7 Ways to Monitor Internet Speed on Your Mac

Quick Summary:

1. Activity Monitor: Built-in macOS tool for basic real-time network tracking.

2. PeakHour: Advanced tool with live stats, historical data, and customizable dashboards ($12.99/year or $44.95 lifetime).

3. Bandwidth+: Free menu bar tool for quick upload/download stats.

4. Terminal Commands: Use networkquality for precise speed and latency metrics (macOS Monterey or later).

5. Web Browser Speed Tests: Easy, free tests like FAST.com for download/upload speeds.

6. ISP Tools: Verify your plan's speed directly through your provider's tools.

7. Network Speed Monitor Setup: Advanced real-time tracking of connection details.

Comparison Table:

Key Takeaways:

• Free Options: Activity Monitor, Bandwidth+, Terminal, and browser-based tests are great for quick checks.

• Advanced Insights: PeakHour offers detailed monitoring and historical data, ideal for in-depth analysis.

• ISP Tools: Use these to confirm if you're getting the speeds you're paying for.

Start with what fits your needs - whether it’s simple checks or detailed diagnostics!

How to Check Your Internet Speed on Mac

What to Look for in Mac Speed Monitoring Tools

When choosing a Mac speed monitoring tool, focus on features like live data, historical performance tracking, easy macOS integration, advanced metrics, and trial options. These elements ensure effective and user-friendly monitoring.

Real-Time Monitoring
Look for tools that provide live updates on network performance, such as bandwidth usage, download/upload speeds, and latency. Ideally, this information should be easily accessible, like in your menu bar.

Historical Data and Analysis
A good tool should allow you to track performance over time. This includes:

• Storing long-term data

• Displaying trends in an easy-to-understand format

• Exporting data for deeper analysis

• Recording both bandwidth usage and latency

User Interface and macOS Integration
The top tools are designed to work seamlessly with macOS, offering features like:

For example, PeakHour is built specifically for macOS, providing an intuitive and native experience.

Advanced Features
Choose tools that go beyond the basics. Features to look for include:

• Monitoring both incoming and outgoing bandwidth

• Detecting network topology

• Supporting protocols like UPnP and SNMP

• Alerts for hitting data limits

• Tracking latency for better connection insights

Trial Options
Before committing, use the trial period to ensure the tool works well with your setup and meets your needs.

"Visualize key Internet performance metrics in place. See the quality of connectivity between your device, router, ISP, and the wider Internet, at a glance. Spot trouble before it ruins your experience."
– PeakHour

Accurate and consistent measurements are essential for identifying and fixing network issues effectively.

1. Using Mac's Activity Monitor

Activity Monitor is a built-in tool on every Mac, offering an easy way to check your network performance without needing extra software.

Real-Time Monitoring

The Network tab in Activity Monitor provides live updates on network usage. Here’s how to access it:

1. Open Activity Monitor
   

   Go to Applications > Utilities > Activity Monitor, then click on the Network tab. You’ll see key metrics like:

   Metric	Description
   Data received/sec	Current download speed (bytes/sec)
   Data sent/sec	Current upload speed (bytes/sec)
   Packets in/sec	Rate of incoming packets
   Packets out/sec	Rate of outgoing packets

2. Show Network Activity in the Dock
   

   To display network activity in your Dock, go to View > Dock Icon > Show Network Usage.

Customization Options

Once you’ve checked the live metrics, you can tweak the view to focus on what’s important to you.

Here’s how you can adjust your setup:

• Switch between viewing Packets or Data in the activity graph.

• Add or remove columns via View > Columns to see only the details you need.

• Sort apps by bandwidth usage or 'Sent Bytes' to find apps consuming the most data.

MacPaw conducted internal testing in March 2025, analyzing 50 users across different internet plans and Mac models. The results showed a 15% average boost in available bandwidth when users closed apps consuming unnecessary bandwidth.

"Activity Monitor, built into macOS, will give you a rough overview of which apps are using your network connection, along with upload and download speed." - Igor Degtiarenko, Writer and Blogger, MacPaw

Cost (in USD)

Activity Monitor comes free with macOS, making it accessible to all Mac users.

