Desktop computer vs. computer monitor: running cost
A computer monitor is cheaper to run: about $10 a year versus $38 for a desktop computer at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $28 difference.
| Desktop computer | Computer monitor | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 90 W | 25 W |
| Watt range | 40–250 W | 12–100 W |
| Typical use | 6 hours a day | 6 hours a day |
| Energy per year | 210 kWh | 57 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 1.6¢ | 0.4¢ |
| Cost per day | 10¢ | 2.8¢ |
| Cost per month | $3.15 | $0.85 |
| Cost per year | $38 | $10 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $92 | $25 |
Compare at your rate and settings
What drives the difference
- Desktop computer: A typical desktop tower without a discrete gaming GPU draws 50-120 W in use; sleep mode draws 1-3 W. Monitor not included.
- Computer monitor: Monitors draw 15-60 W at typical brightness; high-refresh gaming and HDR panels sit at the top of the range.
Ways to cut either cost
Certified monitors use about 25% less energy than standard ones.
See options on AmazonSmall PCs do office work at 10-25 W instead of 60-120 W.
See options on AmazonWe may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. It never changes the numbers we show. Disclosure.
Frequently asked questions
Which costs more to run, a desktop computer or a computer monitor?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), a desktop computer costs about $38 a year versus $10 for a computer monitor. That's $28 more, or 3.7× as much.
How many watts do desktop computer and computer monitor use?
A desktop computer typically draws 90 W (range 40–250 W). A computer monitor draws 25 W (range 12–100 W). Watts alone don't decide cost. Hours of use, cycling and standby matter just as much.
Rates: EIA, 12 months ending 2026-07. Methodology.