Screen time refers to the amount of time a person spends looking at digital screens, including smartphones, computers, tablets, TVs, and other internet-connected devices. In today’s digital age, screens are deeply integrated into our daily lives, whether for work, entertainment, education, or communication.
Latest Screen Time Statistics in 2025
- Globally, the average daily screen time is about 6 hours and 40 minutes.
- In the United States, screen time averages around 6 hours and 40 minutes per day, slightly down from the 2021 peak of 7 hours.
- The average smartphone use alone is about 4 hours and 37 minutes per day, with users checking their phones nearly 58 times daily.
- Children and teenagers in the U.S. spend approximately 7 to 8 hours per day on screens.
- South Africans have the highest reported screen time globally at over 9 hours a day.
- The content most consumed includes online videos (over 50%), social media (around 13%), and gaming (nearly 10%).
Screen Time Breakdown by Device and Media Type (U.S. Data)
| Media Type | Average Daily Screen Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| TV Watching | 4 hours 37 minutes | Traditional television viewing |
| Internet on Computer | 42 minutes | Browsing, work, or general use |
| Video on Computer | 17 minutes | Streaming or downloaded videos |
| Apps/Web on Smartphone | 2 hours 21 minutes | Social media, browsing, apps |
| Apps/Web on Tablet | 37 minutes | Similar activities as on smartphones |
| Total Screen Time | 8 hours 34 minutes | Including all above forms |
Screen Time Guidelines
Children and Teens
- Under 18 months: No screen time except video chatting.
- 18-24 months: Only high-quality, educational content with parental involvement.
- 2-5 years: Limit to 1 hour per day.
- 5 years and above: Limit to 2 hours per day, with conversations about content.
- Preteens and teenagers: Balance screen time with physical activities and social interaction.
Effects and Considerations of Screen Time
- Excessive screen time can lead to sleep problems, attention issues, anxiety, depression, and obesity, especially in children.
- Sedentary behavior during screen time reduces physical activity leading to health risks.
- TV and screen ads can influence unhealthy eating habits in children.
- However, limited screen usage can also help with learning and mental health when controlled properly.
Tips to Manage Screen Time
- Set daily time limits on device usage.
- Encourage physical activities like biking, playing outdoors, dancing, or walking pets.
- Engage children in non-screen hobbies.
- Monitor content quality and watch screens together.
- Use apps to track and restrict screen time if necessary.
Summary Table: Average Daily Screen Time by Age Group
| Age Group | Average Daily Screen Time |
|---|---|
| Under 2 years | Less than 1 hour |
| 2 to 5 years | Up to 1 hour |
| 6 to 8 years | Around 2 hours |
| 8 to 12 years | About 7 hours |
| 13 to 18 years | Around 8 hours |
| Adults (18+) | Around 6 hours 40 minutes |
Conclusion
Screen time is an unavoidable aspect of modern life, with adults and children spending several hours daily on various devices. While it can provide entertainment, education, and connection, managing its duration and content is crucial to prevent health problems and ensure balanced, healthy lifestyles.
Limiting unnecessary screen exposure and promoting active, engaging alternatives are key steps for individuals and families to maintain well-being in this digital era.
