CPU mining is an accessible way for newcomers to enter cryptocurrency mining without expensive hardware. Unlike GPU or ASIC mining, which require specialized equipment, CPU mining allows users to mine cryptocurrencies using a standard computer processor. This makes it a low-cost entry point for those looking to earn crypto passively.
However, CPU mining has challenges, such as lower profitability and increasing mining difficulty. While it may not yield the same returns as a GPU or ASIC mining rig, certain cryptocurrencies remain CPU-friendly, offering a viable way to accumulate coins over time.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a CPU-Mineable Coin
Before selecting a cryptocurrency to mine with a CPU, it’s essential to evaluate its potential profitability and sustainability.
- Mining Algorithm
Some algorithms are designed to be ASIC-resistant, ensuring fair mining competition. The most popular CPU-mining algorithms include:
- RandomX (Monero – XMR): Optimized for CPUs and discourages ASIC mining.
- GhostRider (Raptoreum – RTM): Uses a hybrid approach, leveraging CPU cache.
- Argon2d (Pulsar – PLSR): Focuses on energy-efficient mining.
- RandomX (Monero – XMR): Optimized for CPUs and discourages ASIC mining.
- Mining Difficulty and Network Competition
Mining becomes harder as more people join the network. Choosing a coin with lower difficulty ensures better rewards for CPU miners. - Market Value and Liquidity
Mining rewards should have value in the market. A coin with a strong use case, active development, and exchange support is preferable. - Block Rewards and Halving Events
Block rewards determine how much a miner earns for successfully mining a block. Some coins periodically reduce their rewards, affecting profitability. - Wallet and Exchange Support
Ensure the cryptocurrency has a secure wallet and is listed on exchanges for easy conversion into other assets.
Best CPU-Mineable Coins in 2025
Monero (XMR) – Best for Privacy-Focused Mining
Monero remains one of the most profitable CPU-mineable coins due to its RandomX algorithm. It prioritizes privacy and decentralization, making it a popular choice for those who value anonymity in transactions.
- Algorithm: RandomX
- Why Mine It?: High liquidity, strong community, ASIC-resistant
VerusCoin (VRSC) – Best for Adaptive Mining
VerusCoin uses VerusHash, an efficient and adaptive algorithm that balances mining difficulty dynamically. It supports both mining and staking, allowing users to earn rewards passively.
- Algorithm: VerusHash
- Why Mine It?: Adaptive difficulty, supports both mining and staking
Raptoreum (RTM) – Best for Large CPU Cache Utilization
Raptoreum’s GhostRider algorithm takes advantage of CPUs with large cache sizes, giving an edge to modern processors. It is gaining popularity among CPU miners for its efficiency and fair mining model.
- Algorithm: GhostRider
- Why Mine It?: Efficient CPU mining, strong community support
Haven Protocol (XHV) – Best for Private and Stable Mining
Haven Protocol, built on Monero’s blockchain, offers a hybrid mining and finance system where assets can be stored in a stable form (xUSD).
- Algorithm: CryptoNight
- Why Mine It?: Private transactions, built-in stable asset mechanism
Pulsar (PLSR) – Best for Energy-Efficient CPU Mining
Pulsar is designed for low-energy consumption mining, making it an ideal choice for those looking to mine with minimal electricity costs.
- Algorithm: Argon2d
- Why Mine It?: Energy-efficient, ASIC-resistant
Getting Started with CPU Mining
If you want to start CPU mining, follow these steps:
- Select a Cryptocurrency
Choose a coin for mining from the list above based on your goals, market trends, and mining feasibility. - Download a Mining Program
Some of the best CPU mining software includes:
- XMRig – Ideal for mining Monero (XMR).
- SRBMiner – Works well with various CPU-mineable algorithms.
- VerusMiner – Designed for VerusCoin (VRSC).
- XMRig – Ideal for mining Monero (XMR).
- Join a Mining Pool
Solo mining is less profitable unless you have significant computing power. Mining pools allow miners to combine resources and share rewards. Some popular CPU mining pools include:
- MineXMR (Monero)
- R-Plant (Raptoreum)
- HeroMiners (Pulsar, Haven, and others)
- MineXMR (Monero)
- Configure Your Mining Software
Adjust settings such as CPU thread usage and intensity to optimize performance. Using fewer threads can reduce overheating and extend CPU lifespan. - Monitor Performance and Earnings
Track mining statistics using mining pool dashboards and profitability calculators to ensure you’re making a return on your electricity and hardware costs.
Is CPU Mining Profitable in 2025?
While CPU mining isn’t as profitable as GPU or ASIC mining, it remains an option for those looking to earn crypto without significant investment. Factors that influence profitability include:
- Mining difficulty: More miners lead to lower rewards.
- Electricity costs: High power costs can cut into profits.
- Coin value fluctuations: Some coins may increase in value, increasing future earnings.
For beginners, CPU mining can be a way to accumulate crypto passively, but long-term miners may need to upgrade to GPU or ASIC mining for higher returns.
Risks and Challenges in CPU Mining
- Increased Mining Difficulty
As more miners join, rewards decrease, making it harder to mine profitably. - Cryptojacking and Malware Risks
Unauthorized mining malware can infect computers, slowing down performance. Always download mining software from official sources. - Electricity Costs
Continuous mining increases power consumption, so monitoring expenses are crucial. - Market Volatility
Some CPU-minable coins may lose value over time, impacting profitability.
Conclusion
CPU mining is a cost-effective way to enter cryptocurrency mining, but it requires careful coin selection, optimization, and patience. While not as profitable as GPU or ASIC mining, it offers a low-risk way to accumulate crypto without large investments. For those looking to mine efficiently, Monero, Raptoreum, and VerusCoin are strong choices in 2025.
