Netflix has revolutionized how we consume entertainment, allowing us to immerse ourselves in a world of binge-worthy TV shows and movies. But have you ever wondered just how much data Netflix uses? Whether you're traveling or simply trying to manage your data usage, it's important to understand how streaming services like Netflix can impact your data plan. In this post, we'll explore how much data Netflix uses and share some valuable tips to help you use less data while enjoying your favorite shows.
How Much Data Does Netflix Consume?
When it comes to streaming video content, data usage can vary depending on several factors, such as video quality and the length of your viewing session. Here's a breakdown of how much data Netflix consumes per hour of streaming:
- Standard Definition (SD):If you're watching Netflix in standard definition, you can expect it to use approximately 1 GB of data per hour. This is a good option if you're on a limited data plan or looking to conserve data.
- High Definition (HD):Streaming in high definition will use around 3 GB of data per hour. While the picture quality is significantly better, it's important to keep an eye on your data usage, especially if you're traveling or have a data cap.
- Ultra High Definition (UHD):If you have a UHD subscription and a compatible television, streaming in ultra-high definition can use up to 7 GB of data per hour. This option is ideal for those with unlimited data plans or strong Wi-Fi connections.
How to Check Netflix Data Usage on Your Device
To monitor the amount of data Netflix uses on your device, follow these steps.
On an iPhone:
- Go toSettings>Cellular
- Scroll down to Netflix
- Check the data usage under "Current Period"
On an Android device:
- Go toSettings>Apps
- Select Netflix
- Check data usage under "Usage"
How to Use Less Data While Streaming Netflix
Now that you know how much data Netflix uses, let's explore some practical tips to help you optimize your data usage:
Adjust Video Quality Settings
By default, Netflix automatically selects the best video quality based on your internet connection. However, you can manually adjust the video quality to a lower tier by visiting the "Account" section on Netflix's website. Opting for SD rather than HD or UHD can significantly reduce data consumption.
Download Content for Offline Viewing
Before embarking on your travels, consider downloading your favorite shows and movies for offline viewing. This way, you can enjoy your entertainment without eating into your data plan.
Monitor and Manage Data Usage
Most smartphones and tablets provide data usage tracking features, allowing you to monitor how much data you consume while streaming Netflix. Set usage limits or receive notifications when you're approaching your data cap to avoid any surprises on your monthly bill.
Use Wi-Fi Networks
Whenever possible, connect to a stable Wi-Fi network to stream Netflix. Wi-Fi networks generally do not count towards your mobile data usage, allowing you to stream without worrying about data consumption.
Avoid Data Roaming Fees With an eSIM
It's easy to rack up roaming fees abroad — especially if you're binge-watching your favorite Netflix series. Luckily, an eSIM can give you access to affordable data without the hassle of unexpected roaming charges!
With an eSIM from Airalo, you pay for the data you need upfront. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges. And there's no need to miss an episode — if you run low on data, you can easily top up in the Airalo app. Sounds good, right?
Find an eSIM for your next adventure on theAiralo websiteor app (App Store|Google Play Store).
Alisha Whitley
Alisha is a Canadian expat based in Portugal. She’s an avid traveler and writes about all things travel and tech for Airalo.
FAQs
Standard Definition (SD): If you're watching Netflix in standard definition, you can expect it to use approximately 1 GB of data per hour. This is a good option if you're on a limited data plan or looking to conserve data. High Definition (HD): Streaming in high definition will use around 3 GB of data per hour.
How many GB is a 2 hour movie on Netflix? ›
If you are using Netflix to stream a two hour movie then you will use about 2 GB in SD. You will use about 6 GB to stream in HD or 14 GB for a two hour movie in 4K.
Is it better to download or stream Netflix on data? ›
To get high-quality videos with low speed: Watch offline: Netflix gives you the option to download movies and watch them offline on select mobile devices. This is a good option if you have an unlimited data limit but a slow connection.
How much data does Netflix save data use? ›
Save Data: Watch about 6 hours per GB of data. Maximum Data: Highest possible quality for your device and the TV show or movie you're watching. Can use 1 GB per 20 minutes or more, depending on your device and network speed.
