More people are starting to mine cryptocurrency. Both new and experienced users do it. It is a way to make money and learn about cryptocurrencies. But what is the best crypto for mining?
In this article, you will discover which cryptocurrencies are most suitable for mining and how to choose the best one to boost your earnings.
Best Cryptocurrencies for Mining
Below is a table of important cryptocurrencies, their block rewards, mining algorithms, and hardware requirements:
| Cryptocurrency | Block Reward | Mining Algorithm | Hardware Requirements |
| Bitcoin (BTC) | 6.25 BTC | SHA-256 | ASIC devices |
| Monero (XMR) | 0.6 XMR | RandomX | Powerful CPUs (ASIC-resistant) |
| Litecoin (LTC) | 12.5 LTC | Scrypt | ASIC miners |
| Zcash (ZEC) | 3.125 ZEC | Equihash | GPUs or ASIC devices |
| Dogecoin (DOGE) | 10,000 DOGE | Scrypt | ASIC miners |
| Dash (DASH) | 2.68 DASH | X11 | ASIC devices |
| Ethereum Classic (ETC) | 3.2 ETC | Etchash | GPUs |
| Grin (GRIN) | 60 GRIN | Cuckoo Cycle | GPUs |
| Ravencoin (RVN) | 5,000 RVN | KAWPOW | GPUs |
| Vertcoin (VTC) | 25 VTC | Lyra2REv3 | GPUs |
Note: Block rewards and other parameters can change due to mining difficulty adjustments, network updates, or protocol changes. Check official sources or specialized forums for the latest information on cryptocurrency mining.
Bitcoin (BTC)
Mining Rewards Per Block: 3.125 BTC
Difficulty: Very hard
Bitcoin was created in 2008 by an individual named Satoshi Nakamoto to develop a decentralized digital currency that allows transactions without intermediaries.
The first Bitcoin block was mined in 2009, launching the Bitcoin network, which is now the leading cryptocurrency. Nakamoto’s identity is still a mystery, but his invention has motivated the development of many other cryptocurrencies and blockchain systems.
Bitcoin is the first and most widely recognized cryptocurrency, using the SHA-256 mining algorithm. Due to the highly competitive and challenging nature of mining Bitcoin today, specialized machines called ASICs, such as the Antminer S19 Pro, are used.
These machines are powerful and efficient, making Bitcoin less accessible for casual miners, but it is still considered by many to be the best crypto to mine for those with the right resources.
Miners typically rely on software like CGMiner or BFGMiner to manage the mining process, as they are compatible with the SHA-256 algorithm.
Monero (XMR)
Mining Rewards Per Block: 0.6 XMR
Difficulty: Easy
Created in 2014 as a version of Bytecoin, Monero aims to provide improved privacy and anonymity. The project is open-source, with developers who choose to remain anonymous. Riccardo Spagni, also known as “FluffyPony,” was a key contributor and lead maintainer until 2019.
Monero uses the RandomX algorithm, which is designed to resist ASIC machines. This makes it best mined using powerful CPUs like the AMD Ryzen 9 series. Because of its accessibility and privacy features, Monero is often listed among the best cryptocurrencies to mine, especially for individuals using standard hardware.
Popular software for mining Monero includes XMRig and SRBMiner. These programs are designed for the RandomX algorithm and provide different settings for miners.
Litecoin (LTC)
Mining Rewards Per Block: 6.25 LTC
Difficulty: Hard
Litecoin was created by Charlie Lee in 2011, a former Google engineer. His goal was to develop a faster, more efficient digital currency that would be accessible to a broader audience.
Also, Litecoin is known for faster block generation times than Bitcoin, leading to quicker transaction confirmations. This speed has helped it become one of the most widely used cryptocurrencies worldwide.
Litecoin uses the Scrypt algorithm. Initially, it could be mined using GPUs, but today, it is more profitable to mine with ASIC devices such as the Antminer L3++.
Because of its consistent block rewards and active market presence, Litecoin is often mentioned in discussions about the most profitable crypto mining, especially for miners with access to ASIC hardware. Mining software like EasyMiner and MultiMiner is commonly used, as both support the Scrypt algorithm and offer user-friendly interfaces.
Zcash (ZEC)
Mining Rewards Per Block: 1.5625 ZEC
Difficulty: Easy
Zcash was launched in 2016 by Zooko Wilcox-O’Hearn and his team. It offers complete transaction anonymity through the use of “zk-SNARKs” technology. This technology keeps the identities of both the sender and receiver secret. It also hides the transaction amount.
