There is no single cost: it depends on the mini PC’s average power draw at the wall while your loop is running and your electricity price. Use annual kWh = average watts × 8.76 ÷ 1,000, then multiply by your local price per kWh. For example, a system drawing 10 W continuously uses 87.6 kWh in a 365-day year; its electricity cost is 87.6 times your per-kWh rate.
Calculate your own annual electricity cost
First find the average wall draw of the complete computer in the setup you intend to run. Then use these formulas:
- Annual electricity use: average watts × 24 hours × 365 days ÷ 1,000 = annual kWh.
- Annual electricity cost: annual kWh × your electricity price per kWh.
At continuous operation, each watt of average draw uses 8.76 kWh per 365-day year. Your tariff, taxes, and billing structure determine the cost; no universal electricity rate applies.
Example using a measured average
If a wall meter shows an average of 10 W while your loop runs, the calculation is 10 × 8.76 = 87.6 kWh per year. Multiply 87.6 by your actual price per kWh to estimate the annual electricity charge. This is an arithmetic example, not a published bill estimate.
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What N100 mini PC measurements can—and cannot—tell you
Reviews show that N100 systems differ, and that playback can draw more power than idle operation. These are readings from particular computers and test setups, not guarantees for every N100 mini PC or direct measurements of a continuous YouTube loop.
| System and source | Reported reading | Test context and limits |
|---|---|---|
| MINIX Z100-0dB; CNX Software review, February 25, 2024 source | 8.9–9.2 W idle; 14.7–17.9 W during YouTube playback | Windows 11; YouTube in Chrome at 8K60; Wi-Fi 6, wireless keyboard/mouse dongle, and a display connected through an HDMI-to-VGA adapter. This is a demanding playback test, not a measured 24/7 loop. |
| GEEKOM Mini Air12 Lite; CNX Software review, November 17, 2024 source | 5.8–6.2 W idle; 10.9–15 W during YouTube playback | Windows 11 Pro; YouTube in Chrome at 8K60; Wi-Fi 6, USB keyboard and mouse, and a drawing tablet connected over HDMI. This is not a direct loop-stream measurement. |
| Beelink Mini S12 Pro N100; Notebookcheck review source | 8.8 W average idle; heavier-use consumption was substantially above idle | Review measurement; exact publication day was not confirmed. |
| Minisforum UN100L N100; Notebookcheck review source | 4.8 W average idle | Different model, configuration, conditions, and methodology; not a controlled comparison with the other reviews. Exact publication day was not confirmed. |
The cited idle readings span 4.8 W to about 9.2 W, while the two cited YouTube playback tests report 10.9–15 W and 14.7–17.9 W. Model configuration, power supply, storage, memory, network, attached devices, operating system, and workload all affect wall draw. The processor name alone cannot establish the power use of a finished computer.
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- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
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Measure the actual loop for a better estimate
- Connect a plug-in wall electricity meter between the outlet and the mini PC’s power supply.
- Run the YouTube loop with the resolution, browser, operating system, network, and power settings you expect to use continuously.
- Leave the display and peripherals in their intended states. Include them in the measurement if they will remain powered as part of the setup.
- Record the average draw over a representative period rather than using a brief peak or an idle reading.
- Put that average in watts into the annual-use formula above, then multiply the result by your local price per kWh.
The cited CNX Software reviews also used wall power meters and measured complete tested systems, rather than processor power alone. Your own wall measurement is the more useful input for your own bill.
Compare N100 systems on equal terms
The available reviews are not a controlled head-to-head test, so their readings do not support ranking the models by efficiency. For a fair comparison, measure each candidate using the same loop, playback resolution, browser, display and peripherals, operating system, and power configuration. Compare average draw during playback; include idle draw as well if the computer will spend meaningful time inactive.
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Or let it run in the cloud
If your goal is a continuous YouTube loop rather than using a mini PC, StreamNeo keeps uploaded videos live from the cloud: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Your computer and home connection do not have to stay on. Each slot streams the uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, with no re-encode, and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card, one free day per account. Monthly billing is $9.99 per month. StreamNeo streams to YouTube and plays uploaded videos; it does not go live from a camera. See StreamNeo for details, or start your free day.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
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