Our Methodology
At RealTimeSpeed, we believe that stability matters more than raw speed. Our platform uses two distinct, open-source algorithms to evaluate network health: The RTS Experience Score (for consumers) and the RTS Stability Index (for B2B rankings). Scores computed before July 3, 2026, use methodology v1. The formulas below represent v2.
1. The RTS Experience Score (v2)
This is the 0-100 score displayed in the RealTimeSpeed floating widget and extension. It evaluates the entire consumer experience, balancing network stability with raw throughput. A perfect score is 100, and points are deducted based on performance caps.
Stability Penalties (Max 60 points)
- Ping: -0.2 points per ms above 20ms (Max penalty: 25)
- Jitter: -0.5 points per ms above 5ms (Max penalty: 15)
- Packet Loss: -4.0 points per 1% loss (Max penalty: 20)
Throughput Penalties (Max 40 points)
- Download: -0.2 points per Mbps below 100 Mbps (Max penalty: 25)
- Upload: -0.5 points per Mbps below 20 Mbps (Max penalty: 15)
2. The RTS Stability Index
This is a throughput-blind metric (0-100) used exclusively for our global ISP rankings and B2B Jitter Log data products. It completely ignores bandwidth (Mbps) to provide a globally fair comparison of network stability, ensuring ISPs in developing markets are not arbitrarily penalized for lacking Gigabit infrastructure.
Stability Penalties (Max 100 points)
- Ping: -0.25 points per ms above 20ms (Max penalty: 30)
- Jitter: -0.75 points per ms above 5ms (Max penalty: 35)
- Packet Loss: -7.0 points per 1% loss (Max penalty: 35)
Measurement Scope
All metrics are gathered via browser-based, sustained small-transfer measurements designed to simulate real-world web browsing, video conferencing, and gaming workloads.