How long will 100GB of data last watching Netflix? ›
You could view approximately 30 hours of high-quality streamed video with 100GB of data. So that's approximately one hour per day. However, if you watch in standard or low resolution, you can stream much, much more, with Netflix's low-quality level allowing for approximately 600 hours of streaming with 100GB of data.
How to reduce data usage on Netflix? ›
By default, Netflix automatically selects the best video quality based on your internet connection. However, you can manually adjust the video quality to a lower tier by visiting the "Account" section on Netflix's website. Opting for SD rather than HD or UHD can significantly reduce data consumption.
Which uses more data, streaming or downloading? ›
How much data does video streaming use? While streaming movies won't store any hard files on your personal device, it uses about the same amount of data that downloading does. Typically, a 30-minute Netflix television show uses anywhere from 3 to 7 GB depending on video quality.
Does downloading on Netflix save data? ›
You might be wondering if downloading episodes on Netflix uses data. The short answer: yes. Depending on your viewing habits, streaming vs. downloading Netflix has the same data usage.
Can you watch Netflix without using data? ›
You can watch TV shows and movies offline at any time by downloading them from the Netflix app. Learn more about finding, downloading, and watching downloaded TV shows and movies below.
Does Netflix drain a lot of data? ›
According to Netflix, you use about 1GB of data per hour for streaming a TV show or movie in standard definition and up to 3GB of data per hour when streaming HD video. Nevertheless, you can change the data usage settings in your Netflix account to reduce the bandwidth Netflix uses and hence lower data consumption.
How to Change Video Quality on Netflix
- Click the profile icon in the top right corner.
- Select Account.
- Click the profile whose video quality settings you want to change.
- Click Change next to Playback Settings.
- Click the button next to the video quality you want to use on all of your devices and click Save.
Automatic – Netflix will select a data usage setting that balances data usage with good video quality. Currently, this will allow you to watch about four hours per GB of data. Wi-Fi Only – You will only be able to stream on the device while connected to Wi-Fi.
How much data do I need to stream TV for a month? ›
How much internet data you need
| Internet activity | Minimum recommended data per month |
|---|
| Streaming video in HD | 300GB |
| Making video calls on Zoom | 60GB |
| Running home security cameras | 30GB–300GB (depending on video resolution and frequency of activity captured by the cameras) |
| Online gaming | 30GB |
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A 1080p HD 60 fps 2-hour movie averages 6 GB in file size. A 1080p HD 30 fps 2-hour movie averages 3 GB in file size. A 720p HD 2-hour movie averages 2 GB in file size. A Standard Definition (SD) 2-hour movie averages 1 GB in file size.
Is unlimited data really unlimited? ›
Simply, throttling means limiting how fast you can access something when online. In the end, unlimited data isn't really unlimited. You may want to look into the details of the plan before signing up as most internet service providers impose a few limits as mentioned above.
How many GB is unlimited data? ›
Unlimited data plans do not place a cap on data usage, which means there is no limit to how much data you can use. The only restriction will be how fast you can download it, which will depend on the strength of the local cellular service.
How many GB of data does a 2 hour movie use? ›
A 4K 30 fps 2-hour movie averages 14 GB in file size. (30 fps is the standard frame rate for most movies in the United States.) A 1080p HD 60 fps 2-hour movie averages 6 GB in file size. A 1080p HD 30 fps 2-hour movie averages 3 GB in file size.
How many GB is 1 hour of Netflix? ›
According to Netflix, you use about 1GB of data per hour for streaming a TV show or movie in standard definition and up to 3GB of data per hour when streaming HD video.
How long will 2GB of data last on Netflix? ›
Netflix say that viewing in High Definition (HD) uses 3GB per hour, while Standard Definition (SD) uses 0.7GB per hour. With some modern films (such as Star Wars: The Last Jedi) lasting as long as two and a half hours that means, even at SD, it would take over 2GB of data to watch the whole movie.
