Snapchat can use up a lot of data, especially if you’re viewing Stories, using filters, or sending media-heavy Snaps. Here are some tips for reducing Snapchat’s data usage so you don’t burn through your monthly allowance.
Use Data Saver mode
Snapchat has a Data Saver mode that can help reduce data usage. When enabled, Snapchat will not automatically load media-heavy content like Stories. Instead, you’ll have to tap to load each Story manually. This prevents Snapchat from pulling down Stories in the background when you may not even view them.
To enable Data Saver mode:
- Open Snapchat Settings
- Go to Additional Services > Manage
- Turn on Data Saver
With Data Saver enabled, you’ll see a “Load” button on Snapchat Stories that you need to tap before the content will load. This gives you manual control over what gets loaded versus the app automatically pulling down Stories.
Limit automatic background refreshing
By default, Snapchat will periodically refresh Snaps and Chats in the background, even when you aren’t using the app. This constant background activity uses data.
You can disable background refreshing entirely, or limit how often Snapchat refreshes:
- Go to your phone Settings > Apps > Snapchat
- Tap “Mobile data & Wi-Fi”
- Change “Background data” to “Disable” or “Limit background data”
This will stop Snapchat from endlessly pulling down new data when you’re not actively using it. Of course, you may see slightly more outdated content when you open Snapchat again, but it will use less data overall.
Avoid cellular data entirely
The most surefire way to stop Snapchat from using data is to avoid using it on cellular data altogether. Only use Snapchat when connected to WiFi.
You can prevent Snapchat from ever using cellular data:
- Go to phone Settings > Apps > Snapchat
- Tap “Mobile data & Wi-Fi”
- Toggle off “Mobile data”
Now Snapchat will only work when you’re on WiFi. Of course, this means you can’t use Snapchat at all when out and about unless you’re connected to WiFi. But it guarantees no unwanted data usage.
Limit video Snaps
Video Snaps take up way more data than photo Snaps. Sending or viewing longer videos will burn through your data allowance quicker.
If you want to limit data usage, try to avoid sending or opening longer video Snaps, especially when not on WiFi. Stick to photo Snaps as much as possible.
Reduce Story viewing
Stories from your friends and publishers can use a lot of data because they contain photos and videos. The more Stories you view, the more data Snapchat will use.
To reduce data usage, be more selective about which Stories you view. Tap through Stories quickly rather than watching them fully through. And consider unfollowing friends who post long Stories daily.
Limit filters and lenses
Snapchat’s fun filters, lenses, and effects can use up data, especially if you’re previewing multiple options. It takes data to download each filter style or lens to your device.
If you’re concerned about data usage, try applying filters and lenses sparingly. Preview just a couple options rather than swiping through all of them. And avoid filters featuring music, as these take up more data.
Download media only on WiFi
By default, Snapchat will download received Snaps and Stories to your device over cellular data. If you have a limited data plan, it’s best to change this setting:
- Go to Snapchat Settings
- Tap “Manage Preferences” > “Data Usage”
- Turn on “Save Media” only on WiFi
Now Snapchat will wait to download Snaps until you’re connected to WiFi. This preventsunexpectedly high data usage from auto-downloading videos you receive.
Disable Travel Mode
Snapchat’s Travel Mode is designed to download relevant Snaps and Stories for the location you’re visiting. But this constant downloading in the background can eat up a lot of data.
If you have data concerns, consider disabling Travel Mode by going to Snapchat Settings > Manage Preferences > Travel Mode.
Check your usage
Snapchat provides tools to see how much data you’re using, so you can identify if certain behaviors are problematic.
To view your Snapchat data usage:
- Go to Snapchat Settings
- Tap “Manage Preferences” > “Data Usage”
- Review your usage over various time frames
Checking your usage regularly can help you pinpoint what’s consuming excess data, whether it’s Stories, Discover content, or group chats.
Use WiFi when possible
The easiest way to reduce Snapchat data usage is to use the app over WiFi whenever possible. At home, work, school, or a coffee shop, WiFi means Snapchat won’t touch your cellular data allotment.
Get in the habit of only opening Snapchat when a WiFi connection is available. Avoid using data-heavy features like Stories or Travel Mode when you’re out and about without WiFi.
Conclusion
Snapchat provides many options to reduce and manage your data consumption. Enabling Data Saver mode, limiting background refreshing, avoiding cellular data, and using WiFi are key ways to lower data usage. Monitoring your usage in Settings can also help identify problems.
With some adjustments to how you use Snapchat, you can still enjoy connecting with friends while keeping your data use under control.
Tip | How it reduces data usage |
---|---|
Enable Data Saver mode | Lets you manually load Stories instead of auto-downloading |
Limit background refreshing | Stops constant background data pulls when app not in use |
Avoid cellular data | Forces Snapchat to only use WiFi |
Limit video Snaps | Reduces data-heavy video viewing and sending |
Reduce Story viewing | Limits auto-downloading of Stories |
Limit filters/lenses | Reduces data usage from downloading effects |
Download media only on WiFi | Stops auto-downloading of Snaps on cellular |
Disable Travel Mode | Stops background data usage when traveling |
Use WiFi when possible | Avoids cellular data entirely for Snapchat |