How many watts do a wi-fi router and modem use?
Every number here comes from a named source. Generator charts give a generous figure for sizing a generator or power station. Test data and manufacturer specs show what the appliance draws.
- Running
- 4 to 20 W
- Voltage
- 120 V
How long it runs on a battery
| Battery | Runtime |
|---|---|
| 1 kWh | 43 h |
| 2 kWh | 4 days |
| 3 kWh | 5 days |
| 5 kWh | 9 days |
Running nonstop at 20 W, with 85% of the battery usable after inverter losses.
What each source says
| Figure | Value | Source and basis |
|---|---|---|
| Running | 20 (9 to 29) W | Xfinity, Internet equipment energy usageReady-state power of 19 Xfinity modem-router gateways, measured under the Small Network Equipment Voluntary Agreement. Median 20 W. |
| Running | 4 (2 to 7) W | Xfinity, Internet equipment energy usageXfinity Wi-Fi extenders and pods (basic LNE): 2 to 6.5 W. |
Good to know
- The modem and router stay on all day, so 20 W adds up to about 0.5 kWh a day.
- Many routers run on 12 V DC, which a power station can supply without its inverter.