Which ASIC Miner Should You Buy? A Review of Top Models for Cryptocurrency Mining

What Are ASIC Miners and How Do They Work?

Mining is the process of generating cryptocurrency by solving complex computational problems in a blockchain network. To mine efficiently, miners need significant computing power, which can be achieved either with standard computer GPUs (GPU mining) or with specialized hardware.

ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit) is an integrated circuit engineered specifically for cryptocurrency mining. Unlike general-purpose GPUs, ASIC miners are optimized for a single hashing algorithm, making them much more efficient. An ASIC miner is professional-grade equipment designed for industrial-scale cryptocurrency mining, delivering maximum performance and energy efficiency.

The key advantage of ASIC miners is their specialization. While a GPU can handle multiple applications (gaming, rendering, mining), an ASIC is built exclusively for one algorithm. This results in far higher hash rates and lower energy consumption.

However, ASIC miners have unique operational considerations. They produce significant noise (typically 75–80 dB) and generate considerable heat. As such, they are not recommended for residential spaces—the best environment is a purpose-built mining farm with proper ventilation and cooling.

Top ASIC Miners for Bitcoin (SHA-256 Algorithm)

Bitcoin mining remains the most popular segment of the crypto mining industry. There is a wide array of ASIC hardware designed for the SHA-256 algorithm. Market leaders include Bitmain and MicroBT, whose flagship models have set new performance and efficiency standards.

Bitmain Antminer S21 Pro

Bitmain Antminer S21 Pro is among the most powerful SHA-256 miners currently available. Launched in the spring of last year, it offers impressive specs that significantly outperform the previous generation.

Technical Specifications:

• Hashrate: approximately 234 TH/s (terahash per second)
• Power consumption: around 3,510 W
• Energy efficiency: about 15 J/TH (joules per terahash)
• Dimensions: 400×195×290 mm
• Weight: 18–20 kg
• Cooling system: air, dual fans
• Noise level: about 75 dB
• Power requirements: 220–277 V

Advantages:

• High performance, maximizing mining profitability
• Excellent energy efficiency compared to competitors
• Optimal for large-scale mining farms with low electricity costs
• Bitmain’s reliability and long-standing reputation

Disadvantages:

• High purchase cost (latest data: $4,000–$5,000)
• Significant power infrastructure requirements
• High heat output demands robust cooling solutions

Where to buy: Official Bitmain website, authorized resellers (CryptoMinerBros, Vipera, Apexto)

Bitmain Antminer T21

Bitmain Antminer T21 is a more affordable model from the same generation as the S21 Pro, targeting miners seeking the best price-to-performance ratio.

Technical Specifications:

• Hashrate: approximately 190 TH/s
• Power consumption: around 3,610 W
• Energy efficiency: about 19 J/TH
• Dimensions: same as S21
• Weight: approximately 16 kg
• Cooling system: air
• Noise level: about 75 dB
• Power requirements: 380–415 V (three-phase power)

Advantages:

• More affordable than flagship models
• Reliable and stable operation
• Strong price/performance balance
• Ideal for mid-sized mining farms

Disadvantages:

• Lower energy efficiency than the S21 Pro
• Requires three-phase power, which may not be available in all locations

Price: latest data $2,500–$3,000

Where to buy: Through Bitmain and official distributors

MicroBT WhatsMiner M60S

MicroBT WhatsMiner M60S is a competitive offering from the second-largest ASIC manufacturer, MicroBT, renowned for build quality and operational reliability.

Technical Specifications:

• Hashrate: approximately 186 TH/s (up to 194 TH/s in overclock mode)
• Power consumption: 3,440–3,600 W depending on the mode
• Energy efficiency: about 18–19 J/TH
• Dimensions: 430×155×226 mm
• Weight: approximately 13.5 kg
• Cooling system: air
• Noise level: about 75 dB

Advantages:

• Stable operation
• High build quality and reliability
• More compact design than competitors
• Supports overclocking for increased hashrate

Disadvantages:

• Slightly less energy efficient than Bitmain models
• Less widespread market availability

Price: latest data $3,000–$4,000

Where to buy: Official MicroBT resellers, ASICmarketplace

Canaan AvalonMiner A1466

Canaan AvalonMiner A1466 is the third major brand in the ASIC miner market. While Canaan is less well-known than Bitmain or MicroBT, it provides reliable equipment at a competitive price point.

