CPU Mining Cryptocurrency 2020
If you are searching for detailed information on CPU mining in 2020, you have found the right place. The year 2020 marked a significant turning point for processor-based mining, primarily driven by the implementation of the RandomX protocol by Monero. This guide explores the hardware, software, and strategies that defined CPU mining during this period.
The Rise of CPU Mining in 2020
The primary catalyst for the resurgence of CPU mining was Monero's switch to the RandomX algorithm in late November 2019. This proof-of-work algorithm was intentionally designed to resist the efficiencies of ASICs and GPUs, creating a more level playing field for standard computer processors. By leveraging a CPU's large L3 cache and random code execution, RandomX made it so that a high-end desktop processor could hash almost as efficiently as a multi-GPU rig. This democratization of mining allowed countless individuals with capable PCs to begin mining Monero directly without a massive upfront investment in specialized hardware.
Other coins also maintained CPU-friendly algorithms. VerusCoin, for example, utilized the VerusHash 2.0 algorithm, which was also designed to be ASIC-resistant and performed exceptionally well on both high-end and mobile CPUs.
Best CPUs for Mining in 2020
When evaluating hardware for CPU mining in 2020, the two most critical specifications were the size of the L3 cache and the number of cores and threads. The RandomX algorithm relies heavily on fast access to a large pool of memory, making processors with substantial caches highly effective.
- AMD Ryzen 9 and Threadripper: The Ryzen 9 3950X, with its 16 cores and 64MB of L3 cache, was widely considered the gold standard for RandomX mining. It offered a sweet spot of performance, power consumption, and price. The Threadripper 3970X and 3990X provided even higher core counts and massive cache sizes, making them absolute hash rate monsters, albeit with higher power draw and cost.
- AMD EPYC: Server-grade EPYC processors, such as the 7xx2 series, were the top-tier performers. With up to 64 cores and 256MB of L3 cache, they could achieve incredible hashrates, but they were typically reserved for serious mining operations due to their high platform cost and power requirements.
- Intel Core i9 and Xeon: High-end Intel CPUs like the Core i9-10980XE could mine effectively, but they generally lagged behind AMD offerings in terms of hash rate per dollar for RandomX. Their smaller L3 cache configurations made them less competitive for this specific algorithm.
For CPU-friendly coins like VerusCoin, the performance gap between AMD and Intel narrowed significantly, and even consumer-grade processors could mine effectively at lower power levels.
Mining Software and Setup
The dominant software for CPU mining in 2020 was XMRig. XMRig is an open-source, highly optimized miner that supports RandomX, CryptoNight, and other algorithms. It became the industry standard for Monero mining.
Getting Started with XMRig
- Download: Obtain the latest build of XMRig from its official GitHub repository. Pre-built binaries are available for Windows, Linux, and macOS.
- Configuration: The easiest way to configure XMRig is via the built-in
config.jsonfile. You must specify your wallet address, the mining pool address, and the number of CPU threads to use. XMRig also provides extensive command-line options for fine-tuning. - Pool Selection: Joining a mining pool provides consistent, smaller payouts rather than waiting for a solo block find. Popular Monero pools in 2020 included SupportXMR, MineXMR, and NanoPool.
- Fine-Tuning Performance: Enabling huge pages (often called 1GB pages on Linux or data execution prevention settings on Windows) can significantly improve hash rates. Setting the correct number of threads is also crucial; leaving one core free for system tasks often yields the best overall system responsiveness and stability.
Profitability and Considerations
The profitability of CPU mining in 2020 varied widely based on your electricity costs, hardware, and the price of the cryptocurrency you were mining.
- Electricity Cost: High-end CPUs can consume 200W to 400W under full load. If your electricity rate is high, a significant portion of your earnings could be consumed by the power bill.
- Heat and Cooling: Running a CPU at 100% load generates substantial heat. Adequate cooling, whether air or liquid, is essential to prevent thermal throttling and maintain a stable hashrate. The noise level from cooling fans can also be considerable.
- Hardware Wear: While modern processors are robust, running them at maximum load 24/7 will eventually lead to degradation, especially if temperatures are not kept in check. Undervolting the CPU is a recommended technique to lower power draw and heat without a significant loss in performance.
- Market Comparison: For most of 2020, GPU mining (especially for Ethereum) offered higher absolute returns. However, CPU mining provided a unique, low-barrier entry point. For a detailed look at broader profit strategies, you can read our guide on making a profit with crypto. To see how other hardware form factors compare, check out crypto mining with mobile devices.
Thank you for reading.