Broadband usage calculator

BBC iPlayer streaming guide

BBC iPlayer offers a high-definition (HD) streaming option with a minimum resolution of 1280x720 (720p). Streaming or downloading a 60-minute programme in HD will consume approximately 1.6GB of data, while the same programme in standard definition (SD) will use around 800MB. The app’s settings allow users to adjust the download quality to the most suitable rate based on their internet connection.

BBC iPlayer uses H.264 video encoding and 192kbps audio, which helps maintain a balance between quality and data usage. To ensure uninterrupted HD streaming, a minimum connection speed of 5Mbps is required, while 1.5Mbps is sufficient for SD content. It's advisable to use HD streaming only if you're on an unlimited broadband package, as the data consumption can be significant. Check if your internet speed is fast enough for HD TV.

Netflix streaming guide

Our broadband usage calculator can help estimate your Netflix data usage requirements. Netflix uses approximately 700MB of data per hour when streaming in SD, up to 3GB per hour for HD, and up to 7GB per hour for 4K streaming. Selecting the 'Auto' setting under 'Data Usage' in your Netflix account will adjust the picture resolution to the highest quality possible, based on your current internet speed. This setting is only advisable if you are on an unlimited broadband package.

TV resolutions

High Definition (HD): 720p resolution (1,280 x 720 - approximately 1 million pixels)
Full HD: 1080p resolution (1,920 x 1,080 - approximately 2 million pixels)
Ultra HD: 4K resolution (3,840 x 2,160 - approximately 8 million pixels)

Is my broadband connection fast enough for 4K TV?

If you want to stream in HD or 4K and aren't sure if your internet connection is up to it, you can check your broadband speed using our broadband speed tester.

What is a fair usage policy?

Some internet service providers (ISPs) implement a fair usage policy. By agreeing to your broadband contract, you commit to using your connection reasonably. The small print may state something like, "you must not use it beyond what can be reasonably expected of someone using the service for domestic purposes." For example, if you are consistently downloading large amounts of data from sites like BitTorrent or uploading substantial data backups to cloud storage, your ISP may investigate. However, for most users, this is unlikely to be an issue, even for heavy users or avid Netflix binge-watchers. If you are concerned about your data usage, you could consider switching to a provider offering a policy package such as 'Truly Unlimited'. Currently; BT, Plusnet, Sky & TalkTalk offer "Truly unlimited" broadband with no traffic management monitoring.

What is smartphone data usage?

Smartphone data usage refers to the amount of data you consume during one billing cycle. Your data is used whenever you connect to the internet on your phone to perform any task. Data charges can vary depending on your mobile phone tariff. Using your phone abroad on a roaming network can be costly, unless your network provider allows you to use your local mobile data allowance in the country you're visiting.

Smartphone data is typically used for:

• Browsing the internet
• Sending and receiving emails
• Browsing social media
• Usings apps and online games
• Downloading apps
• Apple iMessaging, Facetime & Facetime audio (iPhone users)
• Streaming video (ie. YouTube, Netflix, Vimeo, Skype, Zoom)
• Streaming music (ie. Spotify, Apple Music)
• Using data while connected to a WiFi network will not count towards your tariff's data allowance.

What is a data cap?

A data cap or allowance refers to a specific amount of data you can use during one billing cycle, with penalties for exceeding the limit. If you exceed your data cap, it is likely to result in a reduction in speed or a suspension of your account services. While data caps are more common with mobile phone tariffs, they can also apply to home broadband packages if you have not opted for an unlimited plan. Broadband deals are typically advertised as either offering 'unlimited usage' or specifying a fixed data allowance, such as 20GB per month. You can use our broadband calculator above to estimate your monthly usage.

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Broadband usage calculator small print

Our broadband usage calculator is intended as a guide only. Your actual broadband usage may differ from the figure displayed. All data entered is anonymous, not stored, and used solely for the purpose of the calculation. The calculator's data usage has been updated to reflect current trends in 2024.