6-Watt vs 15-Watt Wi-Fi Router: Running Cost Compared
A 15-watt Wi-Fi router costs $1.13 more per month than a 6-watt Wi-Fi router ($13.80 per year), assuming 24 hours a day at $0.175/kWh. Per hour the difference is $0.002.
Side by side
| 6-watt Wi-Fi Router | 15-watt Wi-Fi Router | |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 6 W | 15 W |
| Hours per day | 24 | 24 |
| Cost per hour | $0.001 | $0.003 |
| Cost per day | $0.025 | $0.063 |
| Cost per week | $0.176 | $0.441 |
| Cost per month | $0.756 | $1.89 |
| Cost per year | $9.20 | $23.00 |
| Energy per year | 52.6 kWh | 131 kWh |
Based on $0.175 per kWh (US average).
Which should you choose?
Higher wattage does not always mean more heat or output per dollar, and it does not always mean it runs longer. A bigger unit may reach the target temperature faster and then cycle off. Compare size to your room or job before you decide.
Want your own numbers? Open either calculator and enter your hours and rate: 6-watt Wi-Fi Router or 15-watt Wi-Fi Router.