Technical Specifications:

• Hashrate: approximately 150 TH/s
• Power consumption: around 3,230 W
• Energy efficiency: about 21.5 J/TH
• Dimensions: 271×192×292 mm
• Weight: approximately 13 kg
• Cooling system: air
• Noise level: up to 80 dB

Advantages:

• Stable operation
• Attractive price/performance ratio
• Widespread market availability
• Accessible for mining beginners

Disadvantages:

• Lower energy efficiency than competitors
• High noise output
• Lower hashrate compared to flagship models

Price: latest data $2,000–$2,500

Where to buy: Official Canaan store, authorized dealers

ASIC Miners for Scrypt Algorithm Cryptocurrencies

The Scrypt algorithm is used to mine popular cryptocurrencies like Litecoin (LTC) and Dogecoin (DOGE). Bitmain’s Antminer L series are the most widely used devices for Scrypt mining.

Bitmain Antminer L9

Bitmain Antminer L9 is a revolutionary model that redefines the standard for Scrypt mining. Recently launched, it delivers unprecedented performance in its class.

Technical Specifications:

• Hashrate: 17 GH/s (17,000 MH/s)
• Power consumption: around 3,450 W
• Energy efficiency: about 0.20 J/MH
• Cooling system: air, four fans (two intake, two exhaust)
• Noise level: 75–80 dB

Advantages:

• Record-breaking Scrypt mining performance
• Exceptional energy efficiency (nearly double that of the previous generation)
• Supports merged mining of LTC and DOGE
• Fast ROI under suitable conditions

Disadvantages:

• High upfront cost
• Demanding infrastructure (robust electrical and cooling systems required)
• Limited availability due to high demand

Price: latest data $7,000–$10,000

Where to buy: Official Bitmain website, resellers (OneMiners, BT-Miners)

Notably, the L9 achieves energy efficiency of about 0.20 J/MH—almost twice as efficient as the prior L7 model, making it highly attractive for miners with cheap electricity access.

Bitmain Antminer L7

Bitmain Antminer L7 is the L9’s predecessor and remains a viable choice thanks to its reduced price and broad availability in the secondary market.

Technical Specifications:

• Hashrate: approximately 9.5 GH/s
• Power consumption: around 3,425 W
• Energy efficiency: about 0.36 J/MH
• Cooling system: air
• Noise level: 75–80 dB

Advantages:

• Reliable, proven design
• Wide market availability
• Lower price versus new models
• Easy access to parts and repairs

Disadvantages:

• Almost half as powerful as the L9
• Lower energy efficiency
• Longer payback period

Price: latest data $3,000–$4,000 (new), approximately $2,000 (used)

Where to buy: Secondary market, major distributors

ASIC Miners for Kaspa

The Kaspa cryptocurrency (kHeavyHash algorithm) has surged in popularity, driving the development of dedicated ASIC miners. Kaspa stands out for its innovative BlockDAG architecture and rapid transaction speeds.

Bitmain Antminer KS5 Pro

Bitmain Antminer KS5 Pro is the leading ASIC miner for Kaspa, offering the highest performance available.

Technical Specifications:

• Hashrate: 21 TH/s (kHeavyHash algorithm)
• Power consumption: around 3,150 W
• Energy efficiency: about 150 J/TH
• Dimensions: 430×195×290 mm
• Weight: approximately 16 kg
• Cooling system: air, four fans
• Noise level: about 75 dB

Advantages:

• Top performance among Kaspa ASICs
• High energy efficiency
• Bitmain build quality
• Strong profitability potential

Disadvantages:

• Very high price
• Limited use case (Kaspa only)
• Potential profitability risk if KAS price drops

Price: latest data $15,000–$20,000

Where to buy: Official Bitmain website, leading ASIC vendors

Investing in the KS5 Pro amounts to a long-term bet on Kaspa’s growth. The high equipment cost demands careful ROI analysis.

