How Much Energy Does a TV Use? (And How to Watch Without Wasting)

Streaming your favorite shows is fun—but have you ever wondered how much energy your TV is burning while you binge-watch? Let’s break it down and see how you can enjoy entertainment without wasting electricity.

TV Power Use by Type

• LED TVs (32-55"): 30–100 watts
• OLED TVs: 60–150 watts
• Older Plasma TVs: 150–300 watts

The bigger and brighter the screen, the more energy it typically uses. Settings like brightness and resolution also affect power consumption.

Monthly Energy Cost Example

Let’s say your TV uses 100 watts and you watch for 5 hours a day:

• 100 watts × 5 hours = 500 watt-hours = 0.5 kWh per day
• 0.5 kWh × 30 days = 15 kWh per month
• 15 kWh × $0.20 = $3.00 monthly cost

Tips to Save Energy While Watching

• Lower screen brightness (many TVs are set to max by default)
• Turn off the TV completely—avoid standby mode
• Use a smart power strip to cut phantom energy use
• Consider ENERGY STAR certified TVs for better efficiency

Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget the Accessories

Game consoles, speakers, and streaming boxes also add to your energy use. Turn them off when not in use, and unplug if possible.

Want to know your total home energy usage? Try the WattWise Estimator for a custom breakdown.