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How much data are you using on Netflix, and how can you reduce the usage?
We've all been hooked on a show so good that we accidentally binge the entire season in one day. But have you ever wondered how much data Netflix uses during TV-watching marathons? While the cliffhangers might be worth it, streaming can quickly eat through your data if you're not careful. So how can you keep up with your favorite shows without running out of data halfway through your binge?
Table of Contents
How much data does Netflix use for each streaming resolution?
Netflix's data usage depends on the resolution you're streaming in — knowing how to adjust it can save you a ton of data. You can change your resolution settings by going to "Account" in the Netflix app or website, selecting "Playback Settings," and choosing your preferred streaming quality — low, medium, high, or automatic.
Low quality
According to Netflix's Help Center, low (basic quality) streaming uses approximately 0.3 GB per hour. This setting is ideal for saving data, especially when using mobile connections or slower networks. If you're trying to stretch your data plan or dealing with limited bandwidth, Low quality ensures you can still enjoy the latest episode of your favorite show without sacrificing too much of your data allowance.
Standard definition (SD)
With approximately 0.7 GB per hour, this resolution is an excellent choice for mobile viewing or smaller screens, where the difference in quality compared to higher resolutions is less noticeable. By opting for SD, you can enjoy your favorite shows while conserving data, making it a smart option for streaming on cellular connections or when your data plan is limited.
High definition (HD)
High-definition (HD) streaming consumes approximately 3 GB per hour, delivering crisp visuals ideal for watching on TVs or other larger devices. HD is the best choice for a high-quality TV session if you're streaming at home on Wi-Fi or have an unlimited data plan.
Ultra-high definition (UHD)
Ultra-high-definition (UHD) streaming uses around 7 GB per hour and offers an excellent viewing experience best suited for large screens. UHD provides amazing visuals if you have a 4K TV or a big screen where every detail matters. However, to avoid using up your data, use this resolution with a strong Wi-Fi connection or an unlimited data plan.
Automatic
The automatic Netflix setting adjusts your streaming resolution based on your internet speed and connection quality. It's a convenient choice for those who don't want to manually change settings, and it helps balance data usage with video quality — perfect for traveling and switching between Wi-Fi and cellular data!
So which option is the best?
In short, SD or HD streaming offers the perfect compromise between video quality and data usage. Stick with SD when you're enjoying your favorite shows on the move and using cellular data and save HD for when you're comfortably connected to Wi-Fi at home.table
Resolution | Data per hour | What is it best for? |
|---|---|---|
Low (basic) quality | 0.3 GB | Saving data on mobile or slow connections |
Standard definition (SD) | 0.7 GB | Mobile viewing and smaller screens |
High definition (HD) | 3 GB | TVs and tablets with Wi-Fi connection |
Ultra-high definition (UHD) | 7 GB | Large screens with unlimited data or strong Wi-Fi |
Perks of downloading Netflix content
Did you know you don't always have to stream your content when you use Netflix? You can download it and watch it later, even when you're offline — a great option when you might have limited connectivity!
Downloading content consumes roughly the same amount of data as streaming. However, Netflix recommends downloading content while connected to Wi-Fi. This is a great way to save your data while watching another movie during your travels — because you won't be using any!
Adjust your Netflix data usage
If you're worried about surprise mobile bills and using more gigabytes than expected, Netflix lets you take charge of your data usage. It's pretty simple:
Open the Netflix app.
Tap My Netflix.
Tap Menu.
Head to the App Settings.
Under Video Playback, select Cellular Data Usage.
If you want to adjust your downloads data settings, switch Wi-Fi Only on or off under Downloads.
Now your binge sessions will be stress-free!
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How to check Netflix data usage on Android and iOS
Monitoring Netflix’s data usage is easy on both Android and iOS devices. Most importantly, it allows you to keep track and make adjustments if necessary.
Netflix data usage on Android
Open Settings.
Go to Network & Internet (or Connections).
Tap Data Usage.
Select App Data Usage (or Mobile Data Usage).
Scroll down and choose the Netflix app to see the data usage for the selected period.
Netflix data usage on iOS
Open Settings.
Select Mobile Service or Cellular (depending on your region).
Scroll through the list of apps until you find Netflix.
The amount of data Netflix has used will be displayed next to it.
Watching Netflix while traveling
Traveling abroad and keeping up with your favorite Netflix series can be problematic, annoying, and tricky. Plus, roaming is costly and the excitement of watching your show in a cozy hotel room quickly fades when you imagine next month's mobile bill.
There's a solution to these troubles — an eSIM card! With the Saily eSIM app, you can easily switch to a local carrier and enjoy affordable data plans without worrying about where to buy a physical SIM or dealing with roaming fees. Also, if you accidentally run out of data, topping up is very easy — you can replenish your data with one tap. It's seamless, flexible, and perfect for staying connected abroad, so you can enjoy the latest episode of your favorite show whenever, wherever!
FAQ
Giedrė is an outdoor enthusiast who feels more at home in a tent than in a luxury hotel. She’s the type who packs her bags with a headlamp and enough snacks to survive a zombie apocalypse, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t like snapping pictures to post on her Instagram stories. For that, she’s always prepared with an eSIM card on her phone — it helps her navigate the forest, too!