How to use this calculator
Enter the TV wattage from the label or product specifications, then add how many hours you watch per day. Use your local electricity price per kWh from your utility bill for the most accurate estimate.
The default electricity price is only a sample value. Electricity rates vary by country, state, utility plan, season, and time of use, so the price field is intentionally editable.
If you are comparing TVs before buying, the TV Size Calculator and TV Resolution Calculator can help you decide whether a larger or higher-resolution screen is worth it for your room.
TV electricity cost formula
active kWh per day = TV watts x hours per day / 1000standby kWh per day = standby watts x standby hours / 1000electricity cost = total kWh x electricity price per kWhThe calculator separates active viewing from standby power, then adds both to estimate daily energy use. Monthly cost uses the average number of days per month, while yearly cost uses 365 days.
Assumptions and methodology
This tool estimates running cost from user-entered wattage and price per kWh. It does not measure your actual TV, and it does not know your utility plan, time-of-use pricing, taxes, or fees.
- Power use can change with brightness, HDR, and picture mode.
- Standby cost is estimated from standby watts and the hours when the TV is not actively on.
- Use a plug-in energy meter if you need a real measured value for a specific TV and room setup.
- Check your utility bill for your actual electricity price per kWh.
For the most accurate result, use the electricity price from your own utility bill and the wattage from your TV label, specification sheet, or measured plug-in power meter. Regional averages are only rough context; your local rate and real TV settings are the inputs that matter most.
Example calculations
120 W TV, 5 hours per day
A 120 W TV used for 5 hours per day uses about 0.609 kWh per day when standby is included. At $0.18/kWh, that is about $3.34 per month or $40.04 per year.
TV electricity cost chart
This chart assumes 5 hours of TV use per day, $0.18/kWh electricity, and 0.5 W standby power. Use the calculator above for your own rate and viewing time.
| TV power | Daily energy | Monthly cost | Yearly cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 W | 0.260 kWh | $1.42 | $17.05 |
| 75 W | 0.385 kWh | $2.11 | $25.26 |
| 100 W | 0.509 kWh | $2.79 | $33.47 |
| 120 W | 0.609 kWh | $3.34 | $40.04 |
| 150 W | 0.759 kWh | $4.16 | $49.90 |
| 200 W | 1.01 kWh | $5.53 | $66.32 |
Related calculators
TV Size Calculator
Estimate the best TV size for your room and seating distance.
TV Viewing Distance Calculator
Find a comfortable TV viewing distance based on screen size, aspect ratio, and field of view.
TV Dimensions Calculator
Convert diagonal TV size into approximate screen width and height.
TV Mount Height Calculator
Plan a comfortable wall-mount height from eye level, screen size, and viewing angle.
TV Resolution Calculator
Compare 1080p, 4K, and 8K detail based on TV size, viewing distance, and visual acuity.
FAQ
How much does it cost to run a TV?
Using the default example of 120 watts, 5 hours per day, and $0.18/kWh, the TV costs about $3.34 per month or $40.04 per year.
How do I find my TV wattage?
Check the TV label, product specification sheet, EnergyGuide label, or power adapter. Actual power use can change with brightness, HDR content, picture mode, screen size, and panel technology.
Does standby mode use much electricity?
Usually it is small compared with active viewing, but it can still add a little cost over a full year. Leave standby included for a realistic estimate, or turn it off if you only want active viewing cost.
How much does it cost to leave a TV on all day?
Set daily viewing time to 24 hours. The calculator will estimate the daily, monthly, and yearly cost using the wattage and electricity price you enter.
Do larger TVs always cost more to run?
Larger TVs often use more power, but not always. Brightness, display technology, energy-saving mode, HDR settings, and model efficiency can matter as much as screen size.
Why is my actual TV electricity cost different?
Your bill may differ because electricity rates vary by location and plan, TV power changes with content and settings, and the wattage printed on a label may be a maximum or rated value rather than your exact real-world usage.