Our devices are very "talkative", even when we aren't using the internet, and they might "talk" more or less depending on which network they are connected to.
Assuming the device transmits the same amount of data, irrespective of network, using WiFi instead of cellular is always the option that uses less power.
However, WP is smart enough to prioritize WiFi all by itself, so micromanaging cellular network on/off states yourself is pointless.
Originally Posted by
Stef8600 IMO that would be WIFI, If I'm correct, the mobile data connection will - when disconnected - not reconnect unless it is needed by an app.
WIFI will continuesly send packets to the access point and try to reconnect when disconnected...
If somebody disagrees, pls let me know.
•raises hand• ;-)
Your phone can also be woken up remotely, over the cellular network, not just by apps. For example, you can turn WiFi off, and your sleeping device will still get notifications over cellular data.
On a side note: a lot of people think that when not using their device, turning WiFi off saves battery power, but tests have shown this to be incorrect. Turning WiFi on, by itself, doesn't do anything really. The device just sits their waiting for WiFi access points to broadcast their ID, which is essentially free in terms of power consumption.
Apps can make this a bit confusing however, as some apps will only do their thing over a WiFi network and do nothing when WiFi isn't available. Some folks don't realize they have such apps and then claim that turning WiFi on uses a lot if battery power, not realizing that the only thing they've really turned 'on' is that WiFi enabled app.
