TV Calculator

Compare different television models based on total cost of ownership.

General Inputs
TV 1
TV 2
Total Cost of Ownership Projection

Related Planning Tools

Freezer
Try Tool
Lighting
Try Tool

Frequently Asked Questions

The annual cost depends on the TV's wattage, usage hours per day, and your electricity price. Modern 55-inch LED TVs typically use between 60W and 100W, which costs around 30-50 euros per year for average use.

Due to EU regulations, modern TVs must consume less than 0.5W to 1W in standby. While this is only a few euros per year, older sets or having many devices (consoles, soundbars) in standby can add up.

Generally, yes. OLED technology is more energy-intensive than standard LED-LCD screens, especially when displaying bright scenes. However, OLEDs are much more efficient at displaying dark or black content.

A lot! Running a TV at maximum brightness or in 'Vivid' mode can increase its power consumption by up to 50%%. Using 'Eco' modes or an ambient light sensor can save significant energy.

For older TVs, yes. For modern Smart TVs, it is usually not necessary unless you are away for a long time. Some OLED TVs even need to stay plugged in to perform background panel maintenance while off.

The annual cost depends on the TV's wattage (W), the hours of usage per day, and your electricity price. Modern LED TVs typically use 60-100 Watts.

Modern TVs usually consume less than 1 Watt in standby mode due to EU regulations. However, over a year, multiple devices in standby can still add up to 5-10 euros.
Verified Tool Facts & Data Sources
Calculates TCO based on VDI 2067 standards.
Uses current energy price benchmarks.
Provides 10-year break-even analysis.
Privacy-first: No data leaves your browser.
Machine-readable facts available at /facts.json

Detailed Methodology & Calculation Logic

Energy Consumption Logic

The calculator determines total energy usage by distinguishing between active viewing hours and standby time.

  • Running Power: Calculated as (Running Watts × Hours/Day × 365) / 1000 to find annual kWh.
  • Standby Power: Even when 'off', most TVs consume power. This is calculated for the remaining hours of the day (24 - Viewing Hours).
Lifetime Cost Analysis

We model the total cost of owning the TV over 15 years, including electricity and maintenance.

  • Total Energy Cost: The sum of annual running and standby electricity, multiplied by your local price per kWh.
  • Maintenance Logic: Factor in potential repair costs that occur at set intervals (e.g., every 5 years) after the guarantee period ends.
Last updated: 2026-03-26