Calculate your cost
Start with a representative input, then edit all three numbers.
This setup uses about 60 kWh in a 30-day month.
Please enter valid values within the ranges shown.
| Schedule | Hours/day | Cost/month |
|---|---|---|
| Half runtime | 2 | $5.65 |
| Starting point | 4 | $11.30 |
| Longer runtime | 6 | $16.95 |
Same 500-watt input and 18.83¢/kWh rate; only runtime changes.
The quick formula
0.5 kW × 4 hours × $0.1883 = $0.38 per day
Convert watts to kilowatts, multiply by the active hours used each day, then multiply by the electricity price in dollars per kWh. Multiply the daily result by 30 for the monthly estimate shown above.
How to read this estimate
A gaming PC changes power draw with the game, frame rate, graphics settings, and hardware. The power supply's label shows its maximum capacity, not the computer's constant consumption, so a wall meter gives the best personal estimate.
The starting values keep this page useful before you have a label or meter reading. They do not describe every model, climate, operating mode, or household.
What changes the cost?
- 01
GPU and CPU load, frame rate, and graphics settings
- 02
Monitor count, display brightness, and peripheral devices
- 03
Idle time, sleep settings, and power-supply efficiency
Ways to spend less
- Cap unnecessary frame rates and use balanced power settings.
- Enable sleep after a short idle period.
- Turn off secondary displays and accessories when they are not needed.