If you are one of the low data cap internet users, it is vital to know the bandwidth used by each of your devices. Click here to learn more about – how much bandwidth does Alexa uses?
Amazon Alexa’s Bandwidth Usage
There are a lot of factors that add up to your bandwidth consumption. Since everyone uses their Echo devices for different purposes, these factors can help you understand your bandwidth usage and control it.
Let us first know about these factors.
Does Alexa Use Bandwidth When Idle?
Yes, Echo devices are always connected to the internet connection, so they will, of course, consume some of your bandwidth even when in an idle condition. However, it is not very significant, so you don’t have to worry about it.
For instance, if your Alexa device is in idle condition for, say, 12 hours, it will only consume around 2 to 3 MB.
What Is The Usage When You Are Streaming An Audio?
If you stream music regularly, then the consumption may be a bit more for you. However, if you are an occasional music streamer, you don’t have to worry much as it will not be a significant usage.
For instance, if you endlessly stream music for an hour, you will likely spend 100 MB of your data plan.
So, if you think you are spending too much here, you can limit your music streaming on your Alexa device to save your data.
How Much Bandwidth Does Alexa Use To Process The Commands?
When you give commands to your Alexa, it will use some KBs to process your request. Here is a list of average bandwidth usage for some of your common orders.
| ALEXA COMMAND | BANDWIDTH USAGE |
| “Alexa, turn on the lights upstairs.” | 5kB |
| “Alexa, what is the weather today?” | 140 kB |
| “Alexa, play [radio station] | 30 MB |
These are average figures, but they can give you a rough idea of your usage. On average, your Amazon Alexa uses around 12-15kB every minute, even when idle.
When you add up the command and other functionalities, it will not be more than 1.2-1.5 GB per day.
How Much Data Does It Cost For Software Updates?
Amazon keeps on upgrading its smart devices, and hence you will require to update your software periodically to enjoy the new features.
This will cost you a considerable amount of MBs. However, these updates are not too regular, so there is not much to be worried about.
How Can I Calculate My Alexa’s Data Usage?
For this, you can track your router’s traffic monitoring. In most cases, this shall help you to track your bandwidth usage.
Wrapping Up
All in all, even if you are a low data cap internet user, you do not have to worry about how much bandwidth does Alexa uses.
However, if you are still worried, you can control your data usage with Alexa, as after reading this article, you are aware of where your data is going.
In most cases, Alexa’s bandwidth usage is affordable for users who are on limited data cap plans.