Fix: Netflix Video Is Slow Or Choppy - Streamers World

If Netflix is slow or choppy, there are many variables that could be causing the problem. Here are a few troubleshooting steps you can use to see what’s causing Netflix to display video poorly.

In This Guide

• 1. Reset Netflix
• 2. Reset Network Equipment
• 3. Check Your Internet Speed
• 4. Switch to Google’s Public DNS
• 5. Update Audio & Video Drivers (Windows)
• 6. Upgrade Software
• 7. Ensure You’re Using a 5GHz Wi-Fi Network

1. Reset Netflix

If you’re using a web browser, try closing completely out of all browser windows, then reload Netflix. If you’re using an app on a device like an iPhone, or Android device, close completely out of the app, then try again.

If you’re watching Netflix from a Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, or other streaming device, go to the main screen of Netflix and select “Get Help” > “Reload Netflix“.

If the steps above don’t work, try restarting the device completely by powering it off, then back on again.

2. Reset Network Equipment

Sometimes, equipment like your wireless router or cable modem needs a refresh. Try resetting these items to see if it helps. If you can’t figure out a way to reset this equipment, you can usually just unplug the device, wait a few seconds, then plug the device back in.

3. Check Your Internet Speed

From a PC that’s connected to the same network you are using Netflix on, use a service like SpeedTest.net to see how fast your connection is performing, and if it is performing as it should. Make the speed you can achieve matches how fast of an Internet connection you need for the video quality you have set on your Netflix account. You may have to login to your Netflix account, then go to “Account” > select profile > “Playback settings” and lower the “Data Usage” setting to “Low” or “Medium“.

If you’re not getting the connection speeds you think you should, ensure that there is nothing connected to your network that should be using up the bandwidth. Otherwise, contact your Internet service provider to see if there is a problem on their end.

4. Switch to Google’s Public DNS

I’m not sure if ISPs are limiting bandwidth somehow via their DNS servers, but I’ve seen many instances where switching the DNS server over to Google Public DNS has worked miracles for Netflix connections.

Access your router settings and change the Primary and Secondary DNS to “8.8.8.8” and “8.8.4.4” respectively. For more information, visit Google’s Public DNS page.

5. Update Audio & Video Drivers (Windows)

If you’re using a Windows PC, ensure you have the latest and best version of audio and video drivers installed for your sound card and video card hardware. You may have to check the computer manufacturer’s website to update to the latest drivers. Drivers automatically provided by Microsoft don’t always work the best.

6. Upgrade Software

If you’re using a device such as a Roku, Android, or iPhone, ensure that you have the latest version of the Netflix software installed.

7. Ensure You’re Using a 5GHz Wi-Fi Network

If the device you’re watching Netflix on is utilizing wireless, ensure that it is connected to a 5GHz. 2.4GHz networks are everywhere and have lots of interference.

Have you solved problems with Netflix video performance? Please share your experience in the comments section.