What can I Stream or Watch with 3G? (Complete Guide – Twitch, Netflix, YouTube)

If you want to know what can you stream or watch with a 3G connection, chances are that you simply want to watch your favorite YouTube channel, binge-watch that Netflix series or take a look at that crazy gamer on Twitch. Because if you’re looking to stream your own content with a 3G connection, then my direct advice is, don’t.

But let’s talk about that after I answer, if you can watch streaming content on the web through your 3G connection.

Can I watch YouTube with 3G?

Yes, you can. That’s the short and direct answer.

Yes, you can, but only if you’re watching a YouTube video that’s not on high resolution, and if you have a lot of cell signal bars (assuming you’re using a mobile connection). But I think that these days, YouTube already does that automatically for you.

That means, choosing the right resolution, depending on your internet connection. So if you have a slower connection, like 3G (compared to the latest 5G), YouTube is going to probably give you a more suitable video resolution. So yes, you can definitely watch YouTube with 3G.

Can I stream Netflix with 3G?

Yes, you can stream Netflix with 3G. This falls right about in the same aspects as if you were streaming YouTube with a 3G connection. The content is usually streamed in a high resolution, on Netflix, unless you have the Standard package, which only allows you to watch up to 720p.

Have you ever noticed when you’re watching Netflix at home (using your WiFi connection), and all of the sudden the video quality gets worse? Well, that’s Netflix adapting to your current speed and connection.

Sometimes we get a lot of devices connected at the same time, and that bandwidth is shared through the devices, so Netflix stream adapts its video quality, to a lower one, so you can still watch. So basically, yes, you can watch Netflix with a 3G connection.

Can I stream Twitch with 3G?

Yes, you can stream Twitch with a 3G connection. But first, let’s be clear about this. If you’re simply going to watch Twitch videos through a 3G connection, then it’s probably ok, as long as you have a good clear signal with a lot of bars, and you don’t watch it in a high resolution.

Now, if you want to stream your own content to the Twitch platform I don’t recommend using a 3G connection, because it will fail a lot of times, and harm your channel.

What’s a 3G connection?

Abbreviation for third generation, 3G is one of the latest editions of mobile telecommunications technology. 3G technology can transfer information at a rate of at least 200 kbit/s, twice as fast as 2G technologies. Most 3G providers also provide mobile broadband access to smartphones and laptops. 3G technology opens the door to mobile Internet access, fixed wireless Internet access, mobile TV and video calling.

Two major branches of cellular technology make up 3G: CDMA (code division multiple access) and GSM (global system for multiple access). These technologies are the engines that drive faster service for mobile phone users. Along with increased speed, 3G technology also prided itself on increased security.

The result of these technologies is a better user experience. Users rely on smartphones to make calls, run applications and browse the Internet. 3G networks provide the speed and reliability that modern users have come to expect. With this speed at their disposal, smartphone users can run complex applications previously only available on computers. Without this networking technology, mobile phone manufacturers would not be able to push the envelope in terms of smartphone capabilities.

Any service advertised as 3G is required to meet IMT-2000 technical standards, which requires a minimum peak data of around 0.2 Mbit/s. Vendors often use advanced 3G versions to provide 3G speeds higher than minimum requirements. In 2007, only 15.8% of mobile phone users worldwide had 3G technology. In 2012, 80 percent of the US population was using their smartphones on at least 3G service.

3G has established itself as a preferred method of mobile service around the world. As vendors continue to improve and advance this technology, they expect faster speeds, better security and more reliable coverage.

Streaming Video Quality

YouTube Video Transmission Quality

Here you can find a table with the existing YouTube video resolution quality, the required download speed that each video needs, and the minimum mobile connection you should be using.

Netflix Video Transmission Quality

Here you can find a table with the existing Netflix video resolution quality, the required download speed that each video needs, and the minimum mobile connection you should be using. Netflix only has three different kind of resolutions, which makes things easier.

Twitch Video Transmission/Streaming Quality

Here you can find a table with the existing Twitch video resolution quality, the required download/streaming bitrate that each video or stream needs, and the minimum mobile connection you should be using. You should keep in mind that this works for live streaming also, if you’re streaming your own content.