Modem vs. mesh Wi-Fi system: running cost
A modem is cheaper to run: about $13 a year versus $38 for a mesh Wi-Fi system at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $25 difference.
| Modem | Mesh Wi-Fi system | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 8 W | 24 W |
| Watt range | 4–15 W | 10–50 W |
| Typical use | 24 hours a day | 24 hours a day |
| Energy per year | 70 kWh | 210 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 0.1¢ | 0.4¢ |
| Cost per day | 3.5¢ | 10¢ |
| Cost per month | $1.05 | $3.15 |
| Cost per year | $13 | $38 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $31 | $92 |
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What drives the difference
- Modem: Cable modems and fiber ONTs draw 5-12 W continuously, about 70 kWh a year.
- Mesh Wi-Fi system: Each mesh node draws 6-12 W around the clock, so a 3-pack uses 150-300 kWh a year.
Ways to cut either cost
Modem-router combo
Replaces two always-on devices with one.
See options on Amazon Single Wi-Fi 6 router
One well-placed router may cover a smaller home with a third of the power.
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 modem or a mesh Wi-Fi system?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), a mesh Wi-Fi system costs about $38 a year versus $13 for a modem. That's $25 more, or 3.0× as much.
How many watts do modem and mesh Wi-Fi system use?
A modem typically draws 8 W (range 4–15 W). A mesh Wi-Fi system draws 24 W (range 10–50 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.