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A Nintendo Wii typically uses about 15–20 watts while playing. Standby consumption depends on its settings: measurements put WiiConnect24 standby at roughly 6–8 W, while an off state with WiiConnect24 disabled can draw close to zero to a couple of watts. These are reported measurements, not guaranteed figures for every Wii.
Wii power use by operating state
| State | Reported power use | Measurement context |
|---|---|---|
| Playing / active | About 15–20 W; NRDC reported under 20 W. Another dataset gives an approximate 16 W. | NRDC measurements and ENERGY STAR dataset, 2008–2009; LBNL on-state readings ranged about 7.5–21 W in its 2013 analysis. These results reflect tested units and conditions, not a guaranteed specification. NRDC; LBNL |
| Idle | About 11 W in one reported dataset. | Approximate NRDC / ENERGY STAR measurement from 2008; not a universal value. NRDC |
| Standby, WiiConnect24 disabled | About 2 W in one reported dataset; some off-state measurements were near 0 W. | Approximate NRDC / ENERGY STAR data from 2008 and LBNL off-state cluster measurements from 2013. Results vary by unit and configuration. NRDC; LBNL |
| Standby, WiiConnect24 enabled | Roughly 6–8 W; one 2008 dataset reported about 9 W. | LBNL found a 6–7.5 W measurement cluster and 7–8 W in spot testing in 2013, while noting possible manufacturing-run variation. The 9 W figure is an approximate NRDC / ENERGY STAR measurement from 2008. LBNL; NRDC |
Why readings differ
“Off” does not necessarily mean the same thing as standby. WiiConnect24 can keep the console in a higher-power standby state, so the setting matters when comparing readings. Measurement method and the individual console also affect the result: LBNL reported variation in Wii standby draw and noted that manufacturing run may matter.
The figures above come from measurements published in 2008, 2009 and 2013. Nintendo’s consulted manuals identify multiple Wii models, including RVL-001, RVL-101 and Wii mini RVL-201, but the cited sources do not establish a current official Nintendo wattage table for each model and state. Do not treat an adapter’s rated output as the console’s measured power use at the wall.
How to measure your own Wii
- Plug a wall-outlet electricity meter between the outlet and the Wii’s power adapter.
- Record the meter reading separately while playing, while idle in the menu, and in the standby state you want to check.
- If watts fluctuate, measure energy over a representative interval and divide by elapsed time to estimate average power. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends averaging over a measurement period when consumption changes. U.S. Department of Energy measurement guidance
For power-adapter safety, Nintendo advises using the official Wii adapter intended for your region rather than a third-party or overseas adapter. Nintendo Wii AC adapter guidance
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Built-in Wi-Fi Access For Easy Connection To Internet
- Features A Processing Chip From IBM And Graphics Chip From ATI
- Replacement console only no cables or accessories included
- Plays two disc formats in a single, self-loading media bay
Rank #4
- Includes: Wii console (white), console stand, 2 genuine Wii remotes with silicone sleeve and safety strap, 2 nunchuks, AV cables, AC adapter, sensor bar, HDMI adatper for modern TVs. Choose your option for 1 or 2 sets of controllers.
- Wii Play Game: 9 Classic Mini-Games Enjoy fan favorites like Tanks!, Table Tennis, and Fishing.
- Fully cleaned, inspected and tested for proper operation. Ships with all necessary cables and accessories — just plug in and play.
- Note on Online Features – Support has been discontinued for online play, WiiConnect24, and other internet-based services. All included games function fully offline and do not require internet connectivity.
Rank #3
- Bundle Includes: Wii Console, Wii Remote, Nunchuk, Wii Remote Jacket, Sensor Bar, Wii AC Adaptor, Wii AV Cable
Rank #2
- Bundle Includes: Wii Console, 2 Wii Remotes, 2 Nunchuks, 2 Wii Remote Jackets, Sensor Bar, Wii AC Adaptor, Wii AV Cable And Controller Charging Dock
- Two Included Rechargable Batteries For Your Controller
- Plays two disc formats in a single, self-loading media bay
- Built-in Wi-Fi Access For Easy Connection To Internet
- Thorough cleaning, carefully tested and guaranteed. Comes with a 90-day Amazon Certified Refurbished guarantee
#1 Best Overall
- Controllers are original OEM (not 3rd party)
- Tested and works well. Nice condition
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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