IceRiver KS3

IceRiver KS3 was the first mass-market ASIC miner for Kaspa, preceding Bitmain’s entry.

Technical Specifications:

• Hashrate: approximately 8 TH/s
• Power consumption: around 3,200 W
• Energy efficiency: about 400 J/TH
• Cooling system: air
• Noise level: about 75 dB

Advantages:

• First mass-market Kaspa miner
• Lower price than the KS5 Pro

Disadvantages:

• Outdated energy efficiency
• Limited service and support
• Significantly surpassed by newer models

Where to buy: Secondary market

ASIC Miners for Ethereum Classic

After Ethereum’s move to Proof-of-Stake (PoS), Ethereum Classic (ETC) became the primary Ethash mining coin. While Ethash mining has become less profitable, it still remains relevant for certain miners.

Jasminer X16-Q

Jasminer X16-Q is one of the most efficient Ethash ASICs available, offering unique features.

Technical Specifications:

• Hashrate: approximately 1.84 GH/s (1,845 MH/s)
• Power consumption: just 630 W
• Energy efficiency: about 0.34 J/MH
• Cooling system: passive with acoustic insulation
• Noise level: around 40 dB (extremely quiet)

Advantages:

• Very quiet operation, suitable for home or office
• High energy efficiency
• Compact design
• Low heat output

Disadvantages:

• High price
• Ethash is less profitable post-Ethereum merge
• Limited availability

Price: latest data $5,000–$6,000

Where to buy: Official Jasminer distributors, ASIC equipment shops

The X16-Q’s ultra-low noise level (about 40 dB) is unique among ASIC miners, made possible by passive cooling and advanced soundproofing.

Bitmain Antminer E9 Pro

Bitmain Antminer E9 Pro is a higher-performance, but much louder, solution for Ethash mining.

Technical Specifications:

• Hashrate: approximately 3.68 GH/s
• Power consumption: around 2,200 W
• Energy efficiency: about 0.60 J/MH
• Cooling system: air
• Noise level: about 75 dB

Advantages:

• High performance
• Bitmain’s reliability
• Affordable price

Disadvantages:

• Loud operation
• Less energy efficient than Jasminer

Price: latest data approximately $1,500

Where to buy: Official Bitmain site, resellers

ASIC Miners for Other Algorithms

Mining Dash (X11 Algorithm)

The X11 algorithm, used by Dash, has long been deployed in ASIC miners. The most powerful model is the Bitmain Antminer D7, released several years ago.

Antminer D7 Specifications:

• Hashrate: approximately 1.286 TH/s
• Power consumption: around 3,148 W
• Application: Mining Dash and other X11 coins

Though the D7 isn’t new, it’s still relevant for Dash miners. Note that X11 mining profitability can fluctuate significantly with the Dash price.

Mining Zcash (Equihash Algorithm)

For the Equihash algorithm used by Zcash, the best-known miner is the Antminer Z15.

Antminer Z15 Specifications:

• Hashrate: 420 kSol/s (420,000 Sol/s)
• Power consumption: around 1,510 W
• Application: Mining Zcash and other Equihash coins

The Z15 remains one of the best options for mining Zcash, offering an excellent balance of performance and energy consumption. Zcash is valued for its privacy and transaction anonymity.

Mining Handshake and Siacoin

Some ASIC miners are multi-algorithm, making them more versatile. For example, the Goldshell HS6 can handle both Handshake and Siacoin mining.

Goldshell HS6 Specifications:

• Handshake mode: approximately 4.3 TH/s at 3,250 W
• Siacoin mode: approximately 10.6 TH/s at 2,350 W
• Feature: Switches between algorithms

This flexibility lets miners adapt to different cryptocurrency profitability by switching algorithms as market conditions change.

