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To estimate the electricity cost of running an HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini continuously for a YouTube stream, measure the setup’s average power draw at the wall while it is streaming, then multiply by your electricity rate. The model name alone does not reveal the cost: HP’s published figures cover states such as idle, sleep and off, not YouTube playback.
Calculate your 24/7 electricity cost
For continuous operation throughout a 365-day year, use:
- Annual energy use in kWh = average watts × 8.76
- Annual cost = annual kWh × your electricity price per kWh
The 8.76 factor converts watts running for 24 hours a day and 365 days a year into kilowatt-hours. For example, at an illustrative 10 W average and $0.15 per kWh, the PC would use 87.6 kWh in a year and cost $13.14. This is arithmetic based on those assumptions, not a measured YouTube-streaming result or a statement of your local tariff.
What the published ProDesk 400 G4 figures do—and do not—show
HP’s July 24, 2018 QuickSpecs list Desktop Mini energy results under a standardized ENERGY STAR method. Across the voltage conditions shown, the figures are about 5.65–5.83 W in short idle, 5.39–5.47 W in long idle, 0.63–0.69 W in sleep and 0.53–0.59 W when off. These are distinct operating states; none establishes the power draw during YouTube playback. HP also notes that configurations and availability vary by country. Read HP’s QuickSpecs.
#1 Best Overall
- Compact Powerhouse: The HP ProDesk 400 G4 Tiny is a space-saving HP mini desktop PC, powered by an Intel Core i5-8500T, delivering up to 3.5GHz with 6 cores for efficient multitasking
- Enhanced Performance: With 8 GB DDR4 RAM and a 256 GB SSD, this refurbished mini desktop computer offers fast data access, ensuring smooth performance in demanding applications
- Versatile Connectivity: Equipped with multiple ports, including 4 USB 2.0; 2 USB 3.1; and 2 DisplayPort 1.2; this renewed HP mini PC ensures seamless integration with peripherals and displays
- Enterprise-Grade Windows 11 Pro Security: Comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro, offering advanced security features, built-in management tools, and compatibility with business software right out of the box
- Complete Package: This refurbished HP desktop computer comes with a wired keyboard and mouse, and all necessary power adapters, ready to enhance your workspace
ServeTheHome reported measuring 10–11 W at idle on its tested quad-core ProDesk 400 G4 Mini in 2020. That result describes one system, not every configuration, and it was not a continuous-stream measurement. Differences between that result and HP’s standardized figures are a reminder that the components and test setup matter. Read the ServeTheHome review.
Check the exact variant and components before applying any reference figure. HP’s support page provides setup and user guides for the ProDesk 400 G4 Desktop Mini PC. Find the HP setup and user guides.
Rank #2
- This HP Prodesk 600 G4 Mini PC Desktop is 8GB high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs all at once; 256GB PCIe NVMe M.2 Solid State Drive allows to fast bootup and data transfer.
- This HP Prodesk 600 G4 Mini PC Desktop is Intel Core i5-8500T Processor, Base Frequency 2.1GHz up to 3.5GHz Processor, so it delivers exceptional performance, ensuring fast and reliable computing for all your needs.
- This HP Prodesk 600 G4 Mini PC Desktop includes USB Wired Keyboard & Mouse, USB WiFi adapter, USB Bluetooth adapter. Supporting for 4K (3840x2160) Dual display, you can easily connect two monitors simultaneously, and you can expand working Windows, mirror content, or expand a single window across multiple monitors.
- Tech Specs: This HP Prodesk 600 G4 Mini PC Desktop will have Front: USB 3.1 Gen 1 port(1), USB 3.1 Gen 2 port(2); Rear: DP 1.2 port(2), USB 3.1 Gen 1 port(1), USB 3.1 Gen 2 port(2), Serial, RJ-45(1).
- Windows 11 Pro Operating System, this HP Prodesk 600 G4 Mini PC Desktop ensures enterprise-grade security for your data. Enjoy the flexibility of logging in from any device, anywhere, and boost productivity with powerful management tools.
Measure the power draw of your actual stream
- Connect a plug-in electricity usage meter. Place it between the wall outlet and the PC. If you want the cost of the whole viewing or streaming setup, include the display and any peripherals in the measurement too.
- Run your usual streaming setup. Use the resolution, playback and other settings you normally keep active. An idle reading is not a substitute for a representative stream reading.
- Record a representative average. Let the stream run long enough for the meter to capture typical operation. If it reports kWh over a known interval, use that interval’s energy and duration to determine the average or annualize the interval only if the setup’s pattern is genuinely continuous and representative.
- Apply your electricity rate. Use the applicable price per kWh from your bill. Multiply annual kWh by that rate to estimate the annual electricity cost.
When reporting or comparing estimates, state whether the measurement covers the PC alone or also a display and peripherals. Keep the operating condition consistent: idle, active playback and sleep are not interchangeable.
Separate PC electricity from the cost of keeping a stream online
This calculation covers electricity for the measured equipment only. If your goal is to keep a prerecorded video live on YouTube around the clock, StreamNeo is a cloud option: it loops uploaded videos from its service, so your home computer does not have to stay on. StreamNeo is for YouTube streams and does not stream from a camera. Learn more at StreamNeo.
Rank #3
- Powerful Performance: Intel Core i5 Hexa Core processor for reliable multitasking and smooth computing.
- Fast & Efficient: 16GB DDR4 RAM and 250GB SSD for quick startup and performance.
- Windows 11 Pro: Modern operating system with professional-grade tools and enhanced security.
- Compact Design: Space-saving mini chassis fits neatly on or under your desk.
- Renewed Quality: Professionally tested and renewed to perform like new; may show minor cosmetic wear.
Or let it run in the cloud
Upload your recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. StreamNeo runs the loop in the cloud, with automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. Each slot supports the quality of your upload up to 4K 60fps for one flat slot price, and the first day is free with no card required (one free day per account). The monthly option is $9.99 per month. For a continuously running prerecorded YouTube stream without leaving a computer on at home, start with StreamNeo’s free first day.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Intel Core i5-8500T Processor (Hexa-Core, 2.1GHz, 9MB Cache)
- 16GB DDR4 System Memory
- 512GB Solid State Drive (SSD)
- Integrated Intel HD Graphics 630
- No Optical Drive
Rank #4
- The HP ProDesk 400 G5 Mini Desktop is equipped with an Intel Core i5-9500T processor, 8GB memory, and a fast 256GB SSD, delivering robust performance for daily business applications and smooth multitasking in a compact form factor
- With its mini desktop footprint, this PC fits virtually anywhere—on desks, mounted behind monitors, or tucked into tight workspaces—making it the ideal solution for offices, reception areas, and environments where space is at a premium
- Features front and rear ports including USB 3.1 Gen 1/Gen 2, USB 2.0, and dual DisplayPort 1.2. An optional configurable I/O port allows you to add VGA, serial, HDMI, or USB-C with 100W Power Delivery for legacy support or triple-display setups
- Pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro and equipped with HP Sure Click hardware-enforced malware protection, HP BIOSphere Gen5 firmware automation, and HP Client Security Manager, this desktop provides robust security for business environments
- Grow your PC with your business using M.2 and SATA storage options. The HP Manageability Integration Kit speeds up image creation and hardware management through Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager, ensuring long-term value and easy IT administration
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.
