How Much Data Do You Actually Need?

Many people pay for unlimited data and use far less. A few minutes checking your real usage can save money every month.

Check your real usage

• iPhone — Settings › Cellular shows usage for the current period (reset it at the start of your billing cycle to track a month).
• Android — Settings › Network & internet (or Connections) › Data usage.
• Your carrier's app — Usually shows the last few months of data use.

What uses the most data

• Video streaming and video calls use far more than anything else.
• Social media apps with autoplay video add up quickly.
• Music streaming, maps, web browsing and messaging use much less.

A simple rule of thumb

• Mostly on Wi-Fi at home and work — A small or budget data plan is often enough.
• Some streaming and social media on the go — A mid-size plan fits most people.
• Heavy video, hotspot use or no home internet — Unlimited makes sense.

Ways to use less

Turn off autoplay video, download music and maps on Wi-Fi, and set streaming apps to lower quality on cellular. If your usage changes, most prepaid plans let you switch plans month to month.