How much data does Skype video use?

Share post ->

For those of us who are constraint with limited bandwidth, you will realize that video takes up a lot of bandwidth.  I’ve been doing tests on various video websites (youtube, Vimeo, BBC and CNN).  I also measure Skype video as well since most of us (especially those living aboard) Skype is a great tool to connect with our friends and family.

I use NetLimiter to measure how much data Skype video is using on a 1 hr 9 min conversation (that’s 69 minutes).

In this conversation, 24.67 mb is download and 696.47 mb is upload.  The total data used is 721.14 mb.

How much data Skype video use
This means that Skype video is using 10.45 mb/minute.

As you can see, the amount of upload is many times moer than download.  When I was on Skype video, the data upload rate is about 0.20 mb/sec.   What this means is that if you want to reduce your data usage, consider disabling your web cam when you Skype.

What about just audio? I haven’t done that yet.  But I will keep it in mind to measure next time.

[adinserter block=”1″]

4 Responses

    1. Hi John,

      Great idea. Let me get to it next time i use Skype for an audio talk.

      Will let you know when I upload the test.

      Cheers,
      Cliff

      Reply

    1. Hi Charlie,

      Not yet as I haven’t done any Skype calls. When I am free-er next time, I will run an audio test on Skype and let you know.

      Thanks,
      Cliff

      Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

If you are bored :-)

Cliff lying down with his baby daughter. It is a thumbnail for a blog post.

The Painful Tension Between Ministry and Family

There was a season when Wai Jia and I attended a missions conference with our two-year-old and our baby. We have always loved missions, so being there stirred something in me again. I remember sitting in that environment and feeling the old desire rise up in my heart. I wanted

April 1, 2026
Cliff with his two daughters. One is a baby and the other is a toddler.

Confession of a Stay-At-Home Dad

A Biblical Vision for Christian Fatherhood I never planned to become a stay-at-home dad. If you had asked me years ago what faithful Christian living looked like, I would have said ministry, missions, or serving in church. Not changing diapers.Not managing tantrums.Not slowly climbing stairs with two little kids. But

March 20, 2026

When Your Wife’s Calling Is Bigger Than Yours: A Christian Husband Reflects

What happens when a husband feels like his wife’s calling or career is bigger than his own? Many Christian couples quietly wrestle with this question, especially as they seek to understand the biblical roles of husband and wife. Recently, a friend asked me a question about marriage, work, and calling.

March 17, 2026