How Much Data Does Tinder Use?
Tinder can be a fun way to meet people and discover new places while traveling, but using it abroad can also rack up unexpected data charges. When you're abroad, swiping left or right, exchanging messages, and checking out new profiles can quickly drain your data. But how much data does Tinder actually use while you're on the road? And how can you connect with new friends or potential dates without worrying about roaming fees? Let's break it down.
How Much Data Does Tinder Use?
On average, Tinder uses between 10MB to 20MB of data per hour, depending on how much you're browsing profiles or chatting. Here's a closer look at Tinder's data consumption abroad:
- Browsing profiles: Around 5MB to 10MB per hour.
- Messaging matches: About 1MB per hour.
- Sending or receiving images: Data spikes here, with each image around 2MB.
While this may not seem like much, using Tinder over several days abroad can add up, especially with roaming fees. Here are some easy ways to keep Tinder's data usage low and save on roaming charges.
Tips for Reducing Tinder's Data Usage While Traveling
Here are some travel-friendly tips to help you keep using Tinder abroad without the fear of a data-drain surprise:
1. Use Wi-Fi Whenever You Can
The best way to reduce data usage is to hop on Wi-Fi whenever possible, like in hotels, cafes, or public spaces. This lets you swipe, chat, and update your profile without eating into your mobile data.
2. Turn Off Background App Refresh for Tinder
Tinder may run in the background, consuming extra data even when you're not actively swiping. Here's how to turn it off:
Go to your phone's Settings > Apps > Tinder and disable Background App Refresh.
3. Limit Data Usage for Photos and Videos
Loading high-quality images and videos can increase data usage. To manage this:
- Go to Settings in Tinder and reduce the app's image quality.
- Turn off autoplay for videos to save data, especially if you're on a limited plan.
4. Set Up Data Saver Mode on Your Device
Data Saver Mode on your phone helps cut down on app data usage overall, which is especially helpful while roaming:
- On iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > enable Low Data Mode.
- On Android: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Data Saver > turn it on.
5. Get an eSIM
Using an eSIM can save you from high roaming fees while traveling abroad. eSIMs are secure, easy to install, and let you use Tinder without hefty roaming charges. For travelers, this can be an affordable option for data-heavy apps like Tinder.
Related: What Is an eSIM and Do I Need One?
Helpful Tips to Avoid Excessive Scrolling on Tinder Abroad
It's easy to lose track of time while swiping, so here are some tricks to help you avoid excessive scrolling and data use:
1. Set App Limits
Both iOS and Android allow you to set daily time limits for apps, which can be helpful when using Tinder abroad:
- On iPhone: Go to Settings > Screen Time > App Limits and set a limit for Tinder.
- On Android: Go to Settings > Digital Wellbeing > Dashboard > select Tinder and set a daily limit.
2. Turn Off Notifications
Tinder notifications are designed to bring you back into the app, even if you're not thinking about it. Turning them off can save data and help you be more mindful of your usage:
- Go to Settings > Notifications > Tinder and toggle them off.
Avoid Data Roaming Fees With an eSIM
It's easy to rack up roaming fees while finding potential matches abroad. Luckily, an eSIM can give you access to affordable data without the hassle of unexpected roaming charges, so you don't break the bank with every swipe.
With an eSIM from Airalo, you pay for the data you need upfront. There are no hidden fees or unexpected charges. And if you run low on data, you don't need to say goodbye to WhatsApp — simply top up your data in the Airalo app.
Find an eSIM for your next adventure on the Airalo website or Airalo app (App Store | Google Play Store).
