Best Coin to Mine with Low Hardware Power in 2025
Introduction
As energy costs increase and major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum become harder to mine, miners are now seeking low-hardware, energy-efficient alternatives.
By 2025, the crypto mining space has shifted toward eco-friendly blockchains and accessible mining models, where even users with a PC, laptop, or smartphone can participate.
If you do not have access to expensive GPUs or ASIC miners, this guide outlines which coins can be mined efficiently with limited hardware, how they function, and what returns you can expect.
Learning About Low-Power Mining
Before selecting a coin, it is essential to understand what low hardware mining means.
Traditional mining, especially Bitcoin, demands immense processing power and electricity, which is impractical for most individuals.
In contrast, low-power mining focuses on algorithms like Proof-of-Stake (PoS), Proof-of-Capacity (PoC), or CPU/GPU-light Proof-of-Work (PoW), all of which consume minimal energy.
Table: Types of Mining and Energy Requirements
|
Mining Type |
Description |
Hardware Requirement |
Energy Usage |
|
Proof-of-Work (PoW) |
Conventional mining using GPUs/ASICs. |
High |
Very High |
|
Proof-of-Stake (PoS) |
Earn rewards by staking coins in a wallet. |
Low |
Minimal |
|
Proof-of-Capacity (PoC) |
Uses storage drives instead of CPUs. |
Moderate |
Low |
|
Proof-of-Space and Time |
Combines disk storage and time verification (e.g., Chia). |
Moderate |
Low |
Low-power mining allows small-scale miners to compete efficiently through smarter algorithms rather than brute computing power.
Top Low-Power Coins to Mine in 2025
Here are the most profitable low hardware coins for 2025, perfect for miners seeking regular rewards without massive investments.
1. Monero (XMR)
Monero remains one of the most beginner-friendly and CPU-minable cryptocurrencies.
It uses the RandomX algorithm, optimized for CPU mining, and prevents dominance by ASICs.
Why It’s a Good Choice:
-
CPU-friendly algorithm
-
Strong privacy community
-
Long-term adoption potential
Table: Monero (XMR) Mining Overview
|
Details |
Information |
|
Algorithm |
RandomX |
|
Hardware Needed |
CPU (Intel/AMD) |
|
Mining Software |
XMRig, SRBMiner |
|
Network Type |
Proof-of-Work (ASIC-resistant) |
|
Average Power Usage |
Low |
Ideal for new miners who want to start mining immediately without high-end GPUs.
2. Vertcoin (VTC)
Known as the “People’s Coin”, Vertcoin is designed to be ASIC-resistant, allowing users to mine with consumer-grade GPUs or older rigs.
Why It’s Worth Mining:
-
Focused on decentralization
-
Regular developer support
-
Uses Lyra2REv3 algorithm, favoring low-end GPUs
Table: Vertcoin (VTC) Mining Overview
|
Details |
Information |
|
Algorithm |
Lyra2REv3 |
|
Hardware Needed |
GPU (mid-range) |
|
Mining Software |
One-Click Miner |
|
Power Requirement |
Moderate |
|
Profitability |
Stable, moderate yield |
Vertcoin supports fair mining, ensuring no centralized control by large-scale miners.
3. Ravencoin (RVN)
Ravencoin is another solid option for miners with limited hardware.
Its KawPoW algorithm favors GPU mining and maintains decentralization by being ASIC-resistant.
Benefits:
-
Supports real-world asset tokenization
-
Active community and frequent updates
-
Runs efficiently on consumer GPUs
Table: Ravencoin (RVN) Mining Overview
|
Details |
Information |
|
Algorithm |
KawPoW |
|
Hardware Needed |
GPU (4GB+ VRAM) |
|
Mining Software |
T-Rex Miner, Gminer |
|
Average Power Usage |
Medium |
|
Profitability Level |
Moderate to High |
Ravencoin strikes a balance between performance, power efficiency, and income potential.
4. Chia (XCH)
Chia introduced a revolutionary model, Proof-of-Space and Time, replacing processors with hard drive storage.
Anyone with free disk space can mine and earn rewards.
