The NBA app and NBA.com requires a broadband internet connection (DSL/cable or higher) of 800 kbps or higher in order to access content. For the best viewing experience and highest video quality, we recommend an internet connection of 3 Mbps or higher, along with a device that meets the requirements outlined below.
How fast does my internet need to be to watch NBA games?
NBA.com and the NBA app require a broadband internet connection (DSL/cable or higher) of 800 kbps or higher to access content. The NBA recommends 3 Mbps or higher for higher video quality.
| Internet speed | What the NBA says |
|---|---|
| 800 kbps or higher | Minimum connection speed to access NBA.com and NBA app content |
| 3 Mbps or higher | Recommended for higher video quality |
What Windows or Mac computer and browser do I need to watch NBA games?
To watch NBA games on a computer, use a Windows or Mac computer that meets the minimum requirements for its platform. Use the latest version of one of the listed browsers.
| Requirement | Windows computer | Mac computer |
|---|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 10 or later, 32-bit or 64-bit | Mac OS X v11 or later |
| Processor | 2.33 GHz or faster x86-compatible processor, for netbooks, Intel® Atom™ 1.6 GHz or faster | Intel Core™ Duo 1.83 GHz or faster |
| RAM | 512 MB; 1 GB recommended for netbooks | 512 MB |
| Graphics memory | 128 MB | 128 MB |
| Browser | Latest version of Google Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, or Opera | Latest version of Google Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Safari, or Opera |
On Windows, features can work with 512 MB of RAM, but playback at higher bitrates may be affected. Meeting the minimum computer requirements does not guarantee identical playback across devices.
Why might NBA games not play properly on my computer?
Live and archived NBA video playback may vary between devices, even when they meet the minimum requirements, because hardware configurations and operating system compatibility differ. Use the latest browser and operating system versions on your computer for better playback.
If you still have trouble viewing content, see Troubleshooting Streaming Issues or email NBA support with your device details and a description of the issue.
Where can I check the NBA app requirements for other devices?
For the NBA app’s supported devices and minimum operating system versions, see Supported Devices & Requirements.