2. PeakHour for Mac

PeakHour is designed to provide detailed, real-time insights into your network performance, seamlessly integrated with macOS.

Real-Time Monitoring

PeakHour keeps you informed about your network's performance directly from the menu bar. It tracks:

• Bandwidth usage

• Connection latency

• Network quality metrics

"Visualize key Internet performance metrics in place. See the quality of connectivity between your device, router, ISP, and the wider Internet, at a glance. Spot trouble before it ruins your experience." - PeakHour

Historical Data Access

The app doesn’t just show you what's happening now - it also logs bandwidth and latency data. This makes it easy to analyze trends over time or export the data for further use.

Customization Options

PeakHour offers a range of customization features to suit your preferences:

Cost (in USD)

You can choose between two pricing plans for PeakHour:

Both plans include full feature access, regular updates, and email support. Users also praise the development team for their responsiveness and ongoing improvements to the app.

Next, we’ll look at another tool to help you monitor your Mac's internet speed.

3. Bandwidth+ Menu Bar Tool

Bandwidth+ keeps tabs on your Mac’s network activity right from the menu bar, offering quick access to key stats.

Real-Time Monitoring

This tool gives you live updates on your network performance directly in the menu bar. It tracks essential metrics like:

• Combined Upload/Download

• Download Speed

• Upload Speed

• Overall Speed

It even monitors data usage when your Mac is connected to a Wi-Fi hotspot or tethered to an iPhone.

Customization Options

You can tweak the display settings and choose what metrics to monitor, tailoring the tool to your needs.

Cost (in USD)

Bandwidth+ is free to use, with optional in-app purchases available to support the developers:

The free version includes all core features, and tipping doesn’t unlock additional functionality. It’s simply a way to show appreciation for the app.

4. Network Speed Monitor Setup

PeakHour simplifies the process of setting up and monitoring your internet performance on a Mac. It provides real-time tools to keep track of your connection with ease.

Real-Time Monitoring

With PeakHour, you get interactive, real-time graphs right in your menu bar. These graphs track performance from your device to your router and ISP, giving you instant insights.

"You know exactly what is going on with your internet connection from up to the second 'pings' to connecting to your router with bandwidth info. Beautiful and informative." - @Go_habs_go

This immediate feedback also serves as a foundation for analyzing connection trends over time.

Historical Data Access

In addition to real-time monitoring, PeakHour allows you to access historical data. This feature helps you identify long-term trends and pinpoint any recurring issues. You can also export this data for further analysis.

If you're managing multiple devices, iCloud integration lets you monitor several Macs on the same network, providing a centralized view of your connection's performance.

Customization Options

PeakHour's interface is highly flexible, offering options like:

• Vertical or grid layouts

• Collapsible and expandable sections

• Adjustable graph sizes

• Selectable menu bar monitors

Cost (in USD)

PeakHour is available through a subscription model, which includes a free trial.

"The subscription price is reasonable. I am generally not a fan of subscriptions, but a reasonable price like this and you can pick longer term generally makes it easier to accept." - @gsu4

5. Terminal Speed Check Commands

If you're a Mac user with macOS Monterey or later, you can use Terminal to check your internet speed directly.

Real-Time Monitoring

To get started, open Terminal (located in Applications > Utilities). Type networkquality -v and press Enter. This command provides real-time data on your download and upload speeds, latency, and overall connection quality.

It runs tests using Apple's content delivery network, giving you a clear picture of how your network is performing.

Customization Options

You can adjust the command to suit your needs with these options:

• networkquality -s: Runs the tests sequentially.

• Skip the -v flag for simpler results.

• Check more options by typing man networkquality in Terminal.

The command delivers detailed insights, such as:

• Upload and download flow data

• Network responsiveness

• In-depth performance stats

• Current connection status in real time

This tool is a handy way to monitor and analyze your network performance directly from your Mac.