Advantages:
-
Extremely low energy consumption
-
Eco-friendly consensus mechanism
-
Great for users with large HDDs or SSDs
Table: Chia (XCH) Mining Overview
|
Details |
Information |
|
Algorithm |
Proof-of-Space and Time |
|
Hardware Needed |
HDD/SSD |
|
Mining Software |
Chia Blockchain GUI |
|
Power Usage |
Very Low |
|
Profitability |
Depends on storage size |
Chia represents a green mining model, sustainable and accessible.
5. Dogecoin (DOGE) – via Merged Mining
Dogecoin, once seen as a meme coin, is now a mainstream cryptocurrency.
It runs on the Scrypt algorithm, allowing merged mining with Litecoin, meaning both can be mined simultaneously without extra power.
Why Consider It:
-
Backed by large global trading volume
-
Easy integration with Litecoin setups
-
Strong brand and community appeal
Table: Dogecoin (DOGE) Mining Overview
|
Details |
Information |
|
Algorithm |
Scrypt |
|
Hardware Needed |
GPU or Scrypt ASIC |
|
Mining Software |
CGMiner, EasyMiner |
|
Power Usage |
Moderate |
|
Profitability |
Moderate (depends on Litecoin rewards) |
Dogecoin offers a fun, stable, and social mining environment for newcomers.
How to Select the Best Coin to Mine in 2025
When choosing a coin, evaluate these key criteria:
-
Hardware Compatibility: Match your device (CPU, GPU, HDD) with compatible coins.
-
Energy Efficiency: Prefer coins using low-consumption algorithms.
-
Network Difficulty: Lower difficulty = higher reward potential.
-
Market Value & Liquidity: Ensure it is listed on major exchanges.
-
Community & Development: Active development indicates long-term reliability.
Estimated Profitability of Low-Hardware Mining
Table: Monthly Profit Estimates for Low-Power Coins
|
Coin |
Hardware Type |
Monthly Earnings (Est.) |
Power Cost (Est.) |
Net Profit (Approx.) |
|
Monero (XMR) |
CPU |
$10–$25 |
$2–$5 |
$8–$20 |
|
Vertcoin (VTC) |
GPU |
$15–$30 |
$5–$10 |
$10–$25 |
|
Ravencoin (RVN) |
GPU |
$20–$40 |
$10–$15 |
$10–$25 |
|
Chia (XCH) |
HDD/SSD |
$5–$15 |
$1–$3 |
$4–$12 |
|
Dogecoin (DOGE) |
GPU |
$10–$25 |
$5–$10 |
$5–$15 |
Note: Profitability fluctuates based on market price, network difficulty, and electricity rates.
How to Maximize Mining Efficiency
-
Join Mining Pools: Combine computing power for consistent payouts.
-
Monitor Temperature: Avoid overheating to extend hardware lifespan.
-
Use Energy-Saving Settings: Underclock GPUs when idle.
-
Update Software Regularly: Keep drivers and mining software current.
-
Track Earnings: Use tools like WhatToMine or NiceHash for real-time tracking.
Efficiency and sustainability matter more than brute force, mine smart, not hard.
Conclusion
The best low-hardware coins to mine in 2025 depend on your device, budget, and energy cost.
For CPU miners, Monero (XMR) remains consistent and beginner-friendly.
For GPU miners, Vertcoin (VTC) and Ravencoin (RVN) offer good balance, while Chia (XCH) stands out for eco-conscious storage miners.
Success in low-power mining comes from prioritizing energy efficiency, community-backed networks, and long-term stability over short-term profit.
Whether your goal is to learn, earn, or support decentralization, selecting the right coin ensures profitability even with minimal hardware.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which is the most lucrative coin to mine on a laptop in 2025?
Monero (XMR), it uses the RandomX algorithm, optimized for CPUs, making it ideal for laptops and desktops.
Can low-power mining still be profitable in 2025?
Yes, but it yields modest profits. It’s best viewed as a long-term investment or learning experience.
Is it possible to mine crypto using a hard drive?
Yes. Chia (XCH) allows users to mine through hard drive storage under its Proof-of-Space and Time mechanism.
Which coins consume the least energy?
Chia (XCH) and Monero (XMR) are the most energy-efficient mining options.
Is mobile mining worth it compared to PC mining?
It’s possible but less efficient. A desktop or laptop delivers far better performance and stability than mobile mining.