| Audio bitrate | One hour | 2 hours/day for 30 days |
|---|---|---|
| 64 kbps | 28.8 MB | 1.73 GB |
| 128 kbps | 57.6 MB | 3.46 GB |
| 192 kbps | 86.4 MB | 5.18 GB |
| 320 kbps | 144 MB | 8.64 GB |
How the estimate is calculated
For constant-bitrate audio, multiply kbps by 3,600 seconds, then divide by 8,000 to estimate decimal megabytes per hour. For example, 128 × 3,600 ÷ 8,000 = 57.6 MB. The table counts the audio payload only. Stream headers, reconnects, artwork and the webpage add data, and variable-bitrate audio can differ from the listed rate.
Which bitrate should you choose?
For speech, a lower-bitrate stream may be sufficient. For music, compare how the stream sounds on your headphones or speakers rather than choosing solely by the largest number. Codec, source quality and the broadcaster's processing also matter. Station cards show a bitrate when the public directory provides one; an absent value means unknown, not zero data usage.
Reduce data while listening
Use Wi-Fi for long sessions when available, choose a lower-bitrate edition if the broadcaster offers one, and use the main player's sleep timer. Turning the volume down does not reduce the number of audio bytes transferred. Pause playback when you finish; leaving a live station quietly playing continues to use data.
Check your real usage
Use your phone's per-app mobile-data report before and after a listening session. Compare sessions on the same network and note how long the radio was playing. Your browser may also load other tabs, so its total is not an exact station measurement. Audio travels directly from the broadcaster to your device; it still counts against your own mobile-data allowance.