Starlink vs. modem: running cost
A modem is cheaper to run: about $13 a year versus $87 for a Starlink at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $74 difference.
| Starlink | Modem | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 55 W | 8 W |
| Watt range | 20–110 W | 4–15 W |
| Typical use | 24 hours a day | 24 hours a day |
| Energy per year | 482 kWh | 70 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 1.0¢ | 0.1¢ |
| Cost per day | 24¢ | 3.5¢ |
| Cost per month | $7.23 | $1.05 |
| Cost per year | $87 | $13 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $210 | $31 |
Compare at your rate and settings
What drives the difference
- Starlink: A Standard Starlink kit averages about 50-75 W including the router, roughly 500 kWh a year; snow melt mode raises draw in winter.
- Modem: Cable modems and fiber ONTs draw 5-12 W continuously, about 70 kWh a year.
Ways to cut either cost
Modem-router combo
Replaces two always-on devices with one.
See options on Amazon Starlink Mini
Draws about 25 W versus 55 W for the standard dish.
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 Starlink or a modem?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), a Starlink costs about $87 a year versus $13 for a modem. That's $74 more, or 6.9× as much.
How many watts do Starlink and modem use?
A Starlink typically draws 55 W (range 20–110 W). A modem draws 8 W (range 4–15 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.