Snapchat is one of the most popular social media apps, allowing users to send photos, videos, and messages that disappear after being viewed. One of Snapchat’s key features is the ability to make voice and video calls through the app. This raises the question – can you make Snapchat calls without Wi-Fi?
The Short Answer
Yes, you can make voice and video calls on Snapchat without Wi-Fi, provided you have cellular data connectivity. Snapchat relies on an internet connection to make calls, so you just need a mobile data plan or connection to place and receive Snapchat calls without Wi-Fi.
Making Snapchat Calls Over Cellular Data
To make a Snapchat call using your mobile data plan instead of Wi-Fi, follow these steps:
- Ensure cellular data is enabled on your phone. On iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular. On Android, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network. Make sure cellular data is toggled on.
- Open the Snapchat app and log into your account if you haven’t already.
- Navigate to the Chat screen and select the contact you want to call.
- Tap the phone icon at the top to initiate a voice call or tap the video icon to start a video call.
- The call will now connect using your cellular data rather than Wi-Fi. The mobile network signal bars will be displayed during the call.
- When finished, tap the red phone button to end the call.
As long as you have cellular signal, Snapchat will default to using mobile data for calls when Wi-Fi is unavailable. Keep in mind voice and video calls can use a lot of data, so an unlimited plan is ideal if you make frequent Snapchat calls.
Cellular Data Requirements
Snapchat calls made over cellular data require a relatively strong and fast connection for optimal quality:
- 3G networks – Can support Snapchat calls but call quality may not be ideal. Video calls may be pixelated or laggy.
- 4G/LTE networks – Provide fast enough connectivity for smooth Snapchat calls. This is the recommended minimum network type.
- 5G networks – Offer the fastest speeds and lowest latency. Snapchat calls will be very high quality over 5G.
Snapchat uses a lot of data for voice and video calls compared to normal app usage. High-speed 4G/LTE or 5G networks are recommended for uninterrupted Snapchat calls and to avoid slowdowns or delays.
Data Usage for Snapchat Calls
Snapchat voice and video calls use the following average amounts of data per minute:
- Snapchat voice call: 0.5 – 1.5 MB per minute
- Snapchat video call: 8 – 12 MB per minute
A 30 minute Snapchat video call could use 250 – 400MB of data, for example. The exact usage depends on call quality and network conditions.
To minimize data usage on cellular networks:
- Enable lower quality video in Snapchat settings if you have data caps
- Use voice calls instead of video calls when possible
- Connect to Wi-Fi whenever it’s available
Using Snapchat Abroad Without Wi-Fi
You can use Snapchat to call and message contacts even when traveling internationally without Wi-Fi access:
- Get an international roaming plan or travel data SIM to access cellular networks abroad
- Connect to local Wi-Fi hotspots when available to avoid roaming fees
- Download offline Snapchat maps to avoid data usage for location services
- Enable Travel Mode in Snapchat settings to reduce background data usage
Using Snapchat abroad is convenient for staying in touch but can rack up data roaming charges quickly. Budget extra data when traveling to accommodate Snapchat usage.
Troubleshooting Snapchat Call Issues
If you experience problems making or receiving Snapchat calls over cellular data, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Check cellular signal strength. Move to an area with stronger signal.
- Disable Wi-Fi so Snapchat uses mobile data instead.
- Restart your phone and the Snapchat app.
- Update Snapchat to the latest version available.
- Contact your mobile carrier and confirm your data plan is active.
Frequent lag, pixelation, or call drops could indicate a poor cellular network connection. Connecting to Wi-Fi or switching mobile networks may improve call quality in this case.
Using a Snapchat Calling App
If you need to use Snapchat calling features but don’t have mobile data available, third-party apps like Snapchat+ offer workaround solutions. These apps allow you to make Snapchat calls over Wi-Fi by tricking the Snapchat servers.
Key features offered by Snapchat calling apps:
- Make Snapchat voice and video calls over Wi-Fi
- Use Snapchat calling features without a SIM card
- Mask your identity and remain anonymous on Snapchat
However, be cautious when using third-party calling apps as they violate Snapchat’s terms of use and may risk account suspension if detected. Officially, a cellular data or internet connection is still required to use Snapchat calling features.
Conclusion
In summary, Snapchat does allow users to place voice and video calls without Wi-Fi, provided you have a cellular data connection available. For optimal call quality, use at least a 4G LTE network. Be aware significant data is used for Snapchat calls, so an unlimited plan is best if you call frequently. With the right cellular plan and data limits, Snapchat is a convenient communication app that can be used on the go without relying on Wi-Fi availability.