Laptop Computer Wattage for Generator Sizing
About the Laptop Computer
A standard laptop computer being charged or running from the charger. Laptops draw very little power from the wall, making them the most generator-friendly computing option. The built-in battery provides additional resilience since the laptop can continue operating even if generator power is briefly interrupted. For remote workers and students, keeping laptops charged is often a top priority during outages. A single laptop charger adds minimal load to any generator configuration.
Generator Sizing for a Laptop Computer
Running a laptop computer by itself requires a generator with at least 75 W of capacity (1 kW), which includes a 25% safety margin. However, you rarely run a single appliance on a generator. When combined with other appliances, the laptop computer contributes 60 W to the continuous running load.
The laptop computer is a resistive load, meaning it uses a heating element or simple electronic circuit rather than a motor. Resistive loads draw the same wattage from the moment they turn on until they turn off, with no starting surge. This makes them the easiest type of appliance to run on a generator. When calculating your total generator load, the laptop computer adds a flat 60 W to your running total with no impact on peak surge calculations. Resistive loads also produce a power factor of 1.0, meaning they use electricity very efficiently with no wasted reactive power.
To determine the total generator size you need, use our interactive calculator to combine the laptop computer with your other appliances. The calculator automatically handles the starting surge calculation and applies the 25% safety margin to give you an accurate recommendation. Alternatively, browse the scenarios below to see common generator setups that include the laptop computer.
Scenarios That Include Laptop Computer
The following pre-calculated generator scenarios include the laptop computer in their appliance list. Each scenario shows the total generator size needed for all appliances in the set, not just the laptop computer alone. Click any scenario to see the full appliance breakdown.
| Scenario | Total Appliances | Running Watts | Recommended Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Apartment Essentials | 7 | 1,855 W | 3 kW |
Tips for Running a Laptop Computer on a Generator
Running a laptop computer on a generator is straightforward since it is a purely resistive load. There are no special starting procedures or surge considerations. Simply ensure your generator's continuous (rated) wattage exceeds 60 W plus the wattage of all other appliances running simultaneously.
Since the laptop computer draws a constant 60 W whenever it is operating, you can accurately predict generator fuel consumption. At typical generator fuel efficiencies, running the laptop computer continuously adds approximately 0.0 gallons of gasoline per hour to your fuel consumption. If the laptop computer operates intermittently (like a thermostat-controlled heater), the actual fuel impact will be lower.
For sensitive electronic components within the laptop computer, an inverter generator provides the cleanest power output. However, most resistive appliances work fine on conventional generators as well. If you are running the laptop computer along with sensitive electronics like computers, the inverter generator protects all connected devices.
Laptop Computer Wattage Compared to Similar Appliances
The following table compares the laptop computer to other appliances in the entertainment & electronics category. Understanding relative power requirements helps you make informed decisions about which appliances to prioritize on your generator and where you might find opportunities to reduce your total load.
| Appliance | Running Watts | Starting Watts |
|---|---|---|
| Laptop Computer (this appliance) | 60 W | — |
| TV LED 55-inch | 80 W | — |
| TV Plasma 55-inch | 300 W | — |
| Gaming Console | 200 W | — |
| Desktop Computer | 300 W | — |
| Home Theater System | 350 W | — |
| WiFi Router / Modem | 20 W | — |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many watts does a laptop computer use?
A laptop computer uses approximately 60 watts of continuous (running) power during normal operation. As a resistive load with no motor, it has no starting surge above its running wattage.
What size generator do I need to run a laptop computer?
To run a laptop computer by itself, you need a generator rated for at least 75 W (1 kW), which includes a 25% safety margin above the running wattage of 60W. However, most people run additional appliances alongside the laptop computer, so your actual generator needs will be higher. Use our calculator to add your other appliances and get a comprehensive recommendation.
Can I run a laptop computer on an inverter generator?
Yes, a laptop computer runs perfectly well on an inverter generator. As a resistive load with no motor starting surge, it is one of the easiest appliances to power with any generator type. The clean sine wave output of an inverter generator is a bonus for any electronic components.