Understanding Netflix Data Usage
Netflix data usage refers to the amount of data consumed by the Netflix app when streaming content on various devices. The data usage depends on several factors, including the streaming resolution, video quality, and device type. Understanding Netflix data usage is essential to manage your data plan effectively, especially if you have a limited data allowance. By being aware of how much data Netflix uses, you can make informed decisions about your streaming habits and avoid unexpected charges. Whether you’re watching on a smartphone, tablet, or smart TV, knowing the data consumption can help you optimize your viewing experience without exceeding your data limits.
How much data does Netflix use?
More than 260 million people have an account on Netflix. All of these people use data while streaming Netflix. Netflix has become a big part of many people’s daily entertainment. But have you ever wondered how much data you use while watching your favorite show or movie? In this blog, you will learn everything you need to know about how much data Netflix uses, and we will give you some tips on how to use less data while streaming on Netflix. And a smart way to watch Netflix while you are travelling.
Data breakdown
Netflix allows you to watch videos in different resolutions. When watching a video, you essentially see a lot of pixels. Higher resolutions display more pixels, resulting in a sharper and more detailed image. While higher resolutions offer a better viewing experience, they also come with increased data consumption. Below is a breakdown of the average data usage for Netflix at different resolutions:
For users with unlimited data plans, selecting the maximum data setting can provide the highest video quality, consuming around 1 GB of data every 20 minutes or more, depending on device and network speed.
Netflix Data Consumption on Different Devices
Netflix data consumption can vary significantly depending on the device you use. Here’s a comparison of Netflix data consumption on different devices:
Smartphones: Data usage ranges from 300 MB to 700 MB per hour, depending on the streaming resolution. Ideal for on-the-go viewing with lower data consumption.
Tablets: Consumes between 700 MB and 1.5 GB per hour. Tablets offer a larger screen than smartphones, which can enhance the viewing experience but also increase data usage.
Smart TVs: Uses approximately 1.5 GB to 3 GB per hour. Smart TVs provide a high-quality viewing experience, making them suitable for home entertainment but with higher data consumption.
Laptops: Similar to smart TVs, data usage ranges from 1.5 GB to 3 GB per hour. Laptops offer flexibility in viewing locations while maintaining good video quality.
Considering the device type when managing your Netflix data usage can help you make more informed decisions and optimize your data consumption based on your viewing preferences and data plan.
How much data does Netflix use?
Streaming on Netflix at 480p uses about 300 MB per hour, while streaming in 4K uses around 7 GB per hour. Watching a two-hour movie in SD would consume approximately 600 MB, while in 4K it would be around 14 GB. For those with an unlimited data plan, streaming in 4K offers the best video quality without worrying about data limits. There are a few reasons for the difference between resolutions. As mentioned earlier, a higher resolution means more pixels. For example, when you watch a movie in 720p, you have 1280x720 pixels. When you watch a movie in 4K, you have 3840x2160 pixels. All these pixels need to be downloaded so you can see them on your screen, which is one reason a higher resolution uses more data. Another reason is that Netflix uses a higher bitrate for higher resolutions. The bitrate increases to maintain good image quality. Bitrate refers to the amount of data being transmitted per second. This means that when the bitrate is higher, more data needs to be downloaded every second.
Netflix Data Usage by Streaming Resolution
Netflix offers various streaming resolutions, each with a different data usage rate. Here’s a breakdown of Netflix data usage by streaming resolution:
480p (Standard Definition): Approximately 300 MB per hour. Ideal for those looking to save data without compromising too much on video quality.
720p (High Definition): Around 700 MB per hour. A good balance between video quality and data consumption.
1080p (Full High Definition): About 3 GB per hour. Provides a high-quality viewing experience but uses significantly more data.
4K (Ultra High Definition): Roughly 7 GB per hour. Offers the best video quality but at the highest data cost.
These rates are approximate and can vary depending on your device and internet connection. By selecting the appropriate streaming resolution, you can manage your data usage more effectively and enjoy your favorite shows and movies without worrying about exceeding your data plan.
