Laptop Wattage Equation:
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This calculator estimates the total power consumption of a laptop by summing the wattage of individual components and applying a safety factor (1.2-1.3) to account for power spikes and efficiency losses. It's particularly useful for selecting appropriate power adapters or power banks.
The calculator uses the following equation:
Where:
Explanation: The safety factor accounts for power spikes (especially during GPU-intensive tasks) and power supply efficiency.
Details: Proper wattage estimation ensures your power adapter can handle peak loads, prevents overheating, and helps select compatible power banks for mobile use.
Tips:
Q1: Should I use TDP or actual power consumption?
A: For most purposes, TDP is sufficient. For precise calculations, check manufacturer specs for actual power draw under load.
Q2: What if my laptop has multiple GPUs?
A: Sum the wattage of all active GPUs. Some laptops switch between integrated and discrete GPUs.
Q3: How accurate is this estimate?
A: It provides a good baseline. Actual power may vary by 10-15% depending on workload and system configuration.
Q4: Should I round up the wattage?
A: Yes, it's recommended to round up to the nearest common power adapter rating (45W, 65W, 90W, etc.).
Q5: What about USB-powered devices?
A: Add 2.5W (0.5A at 5V) per USB device if they're powered solely by the laptop.