Getting the Best Streaming Quality on Paramount+
Whether you're watching live CBS sports or a Paramount+ original, poor streaming quality can ruin the experience. Buffering, low resolution, and audio sync issues are usually fixable with a few adjustments. Here are eight practical tips to improve your Paramount+ streaming experience.
1. Check Your Internet Speed
Streaming quality is directly tied to your internet connection speed. Paramount+ recommends the following minimum speeds:
| Quality Level | Recommended Speed |
|---|---|
| SD (Standard Definition) | 3 Mbps |
| HD (High Definition) | 8 Mbps |
| 4K / Ultra HD | 25 Mbps |
Use a free speed test at fast.com or speedtest.net to check your current speeds. If you're falling short, try the tips below.
2. Use a Wired Connection Where Possible
Wi-Fi is convenient but can be unreliable. If your streaming device supports an Ethernet connection, plug directly into your router. This reduces latency, eliminates interference, and provides a more stable connection — especially important for live streaming.
3. Move Your Router Closer or Use a Wi-Fi Extender
If a wired connection isn't an option, reduce the distance between your device and router. Walls, floors, and appliances all degrade Wi-Fi signals. A Wi-Fi range extender or a mesh network system can dramatically improve signal strength in problem areas.
4. Adjust the Video Quality Setting in the App
Paramount+ allows you to manually set your preferred video quality:
- Open the Paramount+ app and go to Settings.
- Look for Video Quality or Streaming Quality.
- Select Auto to let the app adjust based on your connection, or choose a fixed quality level.
If your internet is slow, manually selecting a lower quality can eliminate buffering entirely.
5. Close Background Apps and Devices
Other devices on your network compete for bandwidth. While streaming, try to:
- Pause large downloads or uploads on other devices.
- Close unused apps on your streaming device.
- Ask others on your network to reduce heavy usage during your viewing session.
6. Restart Your Streaming Device Regularly
Over time, streaming devices accumulate cached data and background processes that slow performance. A weekly restart helps keep things running smoothly. Most devices can be restarted from their settings menu or by unplugging the power cable for 30 seconds.
7. Keep the App and Device Firmware Updated
Outdated app versions can have bugs that cause playback issues. Always keep the Paramount+ app and your device's firmware updated to the latest version. Updates often include performance improvements and stability fixes.
8. Clear the App Cache
A bloated cache can slow down the app. On Android-based devices and some Smart TVs, you can clear the app cache from the device settings:
- Go to Settings > Apps > Paramount+.
- Select Clear Cache (not "Clear Data," which removes your sign-in).
- Relaunch the app.
On Roku and Apple TV, clearing the cache usually requires reinstalling the app.
Bonus: Enable Dolby Atmos and 4K (If Supported)
If you have a 4K TV and a compatible streaming device, make sure 4K and Dolby Atmos are enabled in both the app settings and your device's display settings. This unlocks the best possible picture and audio quality for supported titles on Paramount+.
With these tweaks, most streaming quality issues can be resolved without needing to upgrade your internet plan or buy new hardware.