How to Calculate ASIC Miner Payback (ROI)

Before buying an ASIC miner, it’s crucial to estimate your potential ROI. This helps prevent losses and supports informed decisions.

Step-by-Step Payback Calculation

Step 1: Calculate Electricity Costs

Monthly electricity cost formula:

Cost = (Wattage × 24 hours × 30 days) / 1000 × electricity rate

Example: 3,500 W miner at $0.10 per kWh:

(3500 × 24 × 30) / 1000 × 0.10 = $252 per month

Step 2: Estimate Potential Revenue

Use calculators to estimate mining revenue:

• NiceHash Calculator
• ASICMinerValue
• WhatToMine

Input your miner’s hashrate, power consumption, and electricity cost. The calculator estimates revenue based on current network conditions and crypto prices.

Step 3: Calculate Net Profit

Net profit = Mining revenue – Electricity costs

Step 4: Calculate Payback Period

Payback period (months) = Equipment price / Net monthly profit

Step 5: Adjust for Difficulty Growth

Network difficulty rises over time, reducing revenue. Add 10–15% to your payback estimate:

Realistic payback period = Base period × 1.10

Additional Considerations

1. Residual equipment value: ASIC miners retain some value on the secondary market. Factor in possible resale value.

2. Cryptocurrency price volatility: Coin prices can fluctuate significantly, affecting profitability.

3. Electricity rate changes: Future electricity prices may rise.

4. Cooling costs: In hot climates, extra cooling may be needed.

5. Maintenance and repairs: Allocate 5–10% of your equipment cost for possible repairs.

Comprehensive Example

Example: Bitmain Antminer S21 Pro

• Miner price: $4,500
• Hashrate: 234 TH/s
• Power consumption: 3,510 W
• Electricity rate: $0.08 per kWh
• Current income: $12 per day (per calculator)

Calculation:

1. Monthly electricity cost: (3,510 × 24 × 30) / 1000 × 0.08 = $202
2. Monthly income: $12 × 30 = $360
3. Net profit: $360 – $202 = $158
4. Base payback period: $4,500 / $158 = 28.5 months
5. With difficulty growth: 28.5 × 1.10 = 31 months

This example illustrates that even top-tier equipment requires a long payback period. Careful analysis is essential before investing.

How to Choose an ASIC Miner: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing an ASIC miner requires detailed consideration of many factors. Here’s a breakdown of each step.

Step 1: Analyze Electricity Costs

Electricity cost is the most critical profitability factor. Before investing, you must:

1. Determine your local electricity rate:

   • Residential rate (typically higher)
   • Industrial rate (lower, but may require business registration)
   • Night rate (where available)

2. Consider additional expenses:

   • Capacity charges
   • Taxes and fees
   • Cooling costs

3. Evaluate supply stability:

   • Power outage frequency
   • Voltage quality
   • Ability to install voltage stabilizers

Note: If your electricity rate exceeds $0.10 per kWh, most ASIC mining will be unprofitable.

Step 2: Choose Your Mining Coin

Your target coin determines your ASIC selection:

Bitcoin (SHA-256):

• Most liquid
• Highest competition
• Stable but moderate returns
• Good for long-term investors

Litecoin/Dogecoin (Scrypt):

• Merged mining capability
• Lower competition
• Greater income volatility
• Useful for diversification

Kaspa (kHeavyHash):

• New, promising project
• High growth potential
• Higher risk due to uncertainty
• For speculative investment

Ethereum Classic (Ethash):

• Lower profitability post-Ethereum merge
• Stable but modest returns
• Best if you have very cheap electricity

Step 3: Select Equipment

After choosing a coin, select your miner model:

Selection Criteria:

1. Energy efficiency (J/TH or J/MH): Lower is better, especially with high electricity rates.

2. Hashrate: Higher hashrate means more revenue, but also higher price and power draw.

3. Equipment price: Balance cost and specifications. Consider used options if appropriate.

4. Manufacturer reliability: Bitmain is the largest and most reliable; MicroBT is a quality alternative. Lesser-known brands carry higher risk.

5. Service availability: Check for spare parts, warranty repair options, and technical support.

Step 4: Set Up Your Infrastructure

Before mining, prepare your facility:

Requirements:

1. Electrical system: Sufficient capacity, quality wiring, circuit breakers, voltage stabilizers (recommended)

2. Ventilation and cooling: Intake/exhaust ventilation, air conditioning (in warm climates), temperature monitoring

3. Soundproofing: ASIC miners are very loud (75–80 dB); use sound insulation or remote placement

4. Security: Fire safety (smoke detectors, extinguishers), theft protection, access control

Connection and setup:

1. Network connection: Reliable internet, backup channel (recommended), static IP (optional)

2. Mining pool selection: Large pools (more stable, lower rewards), small pools (higher volatility, potentially higher rewards), pool fees (usually 1–3%)

3. Monitoring: Remote monitoring, alerts for issues, temperature and performance tracking

Step 5: Alternative Hosting Options

If running your own farm isn’t practical, consider hosting:

Miner hosting: Many companies offer hosting services:

Benefits:

• Cheap electricity (often $0.05–$0.07 per kWh)
• Professional maintenance
• Optimal cooling
• No noise at home

Drawbacks:

• Monthly service fees
• No physical access/control
• Provider-related risks
• Potential delays in issue resolution

Hosting selection tips:

• Company reputation
• Contract terms
• Service cost
• Contract length
• Insurance coverage for equipment

Where to Buy an ASIC Miner: Options Overview

Buying an ASIC miner is a major decision that requires caution. Here are the main channels and their specifics.

Option 1: Direct from Manufacturer

Pros:

• Authenticity guaranteed
• Official manufacturer warranty
• Bulk order options
• Direct technical support

Cons:

• Long wait times (often 2–4 months)
• Full prepayment required
• Potential shipping delays
• Refund difficulties

Major manufacturers:

• Bitmain (bitmain.com)
• MicroBT (microbt.com)
• Canaan (canaan.io)

Buying tips:

1. Verify official website (beware of phishing)
2. Use secure payment methods
3. Read shipping terms carefully
4. Factor in customs and delivery costs

Option 2: From Resellers

Pros:

• Faster delivery (often in stock)
• Buy single units
• Local support and service
• Sometimes demo units available

Cons:

• Higher price (10–30% markup)
• Risk of used or counterfeit devices
• Variable service quality

Major resellers:

• CryptoMinerBros
• Vipera
• Apexto
• ASICmarketplace
• BT-Miners

Buying tips:

1. Check seller reputation (reviews, forums)
2. Request proof of authenticity
3. Clarify warranty details
4. Compare prices across sellers

Option 3: Used Equipment

Buying used ASICs can be economical but requires caution.

Pros:

• Much lower price (30–60% discount)
• Find rare models
• Quick availability
• Room to negotiate

Cons:

• No/limited warranty
• Unknown condition
• Risk of malfunction
• Hidden defects possible

Where to find used miners:

1. Specialized marketplaces: Rigzone, MiningCave, ASICMinerMarket

2. General platforms: eBay (with caution), Facebook Marketplace, local classifieds

3. Communities: BitcoinTalk, Reddit (r/BitcoinMining), miner Telegram groups

Critical checks:

1. Serial number verification: Check with manufacturer, ensure it’s not stolen

2. Test before buying: Request video, verify hashrate, run stability tests

3. Physical inspection (if possible): Check boards, look for corrosion, test fans, ensure no damage

4. Usage history: Where/how used, operational conditions, any repairs

5. Documentation: Original packaging, manuals, receipts

Common used miner issues:

• Worn fans — noisy/unstable
• Hash board degradation — reduced hashrate
• Power issues — unstable operation
• Overheating — due to dirt or degraded thermal paste

Used miner tips:

1. Buy from reputable sellers
2. Request at least 30-day warranty
3. Budget 10–20% for repairs
4. Avoid devices older than 3–4 years
5. Prefer models with available spare parts

