Home security system vs. security camera: running cost
A security camera is cheaper to run: about $8 a year versus $13 for a home security system at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $5 difference.
| Home security system | Security camera | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 8 W | 5 W |
| Watt range | 3–20 W | 2–15 W |
| Typical use | 24 hours a day | 24 hours a day |
| Energy per year | 70 kWh | 44 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 0.1¢ | 0.09¢ |
| Cost per day | 3.5¢ | 2.2¢ |
| Cost per month | $1.05 | $0.66 |
| Cost per year | $13 | $8 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $31 | $19 |
Compare at your rate and settings
What drives the difference
- Home security system: A security system's control panel, keypad and sensors typically draw 4-15 W continuously, including battery charging.
- Security camera: Wired cameras draw about 3-7 W each, around the clock; infrared night vision adds 1-3 W. An NVR recorder adds 10-25 W.
Ways to cut either cost
Solar-powered security camera
Runs on its own panel and battery, with no grid electricity cost.
See options on Amazon DIY wireless alarm system
Low-power base stations draw a few watts.
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 home security system or a security camera?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), a home security system costs about $13 a year versus $8 for a security camera. That's $5 more, or 1.6× as much.
How many watts do home security system and security camera use?
A home security system typically draws 8 W (range 3–20 W). A security camera draws 5 W (range 2–15 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.