Smart speaker vs. streaming device: running cost
A streaming device is cheaper to run: about $3 a year versus $5 for a smart speaker at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $2 difference.
| Smart speaker | Streaming device | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 3 W | 3 W |
| Watt range | 2–10 W | 2–15 W |
| Typical use | 24 hours a day | 5 hours a day |
| Energy per year | 26 kWh | 16 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 0.05¢ | 0.05¢ |
| Cost per day | 1.3¢ | 0.8¢ |
| Cost per month | $0.39 | $0.24 |
| Cost per year | $5 | $3 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $11 | $7 |
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What drives the difference
- Smart speaker: Smart speakers stay on 24/7 listening for a wake word, drawing 2-4 W idle; smart displays with screens draw 5-8 W. Playing music adds a few watts.
- Streaming device: Sticks draw 2-4 W while streaming; most stay at 1-3 W when 'off'. Even year-round they use under 25 kWh.
Ways to cut either cost
Streaming stick
Replaces 25-70 W cable boxes and consoles for most viewing.
See options on Amazon Smart plug
Lets the speaker shut off standby loads elsewhere in the house.
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 smart speaker or a streaming device?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), a smart speaker costs about $5 a year versus $3 for a streaming device. That's $2 more, or 1.7× as much.
How many watts do smart speaker and streaming device use?
A smart speaker typically draws 3 W (range 2–10 W). A streaming device draws 3 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.