Cost to run a pfSense/OPNsense mini-PC (4x i225)
A pfSense/OPNsense mini-PC (4x i225) (Router / gateway) draws roughly 8 W at idle and up to 20 W under load. Run 24/7 at a typical ~12 W and the US average of $0.17/kWh, it uses about 105 kWh a year and costs roughly $17.87/year ($1.49/month). In higher-priced regions such as Germany (€0.40/kWh) the same device costs about €42.05/year. Adjust the calculator for your own draw and electricity price.
Source: HomelabWatts wattage database. Data as of 2026-06-13.
Fanless multi-NIC mini-PC running pfSense or OPNsense.
Idle vs load running cost
| Scenario | Power | Energy / year | Cost / year (US) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idle | 8 W | 70 kWh | $11.91 |
| Typical 24/7 | 12 W | 105 kWh | $17.87 |
| Full load | 20 W | 175 kWh | $29.78 |
Typically an N5105/N100 with four 2.5GbE NICs. Idle dominates since routers rarely hit full load. 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 | $1.49 | $17.87 |
| Germany | €0.40 | €3.50 | €42.05 |
| France | €0.28 | €2.45 | €29.43 |
| United Kingdom | £0.25 | £2.19 | £26.28 |
| Spain | €0.25 | €2.19 | €26.28 |
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 pfSense/OPNsense mini-PC (4x i225) per year?
At a typical 24/7 draw of about 12 W and the US average of $0.17/kWh, roughly $17.87 per year ($1.49/month). At €0.40/kWh in Germany it is about €42.05. Use the calculator above for your own price.
How many watts does a pfSense/OPNsense mini-PC (4x i225) use?
Approximately 8 W at idle and up to 20 W under load. Typically an N5105/N100 with four 2.5GbE NICs. Idle dominates since routers rarely hit full load.
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