As a privacy-focused cryptocurrency, Zcash uses the Equihash algorithm. While it was initially resistant to ASIC machines, it is now more efficiently mined with ASICs like the Antminer Z15. It can also be mined with powerful GPUs such as the NVIDIA RTX 3080.
Because of its privacy features and relatively low mining difficulty, Zcash is often considered among the most profitable crypto to mine, especially for those seeking a balance between accessibility and performance. Miners often use software like EWBF Miner or NiceHash Miner, which work well with the Equihash algorithm.
Dogecoin (DOGE)
Mining Rewards Per Block: 10,000 DOGE
Difficulty: Medium
Dogecoin was created as a joke in 2013 but quickly became popular and built a large following. Billy Markus and Jackson Palmer created it with the goal of creating a cryptocurrency that would be easy and accessible for everyone.
Dogecoin became popular fast. Its friendly, funny image came from the “Doge” meme. Over time, it changed. Now, people use it as a way to pay and invest.
People usually mine Dogecoin with ASIC devices like the Antminer L3++, which is also used for Litecoin mining. Mining software, such as CGMiner or EasyMiner, is popular. They work well with the Scrypt algorithm and help manage mining efficiently. For beginners without expensive hardware, many turn to mobile mining tools, and some of the best free crypto mining apps for Android offer simple ways to get started and explore how mining works.
Due to its low barrier to entry and strong community support, Dogecoin is often included in conversations about the most profitable cryptocurrency mining, especially for those getting started with ASIC devices.
Dash (DASH)
Mining Rewards Per Block: 2.3097 DASH
Difficulty: Easy/Medium
Dash was created in 2014 by Evan Duffield as an alternative to Bitcoin, focusing on faster and more private transactions. It introduced features like InstantSend for quick transactions and PrivateSend for greater anonymity.
Dash wants to offer lower transaction costs and quicker confirmation times. This makes it a favorite for users who need fast and private financial transactions.
Dash uses the X11 algorithm, and mining is most effective with ASIC devices like the Antminer D3. Popular mining software includes Awesome Miner and SimpleMining.
They support the X11 algorithm and provide easy control features for miners. Thanks to its speed, privacy features, and ASIC compatibility, many users mention Dash as one of the best options for cryptocurrency mining, especially when they prioritize privacy and efficiency.
Ethereum Classic (ETC)
Mining Rewards Per Block: 2.048 ETC
Difficulty: Easy/Medium
One profitable cryptocurrency to mine is Ethereum Classic, the original version of the Ethereum blockchain, created after a hard fork in 2016 following the DAO hack. While Ethereum moved to a Proof of Stake system, Ethereum Classic continued to operate under the original Proof of Work protocol.
It uses the Etchash algorithm, making it best mined with powerful GPUs such as the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti or AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT.
Miners often choose software like PhoenixMiner or GMiner, as they are efficient and support the Etchash algorithm. Thanks to its ongoing support for GPU mining and network stability, Ethereum Classic remains a strong choice for miners seeking consistent performance.
Grin (GRIN)
Mining rewards and difficulty constantly change, so check the Grin website or use reliable crypto tracking tools.
Grin is a privacy-centric cryptocurrency built on the Cuckoo Cycle algorithm. Mining Grin is most effective with powerful GPUs like the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Ti.
GrinGoldMiner and Bminer optimize the Cuckoo Cycle algorithm and ensure efficient mining. For those seeking strong privacy features along with decent crypto mining profitability, Grin remains an appealing choice.
Grin was created in 2019 as a fork of Monero, aiming to provide complete privacy protection and anonymity. A group of creators developed it to provide a cryptocurrency that stands alone from other blockchains. They aimed to meet the latest privacy standards.
Grin uses the special “Mimblewimble” protocol. This makes transactions smaller and keeps them private.
Ravencoin (RVN)
Mining Rewards Per Block: 2,500 RVN
Difficulty: Easy
A team led by Bruce Fenton, the first director of the Bitcoin Foundation, founded Ravencoin in 2018 as a blockchain platform for transferring assets like securities, real estate, and other valuable items.
It uses the KAWPOW algorithm, designed to resist ASIC machines. As a result, Ravencoin is best mined with strong GPUs like the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070. Popular mining software includes KawPowMiner and NBMiner, both of which efficiently support the KAWPOW algorithm.
Ravencoin often ranks among the top choices for best crypto mining because it resists ASICs, supports GPUs, and has an active community, making it ideal for those seeking accessible and decentralized options.
