How to Mine Ethereum with GTX 1060: A Complete ETC Mining Software Guide

·

Mining cryptocurrency using consumer-grade hardware like the NVIDIA GTX 1060 has been a popular entry point for many into the world of decentralized digital assets. While Ethereum (ETH) officially transitioned to proof-of-stake in 2022, making traditional GPU mining obsolete for ETH, Ethereum Classic (ETC) remains a viable and actively mined proof-of-work blockchain. This guide walks you through how to mine Ethereum Classic using a GTX 1060 GPU, including recommended mining software, configuration steps, and essential tips to optimize performance.

Whether you're revisiting older hardware or building a budget-friendly mining rig, the GTX 1060 still holds relevance in today’s mining ecosystem—especially for coins like ETC that prioritize accessibility and decentralization.

Why Mine Ethereum Classic with a GTX 1060?

The GTX 1060, particularly the 6GB variant, offers a solid balance between power efficiency and hashrate for Ethereum Classic mining. With average hashrates ranging from 18–22 MH/s and relatively low power consumption (~120W under load), it's ideal for small-scale or beginner miners.

Ethereum Classic (ETC) continues to support GPU mining, preserving the original Ethereum vision of decentralized, ASIC-resistant consensus. This makes it an attractive option for individuals using consumer GPUs like the 1060.

👉 Discover how to maximize your mining returns with optimized tools and platforms.

Core Keywords:

Step-by-Step Guide to Set Up GTX 1060 for ETC Mining

Step 1: Choose Reliable ETC Mining Software

Selecting stable and efficient mining software is crucial for consistent performance and minimal downtime. Here are some of the most trusted options compatible with the GTX 1060:

While Claymore was once popular, it's no longer actively maintained, so newer alternatives are recommended.

For non-English speakers, GitHub often hosts community-translated versions or documentation. Use tools like Google Translate to interpret configuration files or setup guides if needed.

👉 Access advanced analytics and tools to track your mining output in real time.

Step 2: Join an Ethereum Classic Mining Pool

Solo mining is impractical for individual miners due to low chances of solving blocks. Instead, join a mining pool to combine hashing power and receive regular payouts.

Top ETC mining pools include:

To get started:

  1. Visit the pool’s website and create an account (if required).
  2. Generate a worker name (e.g., worker1).
  3. Note down the pool address and port number for configuration.

You’ll also need an Ethereum Classic wallet address to receive earnings. Use secure wallets like:

Step 3: Configure Your Mining Software

After downloading your chosen miner (e.g., Nanominer), extract the files to a dedicated folder. Configuration typically involves editing a .conf or .bat file depending on the software.

Here’s an example using a .bat file for T-Rex Miner:

t-rex.exe -a ethash -o stratum+tcp://etc.2miners.com:1010 -u YOUR_ETC_WALLET_ADDRESS -p x -w worker1

Replace YOUR_ETC_WALLET_ADDRESS with your actual ETC wallet address.

For Nanominer (which uses a config file):

  1. Open config.ini.
  2. Add your wallet address under [EthereumClassic].
  3. Set pool host: etc.2miners.com, port: 1010.
  4. Save and launch nanominer.exe.

Ensure your GPU drivers are up to date and consider undervolting the 1060 for better efficiency and reduced heat output.

Step 4: Monitor and Optimize Performance

Once running, your miner should display real-time stats such as:

Check your mining pool dashboard by entering your wallet address—you should see your worker connected within minutes.

To improve efficiency:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I still mine Ethereum (ETH) with a GTX 1060?

No. Ethereum transitioned to proof-of-stake in 2022 through "The Merge," ending GPU mining for ETH. However, Ethereum Classic (ETC) remains a proof-of-work chain and is fully mineable with GPUs like the 1060.

What is the expected hashrate of a GTX 1060 when mining ETC?

The GTX 1060 6GB typically achieves 18–22 MH/s on Ethash-based algorithms like ETC. The 3GB version may perform slightly lower and could face memory limitations in future network upgrades.

How do I check my mining rewards?

Most mining pools provide real-time dashboards. Simply visit the pool’s website (e.g., f2pool.com or 2miners.com), enter your ETC wallet address, and view your current balance, hashrate, and estimated payout time.

Is GPU mining still profitable in 2025?

Profitability depends on electricity costs, coin price, and network difficulty. As of 2025, mining ETC with a single 1060 may yield modest returns—ideal for hobbyists or those reusing existing hardware. Use online calculators like WhatToMine or MinerStat to estimate daily profits.

What are the risks of GPU mining?

Potential risks include:

Can minors engage in cryptocurrency mining?

While technically possible, we do not recommend mining for minors. It involves financial risk, electricity costs, legal considerations around taxation, and potential exposure to volatile markets. Parental guidance is essential if pursued.

👉 Stay ahead of market trends and optimize your crypto journey today.

By following this guide, you can effectively repurpose a GTX 1060 for Ethereum Classic mining, gaining hands-on experience in blockchain technology while potentially earning passive income. While large-scale profitability may be limited with older hardware, the educational value and community participation make it a worthwhile endeavor for enthusiasts.

Always remember to prioritize safety, security, and sustainability in your setup—and keep an eye on evolving network dynamics that could affect long-term viability.