The amount of internet bandwidth consumed during one hour of video streaming from the popular service varies based on the video quality selected. Lower resolutions, such as standard definition, use significantly less data than high-definition or ultra-high-definition streams. For instance, watching a movie in standard definition may consume around 0.7 gigabytes in an hour, whereas an ultra-high-definition stream could utilize upwards of 7 gigabytes within the same timeframe.
Understanding the relationship between video resolution and data consumption is crucial for users with limited internet data plans or those streaming on mobile networks. Awareness allows users to proactively manage their usage, potentially preventing overage charges or buffering issues. Historically, advancements in video compression technologies have aimed to reduce the bandwidth required for streaming without sacrificing video quality, making online entertainment more accessible to a wider audience.