Why do computer monitors have such a poor power rating?

If you have a laptop, love to stream videos or play games, or want a few extra monitors to work with, chances are you already have one. Multiple computer monitors allow you to multitask and use multiple apps and websites at the same time.

However, computer monitors are notoriously inefficient when it comes to energy use, with many models falling into the E, F or G rating category. So why is this the case and what can you do to reduce your monitor's power usage?

Why are computer monitors so energy efficient?

Display technology, especially TVs and monitors, is not very efficient. This is because the power output is very high compared to other devices.

According to Digital Europe, display technology has achieved a power efficiency improvement of 41.3% since 2011. However, there is still a long way to go as many display-based devices still have poor power ratings.

This is because TVs and monitors have very high power outputs, affecting their overall efficiency. Constantly displaying a bright screen, especially if you're streaming or gaming, means your monitor must have a high power output.

Any device with a power rating below D is considered to have below average performance.

However, it is worth noting that some countries have introduced more stringent energy ratings to reduce the impact on the environment. For example, the EU released a new energy rating chart in March 2021. The new chart revisits appliances with ratings A+, A++ and A+++, removing these three categories and pushing many of the categories that were previously at the top of the ratings down to B, C or D.

This has a trickle effect, meaning that a monitor that was considered a D rating a few years ago is now an E or F. This is likely why you see many displays with lower power ratings hitting the market.

Does the power rating really matter?

In short, yes. Energy rating is an important factor to consider. The energy rating of a given product reflects how it will affect your electricity bill and the environment. These are the official outlines provided by governments and organizations that you should keep in mind if you are concerned about your home's energy efficiency.

Different countries have different energy assessment processes. For example, the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Energy's Energy Star program show which products, homes, and buildings are the most energy efficient. Energy Star's overall goal is to help individuals and businesses reduce their negative environmental impact and save money.

In the UK, on ​​the other hand, electrical products have an energy rating label, from A to G. As you might have guessed, products rated A are the most energy efficient, while products rated G are the least. Many monitors fall into the DG range, which means they'll hurt your monthly bill or hurt the planet.

How to reduce your monitor's power usage

Reducing your display's energy use can help reduce your electricity bills and make you a more eco-friendly user of technology.

To do this, you might consider reducing the brightness of your screen. A beautiful bright display is great, but this can dramatically increase the display's power output. Moreover, screens that are too bright can harm your eyes. Brightness also doesn't have to be minimal if this interferes with your experience, but just turning it down a few notches can certainly make a difference.

Also, make sure you don't turn on the monitor if you're not using it. Your monitor may start up automatically if it's hard-wired to your PC, but if you don't need both monitors, make sure you cut this connection by removing the HDMI cable. If your monitor is not in use, consider unplugging it from the power source.

Isabella Humphrey

Update 24 July 2023