Have you ever asked, "How much data does video streaming use?" You're not alone, and the answer is not exact. Connection speeds for streaming and similar activities vary based on the service. Two popular streaming services recommend a download speed of at least 1.5 Mbps. One of them recommends 5 Mbps download speed for HD quality.
The good news is that Cricket offers two unlimited plans with nationwide 5G access* to meet the recommended 1.5 Mbps speeds:
- $60/mo. Unlimited Plan: Premium data that won't slow based on your usage. Video streaming is limited to max speeds of 1.5 to 2 Mbps (SD quality).
- $55/mo. Unlimited Plan: For all data usage, Cricket may temporarily slow speeds if the network is busy. Video streaming is limited to max speed of 1.5 to 2 Mbps (SD quality).
How much data does streaming video use
If you're connected to a Wi-Fi network, you can stream using Wi-Fi and it won't affect your cellular data. However, when you move out of your connected Wi-Fi range or have Wi-Fi turned off, streaming will use your wireless plan's high-speed data allowance.
Keep in mind, the higher quality the video, the more bandwidth will be used. When streaming is not optimized, a single hour of streaming can use up to 3 GB for HD video. That's a lot of bandwidth!
Capped Plans and Video Management
Cricket aims to render streaming video in standard-definition (max speed of 1.5 to 2 Mbps) though some video cannot be identified. Sometimes, other content that content providers bundle with streaming video may be impacted and slowed, including downloads. In certain situations, we may deliver video content faster or at higher definition. To experience higher definition video when available, or if you have an issue, turn the feature off or back on any time at cricketwireless.com/videomanagement. Details at cricketwireless.com/videomanagement.
How to Get the Most out of Your Data
Tips for the best picture and sound quality if you plan to stream TV shows and video through your smartphone on a regular basis:
- Look for plans with faster download speeds to reduce buffering
- Switch to Wi-Fi whenever you are in range of an available network
