How much does a laptop cost to run?

Laptops draw 25–65 watts while in use and 5–15 watts sleeping, with battery charging adding 5–10 watts. Most users see negligible monthly energy costs from laptop operation alone.

Typical running cost (18.83¢/kWh, U.S. average, 2026-04)

BasisCost
Per hour (while running, 60 W typical)$0.011
Per day (8 h/day, 5/7 days)$0.065
Per month$1.97
Per year$23.58
Hourly range (small 30 W – large 100 W)$0.006 – $0.019
Save: Adjust screen brightness to comfortable levels and close unused applications to extend battery life and reduce heat.

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