Bitrate is the amount of data used or transferred per unit of time. In media, it often describes an encoded audio or video stream rather than the maximum speed of an internet package. It can be fixed or variable, and higher values do not automatically produce a better picture across different codecs and source material.
A practical example
A programme with complex movement may require more encoded data than a static studio shot at the same resolution. The network needs to deliver the actual stream demand steadily enough for the player's buffer, including other traffic sharing the connection.
A common misunderstanding
Keep bits and bytes distinct when comparing figures. Also avoid treating a speed test's headline result as a continuous guarantee of delivery from every media server.
Related terms
Stable technical definition. Editorial approach