How Much Data Does Streaming Use?

How Much Data Does Streaming Use? Internet Speeds Explained

At a glance

• Streaming data usage depends largely on video quality, with 4K content using significantly more data than HD or SD.
• As a general guide, streaming uses around 1GB per hour in SD, 2GB in HD, 3-4GB in Full HD and up to 16GB per hour in 4K.
• Popular services such as Netflix, Disney+, Stan, BINGE, YouTube and Kayo all have different data requirements depending on quality settings.
• Live sports streaming can be particularly data intensive due to longer viewing times and higher video quality.
• Music streaming uses far less data than video streaming, often less than 150MB per hour.
• Households streaming across multiple devices can easily use hundreds of gigabytes each month, with some exceeding 1TB.
• Internet speed and data usage are different. Speed affects streaming quality and buffering, while data measures how much content you consume.
• NBN 25 is often suitable for one or two HD streams, while larger households streaming in 4K may benefit from NBN 100 or faster.
• Unlimited NBN plans can help households avoid concerns about high monthly data usage from streaming.
• Reducing video quality, limiting simultaneous streams and downloading content for offline viewing can help manage data usage.

Streaming is one of the biggest drivers of internet usage in Australian homes.

From Netflix and Stan to BINGE, Kayo Sports and YouTube, the amount of data used can add up quickly, especially when streaming in HD or 4K.

In this guide, we'll break down streaming data usage, explain how much speed you need for different viewing habits and share tips to help manage your data usage.

How Much Data Does Streaming Use?

The amount of data streaming uses depends on the video quality you choose. The figures below are estimates only. Actual data usage may vary depending on the streaming service, video quality settings and device being used.

As a general guide:

• SD (480p): 700MB–1GB per hour
• HD (720p): 1.5GB–2GB per hour
• Full HD (1080p): 3GB–4GB per hour
• 4K Ultra HD: 7GB–16GB per hour

Higher picture quality uses more data. This is why 4K streaming can quickly increase monthly data usage.

Streaming Data Usage by Video Quality

Standard Definition (SD, 480p)

SD uses the least amount of data.

It is suitable for smaller screens and slower internet connections. Most users can expect data usage of around 700MB to 1GB per hour.

High Definition (HD, 720p)

HD provides a sharper picture while keeping data usage relatively low.

Streaming in HD typically uses between 1.5GB and 2GB per hour.

Full HD (1080p)

Full HD remains one of the most popular streaming resolutions.

Most streaming services use between 3GB and 4GB of data per hour when streaming in 1080p.

4K Ultra HD

4K delivers the highest picture quality available on most streaming platforms.

However, it also uses the most data. Depending on the service, 4K streaming can consume between 7GB and 16GB per hour.

Streaming Data Usage by Platform

Different streaming services use different amounts of data. The exact amount depends on factors such as video quality, device settings and whether you are streaming live or on demand.

Netflix

Netflix estimates data usage at approximately:

• SD: up to 1GB per hour
• HD: up to 3GB per hour
• 4K: up to 7GB per hour

Disney+

Disney+ uses similar amounts of data to Netflix.

A one-hour stream in HD may use around 2GB to 3GB, while 4K streaming can use significantly more.

Stan

Stan offers SD, HD and 4K streaming options.

Data usage varies by quality setting, but users can expect similar usage levels to Netflix and Disney+.

BINGE and Foxtel Now

BINGE and Foxtel Now support HD streaming across much of their content.

A typical HD stream may use around 2GB to 3GB per hour.

YouTube

YouTube data usage varies widely because users can manually select video quality.

Watching at 1080p uses significantly more data than viewing at 480p.

Kayo Sports and Live Sport

Live sport often uses more data because of the fast-moving video and longer viewing times.

Watching Kayo in HD can use around 3GB per hour. A full afternoon of sport can quickly add up.

How Much Data Does Live Streaming Use?

Live streaming often uses similar or slightly higher amounts of data than on-demand content.

As a guide:

• SD live streaming: around 1GB per hour
• HD live streaming: around 3GB per hour
• 4K live streaming: 7GB or more per hour

Live sport can be particularly data intensive. Watching several matches across a weekend can use tens of gigabytes of data, especially when streaming in HD or 4K.

How Much Data Does Music Streaming Use?

Music streaming uses far less data than video streaming.

Typical data usage includes:

• Standard quality: around 40MB–70MB per hour
• High quality: around 100MB–150MB per hour
• Lossless audio: the highest audio quality available on some music services, with much higher data usage

For most households, music streaming has a much smaller impact on monthly data usage.

How Much Data Does a Household Actually Use in a Month?

Data usage can vary greatly between households.

A couple who stream a few hours of HD content each night may use several hundred gigabytes of data each month. A family watching 4K content across multiple TVs and devices could easily use more than 1TB.

Video streaming is now one of the biggest contributors to household internet usage. This is one reason many Australians choose unlimited internet plans.

What Internet Speed Do You Need for Streaming?

Data usage and internet speed are related, but they are not the same thing.

Data measures how much information you use. Speed measures how quickly it is delivered.

Recommended NBN Speed Tier by Household Type

The speed you need depends on how many people are streaming and the video quality being used.

While many Australians assume faster is always better, SpinTel research conducted in 2024 found that 69% of internet decision makers would not consider a slower speed, even though a lower-speed plan may still be suitable for common online activities, including streaming.

As a general guide:

• NBN 25 – Suitable for one or two people streaming in HD. It can also comfortably support web browsing and video calls.
• NBN 50 – A good choice for small households streaming on multiple devices at the same time.
• NBN 100 – Ideal for households streaming in 4K across several devices.
• NBN 250 and above – Best for heavy streaming, gaming and large households with many connected devices.

If several people are streaming at the same time, a faster plan can help reduce buffering and improve performance. However, choosing the right speed is often about matching your plan to your household's needs rather than simply selecting the fastest option available.

Streaming on 5G Home Internet and Mobile Broadband

5G home internet can support streaming very well in areas with strong coverage.

However, users should check both speed and data allowances, especially when streaming in HD or 4K.

Mobile broadband users may need to monitor data usage more closely than households with unlimited NBN plans.

How to Reduce Data and Improve Streaming Quality

If you want to use less data, these tips can help.

Lower the Streaming Resolution

Switching from 4K to HD can reduce data usage significantly.

Download Content Over Wi-Fi for Offline Viewing

Many streaming services allow downloads. This can help reduce mobile data usage.

Cap How Many Devices Are Streaming at Once

The more devices streaming simultaneously, the more data your household will use.

Turn Off Autoplay

Autoplay can consume data without you realising it.

Use Ethernet for the Main TV

A wired connection can provide a more stable streaming experience and help reduce buffering.

Choosing the Right Plan for Streaming

If your household streams regularly, an unlimited NBN plan can provide peace of mind. Households that stream in 4K, watch live sport or use multiple devices at once may also benefit from a higher speed tier.

FAQs

Does 4K Really Use Double the Data of HD?
In many cases, 4K uses more than double the data of HD. The exact amount depends on the streaming service and content.

How Much Data Does Netflix Use Per Hour?
Netflix estimates up to 1GB per hour in SD, up to 3GB per hour in HD and up to 7GB per hour in 4K.

Is Unlimited NBN Enough for a Family of Four?
For most families, yes. Unlimited plans help avoid concerns about large monthly data usage.

Can I Stream 4K on Mobile Broadband?
Yes, if your connection is fast enough and your plan includes sufficient data. However, 4K streaming can use large amounts of data very quickly.