1/11 Mountjoy St Woollongabba QLD 4102
24/7 Brisbane Electricians
Internet usage can be a tricky thing to control, especially in households that identify as streaming enthusiasts – but exactly how much data does Netflix use?
Once upon a time, we scheduled our entire week around certain television time slots. For some families, the weeknight ritual involved watching Neighbours before dinner, while for others, waking up early enough on a Saturday to catch the start of Cheez TV was a must.
Today, the concept of waiting for our favourite show and the dreaded advertisements is very much a thing of the past. From homegrown heroes like Stan to global giants such as Netflix, the way we watch TV has changed exponentially in recent years. Apart from the monthly subscription fee, streaming only has one additional expense to consider: your internet bill.
While all streaming platforms require an internet connection to access the digital content, many households get caught out with the ferocious data consumption that they consume. To avoid a hefty internet bill – or worse, having your data slowed for the rest of the month – exactly how much data does Netflix use, and how can you control it?
Although there are many streaming platforms that the average Australian viewer can sign up for, we’ll focus on the godfather: Netflix. Originally founded in 1997 as a DVD rental service, the company has evolved into the world’s biggest film and television series library through distribution deals, in addition to its own productions.
To watch the platform’s content, Netflix can be accessed via web browsers or application software installed on smart TVs, set-top boxes, tablets, smartphones, computers and even video game consoles. For those wondering how much data does Netflix use, this will often depend on the way the content is viewed.
According to Netflix, users can expect to consume around 1GB of data per hour for streaming a TV show or movie in standard definition, and up to 3GB per hour when streaming a video in high definition. In essence, the higher the streaming quality, the more data it will chew through.
Thankfully, users can control this. To change the data usage settings, simply log into your Netflix account, and reduce the bandwidth that Netflix is programmed to. With four different settings to choose from, users have options when it comes to prioritising higher streaming quality, or lower data consumption.
Low Resolution – Users get 0.3GB per hour per device. This resolution is ideal when you use your phone to watch movies or you are running low on your monthly data. It does not guarantee you the clearest picture, but is watchable for streamers on a budget.
Medium Resolution – As the standard resolution option, users can expect to consume around 0.7GB per hour per device. Don’t expect cinema quality videos, but it’s not a bad choice if you’re looking to cut down on your internet usage.
High Resolution – As the top tier viewing quality, this resolution comes at a price. Expect to consume 3GB per hour per device for HD videos, and an eye-watering 7GB per hour per device for Ultra HD video, which is said to be better quality than even what cinemas offer.
Auto Resolution – This resolution adjusts automatically to offer you the best possible quality of video based on the speed on your internet connection. Users will notice a dip in quality if their internet is slower than normal.
These days, having a functional, efficient and well designed data and communications system is a must – even if it’s just to stream Netflix. More often than not, certain pieces of hardware and equipment are required in order to do so, and this is when the help of a reputable and experienced data and communications electrician can be a game changer for reliable home internet.
Here at Shield Electrical, we are a Brisbane based electrical contracting company, and pride ourselves on being shockingly good at watt we do. For us, friendly and reliable customer service isn’t just a nice add on – it’s how we do business. Don’t take our word for it though, just ask our clients.
Established in 2015, Shield Electrical is lighting the way when it comes to providing electrical work with world class customer service. With our headquarters based in the central suburban pocket of Coorparoo, our team of qualified industry professionals are readily available to deliver quality workmanship, fast quotes, and affordable pricing.
Whether you’re on the hunt for an electrician for domestic services, residential, commercial and industrial construction, security systems or even just further energy saving tips, get in touch with us at Shield today to source practical solutions that don’t break the bank.
