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Desktop vs laptop: what they cost to run

Written by James Whitfield · Updated 28 October 2026 · 6 min read · Checked against 2026/27 DWP & HMRC rates
Contents (3 sections)
  1. Quick answer: computer running costs
  2. Costs by machine and load
  3. Who these figures cover
Quick answer: computer running costs
  • Apple's figures: MacBook Air 13-inch M4, 3.63 W idle with the display on (230 V).1
  • Mac mini M4, 4 W idle and 65 W at maximum, “measured from the wall power source and includes all power supply and system losses”. A desktop's monitor is extra.2
  • Eight hours a day for a year at idle: £2.79 (MacBook Air), £3.07 (Mac mini, before its monitor).
  • Last checked: 28 October 2026.

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Costs by machine and load

Apple's published figures, named as examples. Other computers differ: check the maker's figures or use a plug-in energy meter.

At 26.32p per kWh
Machine and loadPowerAn hour8 hours a day for a year
MacBook Air M4, idle3.63 W0.1p£2.79
Mac mini M4, idle4 W0.1p£3.07
Mac mini M4, maximum65 W1.7p£49.96

Switched off, the MacBook Air draws 0.16 W.1

Who these figures cover

Costs use the Ofgem price cap average for England, Scotland and Wales, 26.32p per kWh by Direct Debit, 1 October to 31 December 2026. Your region and tariff change it.3

HMRC: “The temporary zero rate applies from 1 October 2026 to 30 June 2027.” The Budget on 28 October 2026 extended it from 31 March (announced; the legislation is due in early 2027). Gas stays at 5% VAT.4 In Northern Ireland, use the unit rate on your bill.

Frequently asked questions

Is a laptop cheaper to run than a desktop?
Usually a laptop draws less, but it depends on the machines. A desktop also needs a monitor.
How much does a laptop cost per hour?
0.1p an hour for a MacBook Air M4 at idle, at 26.32p per kWh.

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Sources & references

The figures and rules in this guide are drawn from the official UK government sources below. Rates are the confirmed 2026/27 amounts. Each link opens the relevant official page in a new tab.

  1. Apple: MacBook Air M4 Product Environmental Report (March 2025) images.apple.com/environment/pdf/products/notebooks/M4_MacBook_Air_PER_March2025.pdf
  2. Apple: Mac mini power consumption and thermal output support.apple.com/en-gb/103253
  3. Ofgem: Energy price cap unit rates and standing charges, 1 October to 31 December 2026 www.ofgem.gov.uk/your-energy-supply/your-energy-bill/energy-price-cap-unit-rates-and-standing-charges
  4. HMRC: VAT on fuel and power (Notice 701/19), updated 28 October 2026 www.gov.uk/guidance/vat-on-fuel-and-power-notice-70119
Verified against published UK government guidance.
Independent guide only. Written using published 2026/27 DWP and HMRC figures. Not an official government service. For case-specific guidance, contact Citizens Advice or a welfare-rights adviser. Methodology · Editorial standards

Written and reviewed by James Whitfield and the editorial team.

Every figure is checked against current GOV.UK guidance and reviewed for the 2026/27 tax year. We explain the numbers in plain English with worked examples. Editorial standards · About us