How we test power consumption

Our laptop and desktop computer power consumption tests consist of running the system in four modes: Off, Sleep, Idle, and Load. To collect the data, we use a Chroma 66202 power meter.

While our tests closely follow Energy Star standards for testing methodology, we have added a Load test to better reflect real-world usage.

Additionally, we break systems down into two categories for testing. Performance systems have discrete graphics cards, and use a gaming test for the Load test, while systems with integrated graphics, which we call Mainstream, use a general multitasking test.

Powered-off test:

1. The "test system" is powered off (shut down) for at least 5 minutes, but remains plugged into a wall outlet.

Idle test:

1. Boot the system into the operating system.
2. Confirm that the system has an active Internet connection.
3. Leave all active launch programs turned on.

Sleep test:

1. Put the system into standby mode, by way of the Windows Start, Shut Down buttons.
2. Let the system sit in standby mode for 5 minutes.

Mainstream load test (for systems with integrated graphics chips):

1. Reboot the system and make sure it is powered on, booted up, and logged into the operating system for at least 5 minutes.
2. The only applications that launch should be those that launch automatically during system start-up.
3. Once it boots into the OS, confirm that the system has an active Internet connection.
4. Launch the multimedia multitasking test.

Performance load test (for systems with discrete graphics chips):

Reporting results

The individual tests are weighted as follows, and multiplied by the national average cost of a kilowatt per hour (kWh) of electricity, currently $0.1135, to provide the average power consumption and an estimated annual energy cost.