Key takeaways
- Check your phone’s data usage screen and your past bills to see how much mobile data you really use.
- Video streaming usually uses the most data; browsing, email and messaging use relatively little.
- Use Wi-Fi at home and work, and set apps to download updates and backups only on Wi-Fi.
- Lower video quality on mobile data and download music and shows over Wi-Fi before you leave.
- Turn on your carrier’s usage alerts so you aren’t surprised by overage charges or slowdowns.
Mobile plans come in many sizes, from small data allowances to unlimited. The right one depends on how you actually use your phone, and your phone keeps track for you.
Find your real usage
- Check your phone’s data usage screen, usually under cellular or mobile settings. It shows total usage and which apps use the most.
- Check past bills or your carrier’s app for monthly totals over several months, since usage varies.
- Note your heaviest apps. Video, social media with autoplaying video and music streaming are usually at the top.
What uses the most data
| Activity | Data use |
|---|---|
| Streaming video, especially in HD | High |
| Video calls | Medium to high |
| Social media with autoplay video | Medium to high |
| Music and podcast streaming | Medium |
| Web browsing, email, maps | Low to medium |
| Text messaging and most chat apps | Low |
Actual amounts depend on the app, quality settings and how long you use it.
Cut data use without giving anything up
- Use Wi-Fi when you can, at home, work or school.
- Set app updates and photo backups to Wi-Fi only.
- Lower video quality on mobile data in streaming and social media app settings.
- Turn off autoplay for videos in social apps.
- Download before you go: playlists, podcasts, shows and offline maps over Wi-Fi.
- Check background data: restrict apps you don’t need refreshing in the background.
Quick tip: Turn on your carrier’s data usage alerts, or set a warning in your phone’s settings at around 80% of your allowance. It gives you time to switch to Wi-Fi before you run out.
Choosing the right plan
Once you know your typical monthly use, add a little headroom and compare plans by the price after any promotions end. Broadband labels apply to mobile plans as well as home internet; our broadband label guide explains what to look for.
Traveling?
Data use abroad can be expensive. See our guide to using your phone abroad before your next trip, and our eSIM guide for another way to get data while traveling.
FAQ
What happens if I go over my data allowance?
It depends on your plan. Some plans charge for extra data, while others slow your speeds for the rest of the billing cycle. Your plan’s broadband label explains what happens.
Do ‘unlimited’ plans really have no limits?
Many unlimited plans have a threshold after which your data may be slowed during busy times, and some limit video quality or hotspot use. Read the plan details.
Does using my phone as a hotspot use a lot of data?
It can, because laptops and tablets often download updates and stream at higher quality. Watch your usage when tethering.
Does Wi-Fi calling use mobile data?
When you’re connected to Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi calling uses the Wi-Fi network, not your mobile data allowance.
This guide is general information. Plans, prices and program rules change, so check the details with your provider and official sources such as the FCC and FTC before you decide.