Who spends the most time online? South Africa and Brazil — See where US ranks

LOS ANGELES - As internet access expands and digital habits deepen, global internet users are spending more time online than ever — and in some countries, it now exceeds the time many people spend sleeping.

According to a 2025 digital overview report published by Stocklytics, South Africa and Brazil lead the world in average daily internet use, clocking in at over nine hours per day. The global average stands at six hours and 38 minutes, but usage varies widely by country, with cultural and economic trends shaping how connected — or disconnected — people are.

Which countries spend the most time online each day?

By the numbers:

South Africans topped the global chart with an average of 9 hours and 37 minutes of internet use per day — nearly 3 hours above the global average. That adds up to more than 142 full days online per year. Brazil followed closely at 9 hours and 9 minutes per day.

The Philippines, Chile, Colombia, and Argentina also placed high, each logging over eight hours of screen time daily. These emerging digital economies are increasingly connected through mobile devices, streaming, and social media.

Notably, the United States ranked above the global average, with 6 hours and 40 minutes of daily internet use — higher than other developed nations like Canada (6:12), the UK (5:36), and China (5:35).

Who’s spending the least time online?

The other side:

Japan, often considered a tech innovator, had the lowest average at just 4 hours and 9 minutes per day. Experts attribute this to the country's work-intensive culture and offline-oriented lifestyle, where in-person experiences are still highly valued.

FILE - Close up detail of a businessman working at a desk with a smartphone and laptop computer, taken on January 31, 2019.  (Photo by Neil Godwin/Future via Getty Images)

Denmark (5:10), Greece (5:21), and South Korea (5:22) also ranked among the countries with the lowest average online time.

Global usage trends hint at shifting digital habits

Big picture view:

While the global average rose slightly from earlier in 2024, it was still two minutes lower than the same time last year — a small drop that may reflect changing screen habits as people seek more balance or turn to other forms of media.

Still, the fact remains: in many parts of the world, being online is now nearly a full-time activity. Social platforms, mobile games, and remote work continue to blur the lines between on-screen time and real life, especially in countries where connectivity is both fast and affordable.