diff --git a/lib_nrf24.py b/lib_nrf24.py
index bfd5f7c..60bd6fc 100644
--- a/lib_nrf24.py
+++ b/lib_nrf24.py
@@ -371,6 +371,7 @@ def begin(self, csn_pin, ce_pin=0):   # csn & ce are RF24 terminology. csn = SPI
         # CE optional (at least in some circumstances, eg fixed PTX PRX roles, no powerdown)
         # CE seems to hold itself as (sufficiently) HIGH, but tie HIGH is safer!
         self.spidev.open(0, csn_pin)
+        self.spidev.max_speed_hz = 4000000
         self.ce_pin = ce_pin
 
         if ce_pin: