As cryptocurrency mining continues to evolve, selecting the right hardware remains a critical factor in maximizing returns. While the landscape has shifted significantly since 2021—especially after Ethereum’s transition to proof-of-stake—the principles of evaluating GPU performance, power efficiency, and profitability are still relevant for alternative mining algorithms and blockchain networks. This guide presents an updated perspective on GPU hashrate rankings, energy efficiency, and mining potential, drawing insights from historical data while aligning with current trends in decentralized computing.
Whether you're exploring crypto mining for the first time or optimizing an existing setup, understanding which graphics cards deliver the best balance of speed, power consumption, and cost-effectiveness is essential.
Understanding GPU Hashrate and Mining Performance
Hashrate refers to the computational power a GPU can apply to solving cryptographic puzzles in proof-of-work blockchains. Measured in megahashes per second (MH/s), higher hashrates increase the probability of successfully validating a block and earning rewards. For years, Ethereum (ETH) was the most popular GPU-mineable cryptocurrency using the Ethash algorithm, making it a benchmark for comparing GPU performance.
While ETH mining is no longer viable on GPUs post-Merge, other coins like Ravencoin (KawPoW), Ergo (Autolykos), and Conflux (Octopus) continue to support GPU mining, keeping demand for efficient graphics cards alive.
👉 Discover how modern mining strategies adapt to evolving blockchain networks.
Top GPUs by Hashrate and Efficiency (Historical Benchmark)
The following list reflects peak performance levels achieved by various GPUs during the height of ETH mining in 2021. These figures remain useful for assessing hardware suitability for current GPU-friendly algorithms.
High-Performance Tier (100+ MH/s)
- Nvidia CMP 170HX: 165 MH/s | 250W | ~$12.14/day
Designed specifically for mining, this card offered unmatched hashrate with moderate power draw. - Nvidia RTX 3090: 121.16 MH/s | 290W | ~$8.66/day
A powerhouse for both gaming and mining, though its high power consumption affects net profitability. - AMD Radeon VII: 104.6 MH/s | 195W | ~$7.61/day
Known for excellent memory bandwidth, this card delivered strong performance with relatively low power use. - Nvidia RTX A5000 / A30: ~102–105 MH/s | 140–222W | ~$7.50/day
Professional workstation GPUs that proved highly efficient in mining rigs due to optimized drivers and stability.
Mid-Tier Performers (60–90 MH/s)
- Nvidia RTX 3080: 97.88 MH/s | 224W | ~$7.02/day
One of the most sought-after cards before supply shortages, balancing speed and reliability. - AMD RX 6800 XT / RX 6900 XT: ~64 MH/s | 123–146W | ~$4.60/day
AMD’s RDNA2 architecture brought competitive performance with better power efficiency than many Nvidia counterparts. - Nvidia RTX 3070 / 3060 Ti: ~60–62 MH/s | 117–120W | ~$4.40/day
Excellent value options for budget-conscious miners seeking solid output without excessive energy costs.
Entry-Level and Budget Options (30–60 MH/s)
- Nvidia RTX 2080 Ti / GTX 1080 Ti: ~45–59 MH/s | 150–210W | ~$3.00–$4.20/day
Older but still capable, these cards offer decent performance at lower acquisition costs. - AMD RX 5700 XT / RX Vega Series: ~47–55 MH/s | 91–170W | ~$3.27–$3.97/day
Great for multi-GPU setups where availability and price outweigh peak efficiency. - Nvidia GTX 1660 Super / AMD RX 5500 XT: ~30–32 MH/s | 73–94W | ~$2.14–$2.22/day
Ideal for beginners or small-scale operations focused on minimizing initial investment.
Factors Influencing Mining Profitability
While raw hashrate matters, true profitability depends on several interrelated factors:
- Electricity Cost: The single largest ongoing expense. At $0.10/kWh, a 300W rig running 24/7 costs ~$72/month.
- Hardware Efficiency (MH/W): Cards like the RTX A30 (102 MH/s @ 140W) lead in efficiency (~0.73 MH/W).
- Market Volatility: Coin prices directly affect daily earnings—even a high-hashrate card may underperform if market value drops.
- Hardware Lifespan: Continuous full-load operation degrades components faster; cooling and maintenance are crucial.
- Algorithm Compatibility: Not all GPUs perform equally across different mining algorithms (e.g., KawPoW vs. Autolykos).
👉 Learn how real-time market data impacts mining ROI calculations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GPU mining still profitable in 2025?
Yes, but selectively. With Ethereum no longer mineable via GPU, profitability now hinges on alternative coins like Ravencoin, Ergo, or Conflux. Success requires careful selection of efficient hardware and monitoring of electricity costs and coin valuations.
Which GPU offers the best energy efficiency?
The Nvidia RTX A30 stands out with a high hashrate-to-power ratio (~0.73 MH/W), making it ideal for long-term operations where energy efficiency directly impacts margins.
Can older GPUs like the GTX 1060 still be used?
Absolutely. While their hashrates are modest (~20 MH/s), older models remain viable for low-power setups or educational purposes, especially when acquired at low cost.
What replaced Ethash after Ethereum’s Merge?
Ethash was effectively retired for Ethereum, but it lives on in forks like Ethereum Fair (ETF) and other niche chains. Most miners have migrated to algorithms such as KawPoW (Ravencoin) or Autolykos (Ergo), which are designed to resist ASIC dominance.
Do I need specialized software to mine?
Yes. Tools like T-Rex Miner, GMiner, or NBMiner support modern algorithms and provide real-time monitoring, overclocking, and failover features essential for maintaining uptime and efficiency.
How do I calculate my potential earnings?
Use online calculators (e.g., MinerStat or WhatToMine) by inputting your GPU model, local electricity rate, pool fees, and internet speed. These tools estimate daily revenue in USD or BTC equivalents based on current network difficulty and exchange rates.
Optimizing Your Mining Setup
To get the most from your hardware:
- Overclock Conservatively: Slight memory tweaks can boost hashrate without overheating.
- Use Linux-Based Miners: Lightweight OSes like HiveOS reduce overhead and improve stability.
- Monitor Temperatures: Keep GPUs below 75°C to extend lifespan.
- Join Reliable Pools: Choose pools with low downtime and transparent payout structures.
- Track Market Trends: Stay informed about coin price movements and upcoming halvings or forks.
👉 Access real-time crypto analytics to fine-tune your mining strategy.
Final Thoughts
Although the golden era of ETH mining has passed, GPU-based mining remains a dynamic field with opportunities in emerging decentralized networks. By leveraging historical performance data and adapting to new algorithms, miners can continue to generate returns—especially when focusing on efficiency, sustainability, and smart resource allocation.
Whether you're repurposing old hardware or building a new rig, the key lies in balancing upfront costs with long-term gains, all while staying agile in a fast-changing digital economy.
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