How Much Internet Do Streaming Services Use?

blog TCC Jun 23, 2020

How much internet do streaming services like Netflix uses?

Streaming services have become a natural luxury of modern society. While they offer endless entertainment, they can run through internet data fairly quickly. This can be especially important for those watching data usage. Let's ask the basic question: How much internet do streaming services use? 

 

Streaming services have become a natural luxury of modern society. While the streaming services offer endless entertainment, they can run through internet data fairly quickly. This can be especially important for those mindful of their data usage. Let’s explore the question: How much internet do streaming services use?

Data Used by Streaming Services

Netflix

As one of the most popular streaming services in the world, Netflix is very transparent with its data requirements. Depending upon the quality of video chosen in your settings, data usage will run between 0.3 GB/hour for Low to 7 GB/hour for Ultra HD. The default setting is SD at 3 GB/hour.

Disney Plus

Disney Plu is the newest addition to the vault of streaming videos. Typically, data usage will run between 700 MB/hour and 1.5 GB/hour for SD and 1080p HD, respectively.

 Hulu

Hulu, although similar in nature to Netflix, has its own distinct set of data requirements. Ranging from 0.68 GB/hour for standard definition, their lowest setting, to 2.7 GB/hour for 1080p Ultra HD. Their only option for mobile devices uses 1.3 GB/hour and is HD.

Amazon Prime

The video streaming service from Amazon provides three options for computers and a data-saving option for mobile devices. Ranging from 800 MB/hour at SD to 6 GB/hr for 4K Ultra HD, Amazon Prime offers options for every data plan.

YouTube

YouTube, the video-sharing platform offers various streaming options, most famously the live stream. The lowest resolution setting, 480p, uses 562.5 MB/hour, while the highest setting, 4K Ultra HD, uses 15.98 GB/hour. With such a wide range, users should carefully consider their resolution preferences.

Choose a Trusted Data Provider

Streaming services, though a seamless entertainment option, requires some forethought from their users particularly concerning data usage. Most services offer a range of video quality, each with their own set of data requirements. On average, customers can expect to need about 600 MB/hour for the lowest quality and 6.5 GB/hour for the highest setting.

So, to answer our question: How much internet do streaming services use? It depends. That’s why you need a trusted data provider to help navigate these considerations effectively. By choosing Tuckersmith Communications, you are opting for a reliable and efficient provider with a commitment to delivering seamless connectivity. For any type of setting or streaming option, we can help you with all your data needs!