Devices with clocks, remotes, chargers, and network standby draw 1 to 10W around the clock. Ten such devices cost $15 to $90 a year.

Cable boxes, game consoles, older TVs, and desktop speakers top the list. Measure with a plug meter for exact watts.

A smart plug cuts standby to zero on schedule but draws about 1W itself. It pays back only on loads above roughly 3W standby.

Both work. Switched strips beat unplugging for entertainment centers with many small loads.