Electronics
Gaming PC Running Cost Calculator UK
Estimate desktop PC running cost for gaming, rendering or heavy workloads.
Estimated running cost
- Per hour
- 11.10p
- Per day
- 33.30p
- Per week
- £2.33
- Per month
- £9.99
- Per year
- £121.56
Formula: PC power draw ÷ 1,000 × hours used × electricity price.
Cost table
| Scenario | Power | Use time | Cost at 24.67p/kWh |
|---|---|---|---|
| Efficient gaming PC, 250W for 3 hours | 250W | 3 hours | 18.50p |
| Typical gaming PC, 450W for 3 hours | 450W | 3 hours | 33.30p |
| High-end PC, 750W for 3 hours | 750W | 3 hours | 55.51p |
Formula
PC power draw ÷ 1,000 × hours used × electricity price = running cost
For example, a 450W gaming PC used for 3 hours at 24.67p/kWh costs 0.45 x 3 x 24.67p = 33.30p.
Ways to reduce the cost
- Use sleep mode instead of leaving the PC idle.
- Cap frame rates where very high FPS is unnecessary.
- Use efficient power supplies and components when upgrading.
- Turn off monitors and speakers when not in use.
FAQs
Does the PSU rating equal usage?
No. A 750W PSU does not mean the PC uses 750W all the time.
How can I measure real usage?
Use a plug-in energy meter for the PC and monitor together.
Do gaming monitors add much?
Large or high-refresh monitors can add meaningful extra watts.
Is idle cost important?
Yes if the machine is left on for many hours.
Last reviewed 3 May 2026. Source: Ofgem energy price cap. Figures are estimates. Actual prices vary by region, supplier, tariff, payment method and meter type.