How to save data while using Netflix
Streaming your favorite shows and movies on Netflix can consume a significant amount of data, but there are several ways to reduce data usage without compromising your viewing experience. Here are a few tips to help you save data:
Adjust Data Usage Settings: Netflix allows you to customize how much data you use while streaming. To adjust your data settings, follow these steps:
Open the Netflix app
Tap on “My Netflix” at the bottom right corner
Tap on the Menu at the top right
Select “App Settings”
Tap on “Data Usage for Playback” and choose the setting that works best for you (Low, Medium, High, or Auto, depending on your needs).
To manage your downloads data settings, go to the Downloads section in the app settings and adjust your preferences to avoid unexpected mobile bills.
To select cellular data usage, go to the app settings and choose the appropriate data usage option for streaming over mobile data.
If you’re concerned about data usage while downloading content, you can control that too. Simply enable or disable downloads via Wi-Fi under the Downloads section in the settings.
Download Content Over Wi-Fi: A great way to avoid using mobile data altogether is by downloading movies or TV shows while you’re connected to Wi-Fi. Once downloaded, you can watch them offline without using any data. This is particularly useful when you’re on the go or in areas with limited connectivity.
Use Device Data-Saving Modes: Almost all of the smartphones come with a built-in data saving mode these days. When activated, apps like Netflix will automatically use less data while streaming. Enabling this feature could further help you cut down on data consumption without needing to manually adjust settings within Netflix. To turn Data-Saving Mode on or off, follow the steps below:
Android
Open settings on your android smartphone
Click on ‘network & internet’, then on data saver
Turn data saver on or off
iPhone
Open settings on your iPhone
Click on ‘mobile data’, then on mobile data options
Turn data saver on or off
By following these steps, you can still enjoy Netflix while minimizing your data usage. Perfect for those with limited mobile data plans or wanting to control their internet usage while streaming on the go.
How to check your data usage
Android:
Open your phone’s settings.
Scroll down and tap “Connections” or “Network & Internet.”
Tap “Data Usage” or “Mobile Data.”
Look for “Mobile Data Usage” or “Data Usage by App.”
Find Netflix in the list to see how much data the app has consumed over a specific period.
iPhone:
Open the “Settings” app.
Scroll down and tap “Mobile Data.”
Scroll down until you see the list of apps.
Find Netflix in the list to see how much mobile data the app has used since the last reset.
To check app data usage specifically for the Netflix app, follow these steps to access data statistics through your device settings.
By regularly monitoring your data usage, you can avoid accidentally using too much data, especially when you’re on the go.
Conclusion
Netflix data usage is a critical aspect of managing your data plan, especially if you have a limited data allowance. Understanding Netflix data usage by streaming resolution, device type, and comparing it to other streaming services can help you make informed decisions about your data usage. By adjusting your data usage settings, selecting the right streaming resolution, and using features like save data and cellular data usage, you can minimize your Netflix data usage and stay within your data plan limits. Whether you’re streaming at home or on the go, these tips will help you enjoy your favorite shows and movies without worrying about excessive data consumption.
Firsty and eSIMs
Firsty is a modern mobile connectivity solution that simplifies global internet access through eSIM technology. What sets it apart is that you only need one eSIM for a global internet connection. As well as its unique freemium approach - users can get basic internet access for free by watching short ads, while premium plans start from €1 per day.
The service works in over 160 countries and requires no physical SIM cards or long-term commitments. Users simply pay for the days they need connectivity, choosing from various tiers to match their needs. The free tier handles basic tasks like messaging and email, while premium tiers support activities like video streaming and hotspot sharing.
The main value for consumers comes from three key features: cost savings through the elimination of roaming charges, flexibility to pause and resume service at will, and the convenience of instant activation through the app. There's no need to visit local mobile shops or juggle multiple SIM cards while traveling.
Recent user feedback highlights the platform's ease of use and responsive customer support, though initial setup may require a stable internet connection. Whether you're a casual traveler looking to stay connected on a budget or a business professional needing reliable high-speed data abroad, Firsty.app offers a straightforward solution without the complexity of traditional mobile carriers.
Streaming on the Firsty Network
You can stream Netflix and other platforms by purchasing First Class! With First Class, you have unlimited internet with the fastest available speeds.