6. Web Browser Speed Tests

Web browser speed tests allow you to measure your Mac's internet performance directly through your browser - no extra software needed. They quickly provide key connection stats, making it easy to assess your network's performance.

Real-Time Metrics

These tests give you instant insights into:

• Download and upload speeds: How fast you can send and receive data.

• Latency (ping): The time it takes for data to travel to a server and back.

• Packet loss and jitter: Indicators of connection quality and stability.

For the best results, close unnecessary apps and tabs, and use a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi.

Server Selection and Customization

You can often choose a nearby server to ensure more accurate results.

"We want our members to have a simple, quick, ad-free way to estimate the Internet speed that their ISP is providing." – FAST.com

Tracking Past Results

Some platforms save your previous test data, helping you:

• Monitor performance trends over time.

• Identify peak usage hours.

• Compare speeds across different days or times.

• Share documented issues with your ISP if needed.

Pro tip: Test your speeds at various times of the day to identify patterns and pinpoint when slowdowns occur.

Cost (in USD)

Most browser-based speed tests are completely free. While some advanced features or detailed historical tracking might require a paid subscription, the basic functionality is available at no cost.

Tips for Accurate Results:

1. Time of day: Speeds can fluctuate depending on network congestion.

2. VPN usage: Turn off VPNs during testing to avoid skewed results.

3. Connected devices: Disconnect unnecessary devices to reduce interference.

Keep in mind that your actual speeds might not match what your ISP advertises. If your speeds consistently fall short, it may be time to contact your provider for assistance.

7. ISP Speed Check Tools

Many internet service providers (ISPs) offer free tools to test your connection's performance. These tools help verify if you're getting the speeds promised in your plan and measure factors like upload/download speeds and latency. They serve as a useful complement to browser-based or local tests.

Real-Time Monitoring

ISP speed check tools analyze your connection by:

• Measuring upload and download speeds

• Comparing the results to your subscribed plan

• Reporting latency, which is crucial for activities like gaming or video calls

For smooth performance, latency should typically range from just a few milliseconds to a few tens of milliseconds, depending on your usage needs.

Additional Features

Many ISP tools also include helpful features, such as:

• The ability to reset your connection remotely through the ISP's website

• Access to automated troubleshooting tools for quick fixes

These features are included in your subscription at no extra cost.

Cost (in USD)

These tools are provided for free as part of your internet service package, making them a convenient option for monitoring and troubleshooting your connection.

Before using these tools for troubleshooting:

• Check your ISP's status page to see if there are any reported outages.

• Try resetting your connection remotely before reaching out to customer support.

These tools give you a clearer view of your internet's performance by analyzing your connection directly through your ISP's network.

Speed Monitoring Tools at a Glance

Here's a quick comparison of seven tools to help you monitor internet performance on your Mac. Each option has its own set of features, so you can choose the one that fits your needs.

This table outlines each tool's capabilities. Below are deeper insights to help you decide.

Key Insights

PeakHour stands out with advanced live monitoring and historical data analysis. Unlike basic tools like Activity Monitor, which comes pre-installed on macOS, PeakHour offers a more comprehensive look at your network performance.

PeakHour gathers bandwidth data directly from routers and modems, providing details that other tools can't. For $12.99/year, it includes customizable dashboards, detailed logs, iCloud syncing for multiple devices, and support for SNMP/UPnP protocols.

For macOS Monterey users, the Terminal app introduces the networkQuality command. This tool measures RPM (round-trips per minute), offering a more precise way to evaluate network responsiveness.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

Free tools like Activity Monitor and Terminal are adequate for occasional checks. However, if you need continuous monitoring and in-depth insights, PeakHour’s features make its subscription worthwhile. Browser-based tests and ISP tools are handy for quick speed checks and verifying your internet service.

How to Get Accurate Speed Test Results

Getting accurate speed test results requires proper preparation and timing. Follow these steps to ensure your measurements reflect your internet connection's actual performance.

Prepare Your Environment

Start by connecting your Mac directly to your modem or router using an Ethernet cable. Then, take these steps to eliminate interference:

• Close any unnecessary apps and browser windows.

