Netflix is a popular streaming service that provides a large selection of movies, TV episodes, documentaries, and other content. While Netflix offers unlimited pleasure, it may consume large amounts of bandwidth. Knowing the answer to the question “How much data does Netflix use?” may help you manage your data plan more effectively, particularly if you have a restricted data allocation. This article looks at Netflix's data use and offers strategies for controlling and lowering it.
How Much Data Does Netflix Use?
When it comes to streaming video material, data use varies based on a number of factors, including video quality and watching time. Below is a breakdown of how much data Netflix consumes per hour of streaming:
Standard Definition (SD): 1GB per hour
High Definition (HD): 3GB per hour
4K Ultra HD (UHD): 7GB per hour
So if you’re on a limited data plan during a trip, it would be best to stream Netflix in SD, or downloading them in advance is much better. Watching Netflix in HD or 4K Ultra HD is only ideal if your phone is paying for unlimited data plans or is connected to strong Wi-Fi.
How To Check Netflix Data Usage
To check the amount of data Netflix uses on your device, follow these steps:
On an iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular > Scroll down to Netflix > Check the data usage under Current Period.
On an Android device: Go to Settings > Apps > Select Netflix > Check data usage under Usage.
Factors Affecting Data Usage Of Netflix
Device Type
Smartphones and tablets typically use less data compared to streaming on larger screens like TVs or computers. Smart TVs and computers that have higher resolution displays often lead to higher data consumption, especially if set to stream in HD or UHD.
Streaming Settings
Netflix’s default streaming quality can automatically adjust based on your internet connection speed, which can affect data usage. On the other hand, manual adjustments allow users to manually set streaming quality to manage data consumption.
Connection Type
Streaming over Wi-Fi does not count against mobile data limits but can still impact overall bandwidth usage. Meanwhile, streaming on mobile data can quickly consume your data allowance, especially at higher quality settings.
Tips To Manage And Reduce Netflix Data Usage
Here are some tips to manage and reduce Netflix streaming data usage:
Adjust Playback Settings
Go to Netflix.com and log in to your account.
Select the profile you want to adjust playback settings for.
Click on the profile icon and select Account.
Scroll down to Profile & Parental Controls and click on the profile.
Click Change next to Playback settings.
Choose from Low/Medium/High-quality settings based on your data needs.
Use Data Saver Settings
Open the Netflix app on your mobile device.
Tap the profile icon and select App Settings.
Tap Cellular Data Usage.
Choose from Automatic/Wi-Fi Only/Data Saver/Maximum Data based on your data needs.
Download Content
You can use Netflix’s Smart Downloads feature to automatically download the next episode while you’re connected to Wi-Fi. This will help you save lots of cellular data.
Monitor Data Usage
In addition, remember to check your data usage regularly to ensure you’re not exceeding your data limits. You can freely adjust your settings accordingly to manage your data usage.
Use Lower Quality Settings
If you have a limited data plan, consider using lower-quality settings like Low or Medium to reduce data consumption. By following these tips, you can effectively manage and reduce your Netflix data usage, ensuring smoother streaming and lower bills.
Avoid Data Roaming Fees With An eSIM
Roaming fees may quickly add up abroad, especially if you're watching Netflix. If you don't have access to free public wifi when travelling, using eSIM may provide you with reasonable data without the bother of unexpected roaming costs, ensuring that you do not break the bank every time you stream movies on the app.
With a WoWeSIM, you pay for the data you need upfront. There are no hidden or unexpected costs. And if you run out of data, you don't have to say goodbye to Netflix — just top up your data with the app.
Conclusion
Streaming Netflix can quickly consume a lot of data, so it's important to monitor your usage, especially if you have a limited data plan. Adjusting the video quality and downloading content over WiFi can help minimize data usage.
If you want to use eSIM to connect while traveling, you can refer to the list of eSIMs suitable for the country you are about to visit via WoWeSIM!
FAQs
1. How many GB does a 2-hour movie use on Netflix?
Answer: A 2-hour movie on Netflix uses approximately 6GB at high quality (1080p) and 14GB at 4K quality.
2. How long does 1GB of data last on Netflix?
Answer: 1GB of data on Netflix can last approximately 4 hours at the default data usage mode, which balances data usage with video quality.
3. Is 100GB enough for Netflix?
Answer: 100GB of data is enough for Netflix, depending on the quality of the video you’re streaming, with estimates suggesting it can last for around 333 hours at low quality, 142 hours at medium quality, 33 hours at high quality, or around 14 hours at 4K quality.
4. How much data is used for 1 hour of Netflix?
Answer: Netflix uses approximately 1GB per hour in standard definition (SD), 3GB per hour in high definition (HD), and 7GB per hour in 4K Ultra HD (UHD).
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