Knowledge

Whether you're setting up a home office or trying to reduce electricity bills, understanding your monitor’s power consumption is essential. From gaming displays to standard office screens, monitor wattage can vary widely depending on size, type, and usage. In this guide, we’ll explain how many watts different monitors use, how to calculate their energy impact, and ways to lower their electricity consumption—without compromising performance.

Part 1: What Is Monitor Wattage & Why It Matters

Monitor wattage refers to the amount of electrical power a monitor consumes during operation, typically measured in watts (W). While monitors are not the most energy-intensive components in a setup, their power usage adds up, especially with prolonged daily use or multi-monitor setups. Understanding wattage helps users reduce electricity costs, choose energy-efficient models, and avoid overloading power sources. Higher wattage doesn’t necessarily mean better performance—factors like panel type, brightness, and refresh rate can all influence consumption.

Part 2: Typical Wattage by Monitor Type and Size

Monitor power consumption varies by technology and size:

• LCD Monitors: Typically consume 20–30W for 24-inch models.
• LED Monitors: More efficient, often using 15–25W for the same size.
• OLED Monitors: Can range from 30W to over 60W depending on brightness and resolution.
• CRT Monitors (older tech): Often exceed 80W.

Size (inches)	LCD (W)	LED (W)	OLED (W)
22"	18–24	14–20	25–35
24"	20–30	15–25	30–40
27"	30–40	20–30	40–60
32"+	35–50+	30–40+	50–80+

Part 3: How to Check and Calculate Your Monitor’s Power Consumption

To check your monitor’s wattage:

• Label or Specs: Check the label on the back or the manufacturer’s website.
• Power Meter: Use a watt meter (e.g., Kill-A-Watt) for real-time measurement.

To estimate power cost:

(Watts × Hours Per Day × Days Per Month × Local kWh Rate) ÷ 1000 = Monthly Cost

Example: A 24W monitor used 8 hours/day: 24 x 8 x 30 x $0.12 / 1000 = $6.91/month

Part 4: Factors That Affect Monitor Power Usage

Several factors influence monitor wattage:

• Brightness: Higher brightness significantly increases power draw.
• Resolution & Refresh Rate: 4K and high-refresh monitors (e.g., 144Hz+) consume more energy.
• Age: Older monitors, especially non-LED, are less efficient.
• Burn-in: Prolonged static images on OLEDs can cause burn-in and increased usage.

Part 5: How to Reduce Monitor Power Consumption

Tips to save energy:

• Lower Brightness: Reducing from 100% to 50% can cut wattage by 30% or more.
• Enable Eco/Power-Saving Mode: Built-in settings reduce unnecessary energy use.
• Use Sleep Mode or Auto-Off: Automatically turns off display when idle.
• Turn Off Overnight: Manual shut-off ensures zero draw.

Part 6: Does Monitor Wattage Affect Other Devices or Setup?

Yes. Consider these:

• Battery Drain on Laptops: External monitors can reduce battery life by 15–30%.
• Multi-Monitor Setups: Dual 27” monitors can double wattage compared to a single screen.
• Overall Load: Total system power = PC + Monitor + Accessories. Always check your power strip’s load capacity.

Part 7: FAQ: Power-Saving, Standby, and Monitor Life

• Q: Does a monitor use power when off?

A: Very minimal (<1W in standby), but still some draw.

• Q: Is it okay to leave monitors on 24/7?

A: It shortens lifespan and increases energy use; auto-sleep is recommended.

• Q: Can turning off a monitor save real money?

A: Yes, turning off a 30W monitor for 8 hours/day can save ~$3/month.

• Q: How can I tell if my monitor gets enough power?

A: Flickering, dim display, or power cycling are signs of insufficient power supply.

Conclusion

Monitor wattage may seem minor, but over time, it adds up—especially if you're using multiple screens or keeping them on for long hours. By understanding how much power your monitor consumes and applying energy-saving habits like adjusting brightness or using eco modes, you can cut down on electricity costs and reduce environmental impact. Whether you’re a casual user or a power user, staying aware of your monitor’s energy footprint makes both practical and financial sense.