In today’s connected world, most people rely on their smartphones for accessing the internet, streaming music and videos, using social media, and more. With all of this data usage, an important question arises: how many GB of cell data do I really need each month?
How Much Data Do Common Activities Use?
To determine how much data you need, it’s helpful to know how much data common online activities typically use. Here are some estimates:
- Email: 5 emails with attachments = 5MB
- Social media scrolling: 1 hour = 100MB
- Music streaming: 1 hour = 60MB
- Video streaming standard definition: 1 hour = 230MB
- Video streaming HD: 1 hour = 430MB
- Video streaming 4K: 1 hour = 7GB
- Large file download: 1GB file = 1GB
As you can see, data usage can really add up, especially with music and video streaming. Just an hour or two of HD or 4K streaming per day could use several GB of data.
Typical Monthly Data Usage
According to a 2021 report from Ericsson, the average monthly mobile data usage per smartphone in North America is 11GB. This number has been increasing steadily over the years as people stream more music and video on their phones.
Of course, individual data usage can vary quite a bit based on phone habits. Light users may only use 1-2GB per month, while heavy streamers can use 50GB or more. Here’s a breakdown of typical monthly usage levels:
- Light user: 1-2GB
- Moderate user: 3-6GB
- Heavy user: 7-15GB
- Extreme user: 16+GB
Factors That Affect Data Needs
When estimating your ideal data plan, there are several key factors to consider:
Streaming Habits
How often do you stream music, videos, live TV, and other content on your phone? The more you stream, the more data you’ll use.
Video Quality
Streaming HD and 4K video will use significantly more data than standard definition quality. If you frequently watch high-res video on your phone, you’ll need a higher data allowance.
WiFi Access
When connected to WiFi, your phone uses WiFi data instead of your cell plan’s data. So the more often you’re on WiFi, the less cell data you’ll need. If you’re frequently away from WiFi, you’ll need more cell data.
Cloud Storage
If you frequently upload photos/videos to the cloud from your phone or stream from cloud storage, this can also use up cell data.
Travel Habits
When traveling and away from your regular WiFi networks, you may use more cell data than usual. If you travel often, consider a higher data plan.
Connected Devices
If you share your cell data plan with other connected devices like tablets or hotspots, be sure to factor in data usage from those extra devices.
Recommended Cell Data Plans
Based on typical usage levels, here are some recommended cell data allotments:
| Usage Level | Recommended Data |
|---|---|
| Light user | 2-4GB |
| Moderate user | 6-10GB |
| Heavy user | 12-18GB |
| Extreme user | 20+GB |
These recommendations are for individual smartphone use. For plans shared with multiple devices, add 2-4GB per extra device.
Understanding Carrier Data Plans
When choosing a data plan, you’ll need to understand how carriers structure their options. Here are some key points:
- Plans typically range from 1GB to unlimited data.
- Prices range from around $10/month for 1-2GB to $80+/month for unlimited.
- Most plans have an “unlimited” option with reduced speeds after 20-50GB.
- Overage fees if you exceed your allowance can be $10-15/GB.
- Shared/family plans usually allow pooling of data.
- Unlimited plans may have video streaming speed capped.
Make sure to read the fine print so you understand video quality restrictions, overage policies, hotspot allowances, and other limitations that may apply.
Prepaid vs Contract Plans
Prepaid plans: Pay upfront each month and can be canceled anytime. No long-term contracts.
Contract plans: Typically lock you into a 12-24 month contract but offer discounted phones. Early termination fees if canceled before contract term ends.
Tips for Conserving Cell Data
If you want to limit your data usage, here are some tips:
- Connect to WiFi whenever available, including at home, work, cafes, etc.
- Set apps like Spotify to stream only on WiFi.
- Lower video quality settings in streaming apps.
- Download content like playlists, videos, maps, etc. to watch offline later.
- Disable auto-play on videos & music.
- Close browser tabs when not in use.
- Disable automatic backups or large file uploads on cellular.
- Use apps like Facebook Lite that are optimized for low data usage.
- Monitor usage closely and set cut-off limits or data alerts.
- Consider purchasing a WiFi hotspot for big trips/vacations.
The Bottom Line
There are a few key questions to ask when determining your ideal cell phone data allowance:
- How much do you typically stream video and music?
- Do you have regular WiFi access?
- Do you travel frequently or use hotspots?
- Do you share your plan with any devices?
For most individual smartphone users, 6-12GB is a safe bet. But heavy streamers may need up to 20GB or an unlimited plan. Always check your usage each month and adjust your plan if needed. Take advantage of carrier deals when they allow you to upgrade your data allotment temporarily.
With the right amount of data, you can fully enjoy all the connectivity benefits of your smartphone without having to stress about overages or throttled speeds.
