Buzz
Google Stadia is set to launch this week, offering its ever-expanding game collection to televisions, computers, and mobile devices via streaming technology. However, streaming often demands a robust internet connection. Our goal is to evaluate how Stadia performs across different wireless and wired setups commonly found in households.
Google states that a 10Mbps connection is sufficient for 720p gameplay on Stadia, while 4K resolution at 60 frames per second requires a 35Mbps connection. But does Stadia truly deliver under these conditions?
After personally testing Stadia, I can confirm that Google’s claims are largely accurate, though there are some limitations. To systematically assess Stadia’s performance, I measured network speeds while using the platform on various compatible devices at home. I tested two of Stadia’s most demanding launch titles, Destiny 2 and Mortal Kombat 11, both with and without concurrent downloads.
To begin, let me share some details about my setup. I use Verizon Fiber, specifically their “75/75” internet plan, which offers 75 Mbps for both download and upload speeds. Instead of relying on Verizon’s standard router, I’ve opted for a Netgear Orbi RBR50 mesh network, which supports 3x3 wireless-ac. This setup provides more than enough bandwidth to ensure Stadia operates smoothly without interruptions.
Chromecast Ultra, wired connection
Stadia displays one of four connection statuses when you check your network performance.
Excellent: Capable of supporting 4K resolution.
Good: A stable connection that can handle gameplay at 1080p.
OK: The connection is weak or unstable, causing resolution to vary between 720p and 1080p.
Game Might Stop: The connection is insufficient to support gameplay, leading to potential interruptions.
Google recommends using the Chromecast Ultra included in the Stadia Founder’s Pack, connected to your home network via an ethernet cable, for the best experience. During my testing, a hardwired Chromecast Ultra consistently delivered an “excellent” rating, enabling smooth 4K gameplay. However, when I began streaming Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube on a nearby Windows desktop, the gaming performance became inconsistent.
Test 1: Destiny 2
Speeds: 91.72Mbps down / 120.66Mbps up
Status: Excellent (4K)
Test 2: Destiny 2 while streaming Disney+ on a PC
Speeds: 77.75Mbps down / 121.07Mbps up
Status: “Game Might Stop”
Test 3: Destiny 2 while streaming Netflix on a PC
Speeds: 84.34Mbps Down / 120.88Mbps Up
Status: “Good” (1080p)
As evident, the connection quality on both devices deteriorated once I introduced another moderately demanding activity to my network. However, only the resolution in my game was affected; there were no instances of stuttering or texture-related problems. More noticeable issues arose in multiplayer-heavy areas, such as when navigating Destiny 2’s central hub.
Chromecast Ultra, wireless connection
Test 1: Stadia Menu (No game running) with Netflix streaming on PC
Speeds: 100.80 down / 121.50 up
Status: Excellent (4K)
Test 2: Destiny 2
Speeds: 59.49Mbps down / 119.05Mbps up
Status: Good (1080p)
Using the Chromecast over Wi-Fi performed better than expected. With the Chromecast placed just 5 feet from the router, the connection remained stable, delivering the same quality as when I played over Ethernet while downloading files. The connection mostly stayed at “good,” ensuring consistent 1080p gameplay. Occasionally, the system upgraded to 4K, but this often caused issues like blurry textures and audio desynchronization.
My recommendation: If you’re not using a wired connection, set your data usage to “balanced” to prevent Stadia from forcing 4K resolution unnecessarily. While you might not achieve top resolution, your gameplay will be smoother and more reliable.
Stadia streaming on a laptop, wired connection
For the PC streaming evaluation, I utilized multiple devices: a custom-built Windows desktop and a 2013 MacBook Pro (shown). The data provided is from the MacBook Pro, tested near my router. However, my observations are based on using it in various rooms across my home, including areas on different floors from the routers.
Test 1: Mortal Kombat 11
Speeds: 89.97Mbps down / 119.67Mbps up
Status: Good
Test 2: Mortal Kombat 11 + Netflix (same device)
Speeds: 96.60Mbps down / 121.01Mbps up
Status: Good
Laptop, wireless connection
Test 1: Destiny 2 + Netflix (same device)
Speeds: 79.69Mbps down / 120.55Mbps up
Status: Good
Test 2: Mortal Kombat 11 + Netflix (same device)
Speeds: 77.72Mbps down / 120.12Mbps up
Status: Good
Playing on a PC was largely comparable to using a Chromecast. Since 4K streaming isn’t available through the Stadia web app at launch, the best you can achieve is a “good” 1080p connection. I noticed a few more visual glitches on PC, especially over Wi-Fi, such as increased pop-in and blurry textures on highly detailed objects like weapons in Destiny 2. While it’s a viable way to play, it’s clear why Google recommends using the Chromecast as the primary option.
Each issue served as a reminder that I was using a gaming PC capable of outperforming Stadia. This was the underlying theme throughout my testing. Consoles like the PS4 and Xbox One, as well as most gaming PCs, deliver more consistent performance at similar resolutions when games are installed locally, without being affected by external factors like Netflix streaming.
Stadia streaming on a Smartphone, Wi-Fi connection
Test 1: Destiny 2
Speeds: 100.0Mbps down / 127.0Mbps up
Status: Good
Test 2: Destiny 2 + YouTube on PC
Speeds: 100.00Mbps down / 130.0Mbps up
Status: Good
I was genuinely impressed by how smoothly Stadia performed on the Pixel 3a XL. On its 6-inch display, both games appeared exceptionally sharp, delivering a console-like experience in terms of visuals and performance. The gameplay was fluid, with no technical hiccups. While I tested it at home with ample bandwidth, it’s worth noting that Stadia might shine brightest on a smartphone, at least from a technical perspective.
Smartphone, burning through my data plan
At launch, Google Stadia does not support gameplay over cellular data. Despite this restriction, I attempted to play. Instead of the usual play button, Stadia displayed a “connection” button with three bars, which redirected to a support page that was unavailable before launch.
In summary, Google Stadia performs well if you have sufficient bandwidth, though it’s less consistent than traditional consoles or PCs. Additionally, the system can be temperamental when combined with other online activities, which is inevitable in households with multiple users or constant internet usage—even with a high-speed connection.
While this might improve over time, the reality is that Stadia currently falls short of competing with consoles or even an affordable gaming PC. Although Stadia functions well and delivers decent visuals, it aims to match the performance and quality of a PS4 or Xbox One. These consoles, however, offer more consistent performance without consuming your data allowance. Stadia shows promise, but until it becomes more reliable, cloud gaming can’t replace the convenience of owning physical hardware.
