How many watts does a laptop use?
Updated
Running watts
60 W
Starting watts
60 W
Energy per day
360 Wh
A laptop typically draws about 60 watts while running. At about 6 h of use a day, that is roughly 360 Wh per day. These are typical values from generator wattage charts: the label on your own appliance (or its EnergyGuide sticker) gives the exact figure.
What size generator do I need for a laptop?
Plan for at least 72 W: 60 W to get through the start-up surge, plus a 20% margin so the generator never runs flat out. Of the common sizes, a 2,000 W generator is the smallest that fits.
| Generator | Can it run a laptop? |
|---|---|
| 2,000 W | Yes |
| 3,500 W | Yes |
| 5,000 W | Yes |
| 7,500 W | Yes |
| 10,000 W | Yes |
| 15,000 W | Yes |
How long will a power station run a laptop?
Running continuously at 60 W, assuming 85% of the battery is usable. The station's AC output must also handle the 60 W start-up surge.
| Battery capacity | Runtime |
|---|---|
| 1,000 Wh | about 14 h |
| 2,000 Wh | about 28 h |
| 3,600 Wh | about 2.1 days |
Running more than one appliance?
Starting surges don't add up the way running watts do. Pick everything you want to power to get your real number.
Open the Generator Size Calculator for Your HomeFrequently asked questions
What size generator do I need to run a laptop?
At least 72 W: 60 W to cover the start-up surge, plus a 20% safety margin.
Can a 2,000 watt generator run a laptop?
Yes. 2,000 W covers its 60 W starting surge with room to spare.
Can a 3,500 watt generator run a laptop?
Yes. 3,500 W covers its 60 W starting surge with room to spare.
How long will a 1,000 Wh power station run a laptop?
About 14 h, assuming 85% usable capacity, as long as the station's AC output is rated for 60 W of surge.
Never run a generator indoors or in a garage: see the CPSC safety guide.