Cost to run a Dell OptiPlex Micro (i5)
A Dell OptiPlex Micro (i5) (Mini-PC) draws roughly 8 W at idle and up to 40 W under load. Run 24/7 at a typical ~18 W and the US average of $0.17/kWh, it uses about 158 kWh a year and costs roughly $26.81/year ($2.23/month). In higher-priced regions such as Germany (€0.40/kWh) the same device costs about €63.07/year. Adjust the calculator for your own draw and electricity price.
Source: HomelabWatts wattage database. Data as of 2026-06-13.
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Idle vs load running cost
| Scenario | Power | Energy / year | Cost / year (US) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idle | 8 W | 70 kWh | $11.91 |
| Typical 24/7 | 18 W | 158 kWh | $26.81 |
| Full load | 40 W | 350 kWh | $59.57 |
Idle depends on generation and enabled C-states. Excellent performance-per-watt secondhand. Source: HomelabWatts wattage database, data as of 2026-06-13.
Cost by region (typical 24/7 draw)
| Region | Price/kWh | Cost / month | Cost / year |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States (avg residential) | $0.17 | $2.23 | $26.81 |
| Germany | €0.40 | €5.26 | €63.07 |
| France | €0.28 | €3.68 | €44.15 |
| United Kingdom | £0.25 | £3.29 | £39.42 |
| Spain | €0.25 | €3.29 | €39.42 |
Prices from electricity price presets (EIA / Eurostat), data as of 2026-06-01. Excludes standing charges and taxes.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to run a Dell OptiPlex Micro (i5) per year?
At a typical 24/7 draw of about 18 W and the US average of $0.17/kWh, roughly $26.81 per year ($2.23/month). At €0.40/kWh in Germany it is about €63.07. Use the calculator above for your own price.
How many watts does a Dell OptiPlex Micro (i5) use?
Approximately 8 W at idle and up to 40 W under load. Idle depends on generation and enabled C-states. Excellent performance-per-watt secondhand.
Are these figures measured or estimated?
Estimated. They are compiled from manufacturer specifications and community wall-meter measurements; your exact draw depends on configuration, firmware and attached storage. Measure at the wall for a precise figure.
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Last updated: 2026-06-13