When buying used makes sense:

• You have repair/maintenance experience
• You have access to cheap power
• You want to try mining with minimal investment
• You’re looking for a legacy model

When to buy new:

• First mining experience
• Planning large investments
• Need maximum energy efficiency
• Require official warranty/support

Financial Aspects

Payment methods:

1. Cryptocurrency: Often discounted, fast, but irreversible

2. Bank transfer: Safer for large sums, refundable, but slow

3. PayPal/credit cards: Buyer protection, disputes possible, higher fees

Additional costs:

• Shipping ($100–$300 typical)
• Customs duties (varies by country)
• Shipping insurance
• Taxes (in some regions)

Conclusion

Choosing and purchasing an ASIC miner is a complex process that requires thorough analysis. Success in mining depends not just on buying the most powerful hardware, but also on careful assessment of your resources, expenses, and risks.

Key takeaways:

1. Electricity cost is the primary factor for profitability. Without cheap power, mining is likely unprofitable.

2. Payback period is typically 1–3 years depending on the model and conditions. Be prepared for a long-term investment.

3. Diversification — don’t invest everything in a single hardware type or cryptocurrency.

4. The market is constantly evolving — what’s profitable today may lose money tomorrow as prices and network difficulty change.

5. Quality matters more than price — saving on equipment can lead to higher maintenance and repair costs.

Before investing in ASIC mining, you should:

• Research the market and technology thoroughly
• Calculate all potential expenses and risks
• Start small to gain experience
• Constantly monitor profitability and adapt to changes

Mining can be profitable, but it demands a professional approach, continuous learning, and readiness for risk. Success goes to those who plan carefully, analyze thoroughly, and adapt quickly in the fast-changing crypto market.

FAQ

What’s the difference between ASIC miners and GPU miners? Which is better for beginners?

ASIC miners are more efficient and profitable, but they’re more expensive and less versatile. GPU miners are cheaper, quieter, and can mine various coins. For beginners, GPU mining is often preferable due to lower startup costs and simpler operation.

Which ASIC miners are best to buy in 2024? How do their specs and prices compare?

Top picks: Iceriver KS0 (highest ROI at 545 months), Antminer KS5 Pro (excellent performance), Antminer X5 for Zephyr. Prices vary by model and market conditions. Your budget and target coin will determine the best choice.

What factors should you consider when buying an ASIC miner (hashrate, power consumption, noise, cooling, etc.)?

Check hashrate, energy efficiency, noise level, and cooling system. High hashrate and low power consumption mean better profitability. Effective cooling is critical to manage heat and maximize equipment lifespan.

How is daily income from an ASIC miner calculated? Can electricity costs exceed mining revenue?

Daily income is the gross value of mined coins minus electricity costs. Yes, electricity costs can exceed mining revenue, resulting in losses. Profitability depends on crypto prices and local power rates.

Where can you buy original ASIC miners? How can you avoid buying used or refurbished hardware?

Buy only from official manufacturer stores or authorized dealers. Check warranty, serial numbers, and documentation. Avoid unverified platforms. Request unboxing photos and live performance tests for proof of authenticity.

Which ASIC miners are suitable for mining various cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Litecoin, etc.)?

Bitcoin is mined with SHA-256 ASICs (e.g., Antminer S19 Pro). Litecoin requires Scrypt ASICs (e.g., Antminer L7). Each cryptocurrency needs a specialized ASIC for its hash algorithm.

What is the service life of an ASIC miner? Are maintenance and repair costs high?

ASIC miners usually last 5–10 years physically, with an economic lifespan of about 3 years. Maintenance costs are low, but electricity is the main expense. Repair costs depend on build quality and maintenance—regular cleaning and cooling management extend service life.

Can you use an ASIC miner at home? What are the power and cooling requirements?

Yes, but they require significant power and effective cooling. ASIC miners generate 70–90 decibels of noise. Use a dedicated room and consider water or oil cooling and temperature control to reduce noise and maintain performance.