth potential of your internet plan is more likely to be reached.
Running a speed test via Ethernet helps eliminate local network issues and shows you what your connection is truly capable of.
Wi-Fi: Convenient but Variable
Wi-Fi is more convenient, especially for phones, tablets, and laptops — but it can lead to inconsistent speed test results due to:
Signal interference from walls, floors, and other electronics
Distance from the router
Network congestion if multiple devices are connected
Router quality and placement
A Wi-Fi speed test tells you how well your wireless setup is performing, which is useful — but it may not reflect the full potential of your internet plan.
When to Use Each
| Use Case | Recommended Connection |
|---|---|
| Testing your ISP’s actual speed | Ethernet |
| Measuring home Wi-Fi performance | Wi-Fi |
| Gaming or video conferencing | Ethernet (preferred) |
| Everyday browsing & streaming | Wi-Fi is fine |
Final Thoughts
For the most accurate net speed test, use an Ethernet connection. It gives you a clearer view of your real internet speed, without interference from local wireless factors.
However, testing over Wi-Fi is still valuable — especially if that’s how you normally connect. Just be aware that results may vary due to your environment and hardware.
Run both types of tests with SpeedFlux to get a full picture of your home network’s performance.