Vertcoin (VTC)
Current Mining Rewards: 12.5 VTC/block
Difficulty: Easy
Vertcoin was created in 2014 as an open-source project to ensure mining remains accessible to everyone, not just large mining farms. Its developers focused on keeping the network open and resistant to ASIC machines. The project is community-driven, with funding coming from voluntary donations.
Vertcoin uses the Lyra2REv3 algorithm, which prevents ASIC machines from being used. Mining Vertcoin is most effective with strong GPUs, like the AMD Radeon RX 570. Miners often use software like Vertcoin One-Click Miner or CCMiner, optimized for the Lyra2REv3 algorithm, to simplify the mining process.
Factors Determining Mining Profitability
Electricity Costs
Mining machines consume a lot of electricity, so the cost of electricity can greatly affect profitability. The lower the electricity costs, the higher the profit from mining.
Cryptocurrency Price
The higher the cryptocurrency price you are mining, the greater your rewards. Due to the high volatility of crypto prices, earnings can fluctuate considerably.
Mining Difficulty
The harder it is to mine a cryptocurrency, the less you can expect to earn. When mining is complex, more people compete, and stronger computers are needed to solve tasks.
Block Reward
This is the amount of cryptocurrency you receive for mining a new block. The reward can change over time. For example, Bitcoin rewards decrease by half every four years (halving).
Mining Pool Fees (if participating)
Mining pools take a fee for letting you join and use their service. The cost is usually between 1% and 3% of your earnings. Mining pools help you get rewards more often, but high fees can lower your total profit.
Protocol Changes
Major cryptocurrency system updates can affect mining profitability. For example, Ethereum’s switch to Proof of Stake (PoS) eliminated mining.
Market Fluctuations
Cryptocurrency prices go up and down, which changes how much you earn. You might make less money or even lose profit if prices drop fast. But if prices rise, you can earn more from mining. Watching the market helps you know the best time to sell your coins.
Need for Regular Equipment Upgrades
Mining hardware is constantly improving, making older models less effective. As a result, miners need to upgrade their equipment regularly to stay efficient and maintain profitability.
Risk Management
To prevent losses, it is crucial to regularly monitor the market and evaluate risks. Setting a budget and having a backup plan can also help reduce financial risks.
Best Cryptocurrency to Mine Bottom Line
Cryptocurrency mining can be easy or hard depending on the coin, algorithm, and equipment needed. Coins like Dogecoin (DOGE), Litecoin (LTC), and Ravencoin (RVN) are easier to mine as they use algorithms that don’t require special machines, allowing the use of regular GPUs or CPUs. This makes them good choices for beginners and smaller miners.
On the other hand, coins like Bitcoin (BTC) and Zcash (ZEC) are more complicated to mine. They need expensive machines called ASICs because their algorithms are more complex, and there is more competition. Mining these coins requires a lot of money and cheap electricity. However, they are more stable, have higher value, and are attractive to big investors and mining farms.
FAQs About the Best Cryptocurrency to Mine
Which crypto is most profitable to mine?
Bitcoin (BTC) is a popular choice for mining because of its high market value. However, other cryptocurrencies like Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), and Monero (XMR) can also be profitable.
What is the easiest cryptocurrency to mine?
Mining Monero is a great option for beginners who want to start with crypto mining. Monero uses the RandomX algorithm, so it’s great for mining with regular CPUs. In contrast, Bitcoin needs specialized hardware called ASICs.
Can my PC mine crypto?
You can mine crypto at home using a CPU with coins like Monero and Zcash. However, it’s a slow process. Also, the cost of electricity might exceed the value of the coins you mine. For those who want to get more serious, crypto GPU mining is a realistic path.
Which crypto is most reliable?
Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum Classic (ETC) are seen as the most reliable cryptocurrencies. Their stability and strong market recognition support this view. Both need costly ASIC devices for mining. They are good long-term investments because of their higher value and strong networks.
What is the most popular crypto to mine?
Bitcoin (BTC) is the most popular cryptocurrency, known for its stability, high value, and long-term growth potential. Although it requires specialized hardware (ASICs) due to higher mining difficulty, it remains a top choice for miners and investors.
Which crypto is best to mine?
For beginners, it’s easier to mine coins like Dogecoin (DOGE) and Ravencoin (RVN) because they don’t require expensive equipment. In contrast, mining Bitcoin (BTC) necessitates specialized and costly hardware.