• Disconnect or turn off other devices using the same network.

• Restart your modem or router to refresh the connection.

• Clear your browser cache if you're using a browser-based test.

Once your environment is ready, focus on testing at the right time.

Choose the Right Time

Timing matters because internet speeds can vary throughout the day due to network traffic. For the best results, test during low-traffic hours.

"Regardless of the day of the week, early birds get the worm when it comes to the fastest internet download speeds. Our data indicated that the hours between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m. had the fastest download speeds. This time of day is when fewer people are online, so there is more bandwidth for individual users."
– Lisa Iscrupe, Writer, Broadband & Data Content

Best Testing Windows

Day-of-Week Considerations

The day of the week can also influence your speed test results. Here's what the data shows:

• Wednesday through Friday: Average download speed is around 113 Mbps.

• Weekends: Speeds drop slightly, ranging between 109 and 112 Mbps.

• Mid-week: Upload speeds tend to be better, averaging between 42 and 43 Mbps.

Expert Testing Protocol

"While you probably already thought of this one, it's the most important rule to remember when testing your internet speed: don't use the internet while you're testing it."

For the most accurate results, use an HTML5-based speed test through browsers like Safari or Chrome. These tests don't require additional plugins and provide reliable measurements.

Conclusion

Keeping track of your Mac's internet speed doesn't have to be difficult. Whether you're a casual user or an IT professional, there's an option that suits your skill level and requirements.

If you're just starting out, macOS's Activity Monitor is a simple, no-cost way to check basic network activity. For a quick and easy solution, web-based speed tests are another great option that requires little to no technical know-how.

For those who need more detailed insights, menu bar tools like PeakHour provide real-time monitoring and additional features. Priced at $12.99 per year or $44.95 for a one-time purchase, it includes features like customizable dashboards and historical data tracking - perfect for users who want continuous updates.

Advanced users or IT professionals can take advantage of macOS Monterey's networkQuality tool in Terminal. This built-in command-line option offers precise connection performance metrics without the need for third-party software.

Here are a few tips to ensure accurate speed monitoring:

• Use an Ethernet connection for more stable and reliable results.

• Test your network during off-peak hours (5 a.m. – 9 a.m.) for a clearer picture of your connection.

• Choose a tool that matches your needs, whether it's basic traffic monitoring or in-depth network analysis.

• Make sure the tool measures both download and upload speeds effectively.

FAQs

What’s the best way to monitor internet speed on my Mac based on my needs?

The best tool for monitoring internet speed on your Mac depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a powerful, customizable way to track key performance metrics in real time, PeakHour is a dedicated tool designed specifically for this purpose. It allows you to easily visualize your internet activity and troubleshoot connectivity issues.

For a quick check using built-in macOS features, the Activity Monitor can help you identify whether your Mac, a specific app, or your network is causing slowdowns. Both options let you assess your connection and ensure your internet is performing as expected.

What makes using a paid tool like PeakHour better than free options for monitoring internet speed?

Paid tools like PeakHour stand out by offering advanced features and greater flexibility compared to free options. With PeakHour, you can track internet performance in real-time through detailed, interactive graphs, and monitor both current and historical data for deeper insights. It also supports advanced protocols like UPnP and SNMP, enabling precise monitoring of network devices.

Additionally, PeakHour provides customizable displays, allowing you to tailor the way key metrics appear in your menu bar. Its robust logging and usage tracking features make it an excellent choice for users who need reliable and detailed network performance data. If you're serious about monitoring and optimizing your internet speed, PeakHour delivers the tools you need to stay in control.

Can I check my internet speed on my Mac without downloading extra software?

Yes, you can easily monitor your internet speed on your Mac without installing additional software. The built-in Activity Monitor app lets you track your network activity in real time. Simply open Activity Monitor, go to the Network tab, and you’ll see detailed information about your data usage and connection speed.

This is a simple and reliable way to get a quick overview of your network performance without needing any third-party tools.