Mac Wi-Fi slow but other devices are fine: what to check
Why one Mac has slow Wi-Fi while phones on the same network are fast: signal, band, VPN, DNS, background downloads and USB-C hubs.
Why is my Mac Wi-Fi slow when other devices are fine?
The Mac may be on a weaker band or channel, behind a VPN or proxy, busy with a background download, or near a USB 3 hub that interferes with 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi.
What should I check first?
- Option click Wi-Fi and compare RSSI, noise and Tx Rate: read signal strength.
- Turn off VPN and any proxy, and test again.
- Check Activity Monitor's Network tab for a large download.
- Unplug USB 3 hubs and drives near the Mac.
What if it is still slow?
Forget the network and rejoin, or try Wireless Diagnostics: Option click Wi-Fi, Open Wireless Diagnostics.
Common questions
Why is my MacBook internet slow but phone fast?
Weaker band or channel, VPN, a background download or USB 3 interference are the usual causes.
How do I fix slow Wi-Fi on Mac?
Check signal with Option click Wi-Fi, disable VPN, stop large downloads and rejoin the network.