Starlink vs. Wi-Fi router: running cost
A Wi-Fi router is cheaper to run: about $16 a year versus $87 for a Starlink at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $71 difference.
| Starlink | Wi-Fi router | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 55 W | 10 W |
| Watt range | 20–110 W | 5–25 W |
| Typical use | 24 hours a day | 24 hours a day |
| Energy per year | 482 kWh | 88 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 1.0¢ | 0.2¢ |
| Cost per day | 24¢ | 4.3¢ |
| Cost per month | $7.23 | $1.31 |
| Cost per year | $87 | $16 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $210 | $38 |
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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.
- Wi-Fi router: Routers run 24/7 and draw 6-20 W, about 50-175 kWh a year.
Ways to cut either cost
Modem-router combo
One box draws less than a separate modem and router.
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 Wi-Fi router?
At typical use and the U.S. average rate (17.99¢/kWh), a Starlink costs about $87 a year versus $16 for a Wi-Fi router. That's $71 more, or 5.5× as much.
How many watts do Starlink and Wi-Fi router use?
A Starlink typically draws 55 W (range 20–110 W). A Wi-Fi router draws 10 W (range 5–25 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.