Wi-Fi router vs. mesh Wi-Fi system: running cost
A Wi-Fi router is cheaper to run: about $16 a year versus $38 for a mesh Wi-Fi system at typical use and 17.99¢/kWh, a $22 difference.
| Wi-Fi router | Mesh Wi-Fi system | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical watts | 10 W | 24 W |
| Watt range | 5–25 W | 10–50 W |
| Typical use | 24 hours a day | 24 hours a day |
| Energy per year | 88 kWh | 210 kWh |
| Cost per hour | 0.2¢ | 0.4¢ |
| Cost per day | 4.3¢ | 10¢ |
| Cost per month | $1.31 | $3.15 |
| Cost per year | $16 | $38 |
| Per year in Hawaii (43.51¢) | $38 | $92 |
Compare at your rate and settings
What drives the difference
- Wi-Fi router: Routers run 24/7 and draw 6-20 W, about 50-175 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
One box draws less than a separate modem and router.
See options on AmazonOne 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 Wi-Fi router 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 $16 for a Wi-Fi router. That's $22 more, or 2.4× as much.
How many watts do Wi-Fi router and mesh Wi-Fi system use?
A Wi-Fi router typically draws 10 W (range 5–25 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.