Instagram Vs WhatsApp: Today almost every smartphone user uses Instagram and WhatsApp, but very few people think about which of these apps consumes more mobile data. If you also watch reels, chat or stay on video calls for hours every day, then it is very important to know where your data is actually being spent.
Why has mobile data become an important issue?
Even though there is talk of 5G and unlimited packs, the reality is that even today many users are dependent on limited data plans. In such a situation, if data gets exhausted quickly due to some app, it has a direct impact on the pocket. Therefore, it is important to understand which app consumes more data and why.
How much data does Instagram blow through?
Instagram is an app completely based on photos and videos. In this, as you scroll, new content keeps getting loaded, due to which data is consumed rapidly. Data is consumed just for viewing photos and feeds, but as soon as you start watching reels, stories or videos, the consumption increases manifold. Watching long videos or live streams can exhaust your data pack in no time. Simply put, the more videos on Instagram, the more data you consume.
How much does WhatsApp data cost?
The main function of WhatsApp is messaging and calling, hence its data usage is much less than that of Instagram. Normal text chat uses nominal data. Voice calls and video calls definitely consume data, but still it is not as heavy as watching videos continuously.
However, if auto-download is turned on in your WhatsApp and you receive a lot of photos and videos every day, then the data consumption may increase. Still, in normal use, WhatsApp remains economical in terms of data.
Who is ahead in direct competition?
If we compare, Instagram uses more mobile data than WhatsApp in almost every situation. Especially when you scroll through Reels or spend time in the Explore section. On the other hand, if you only chat and make occasional calls on WhatsApp, then the data consumption remains quite limited.
Easy ways to save mobile data
If you want that the data does not run out quickly, then turning on Data Saver mode in both the apps can be beneficial. Turn off video auto-play in Instagram and use Wi-Fi for heavy content. Also, background data can also be turned off if not needed.
Use apps wisely
Ultimately it comes down to habits. If you watch reels for hours, Instagram will drain your data quickly. If you use WhatsApp only for chat and calls, then the data will be saved to a great extent. If you use apps with correct information, both data and money will be saved.
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