While gaming, a PS5 uses about 200-220 watts, an Xbox Series X about 150 W, an Xbox Series S about 75 W, and a Nintendo Switch only about 6-7 W docked. Streaming video uses much less, around 50-60 W on a PS5.
- Running watts
- 160 WTypical; 7–220 W across models
- Starting watts
- NoneNo motor surge
- Per day
- 0.48 kWh3 h of use
- Current
- 1.3 AAt 120 V while running
Figures checked against DOE, ENERGY STAR and manufacturer data on . Your model's label is the final word.
Watts by model and setting
Most game console models draw between 7 and 220 W while running; a typical one draws about 160 W. 160 W x 3 h/day of gaming (between Xbox Series X and PS5). Switch uses about 7 W, so its daily use is tiny.
- Console model: PS5 and Xbox Series X are far hungrier than Series S or Switch
- Activity: gameplay uses the most; menus, loading and video streaming use less
- Rest/standby settings: PS5 rest mode is about 0.3 W, but 3-5 W if it keeps USB ports powered
- Don't forget the TV, which often uses as much as the console
Running a game console on a generator or power station
- Generator: at least 160 running watts. A generator rated 1,000 W or more covers it with room to spare.
- Power station: continuous output of at least 160 W. Pure sine wave output is the safe choice for motors and electronics.
| Power station capacity | Estimated runtime |
|---|---|
| 500 Wh | 2.7 h |
| 1,000 Wh | 5.3 h |
| 2,000 Wh | 10.6 h |
| 3,000 Wh | 15.9 h |
Based on 160 W average draw and 85% usable capacity.
- Size for console plus TV: a PS5 and 55-inch TV together are roughly 300 W
- Use a pure sine wave power station or inverter generator
- A Switch can run for many hours from even a small power bank or power station
- Run any generator outdoors, well away from doors, windows and vents; never in a garage or basement, because of carbon monoxide.
Add it to the generator calculator
Questions people ask
How many watts does a PS5 use?
Sony's ecodesign data shows about 197-219 W during gameplay depending on model (including the PS5 Pro at about 215 W) and about 50-56 W streaming video.
How many watts does an Xbox Series X use?
Microsoft's developer data averages about 154 W during active gameplay and roughly 105-140 W in menus and loading screens.
How much power does a Nintendo Switch use?
Nintendo lists about 7 W (6 W for the OLED model) while gaming in TV mode.