Despite the possibility of mining Bitcoin on a regular PC equipped with a dedicated graphics card, the performance will be significantly inferior to specialized machines. In other words: don't expect profits.
Today, Bitcoin mining is only worthwhile with specialized equipment called ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits), which are far more powerful and efficient than any home PC.
However, learning how to mine Bitcoin on a PC can be useful for those who want to understand how the process works. This experience serves as a foundation for studying blockchain technology or testing mining software functionality.
Before you begin, ensure your computer meets the following requirements:
- Dedicated graphics cards (GPU), such as NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 or higher;
- Compatible motherboard that supports multiple GPUs;
- Robust power supply, with an 80 Plus Bronze certification or better;
- At least 8 GB RAM to ensure stability;
- 120 GB SSD storage or more for the system and software;
- Stable internet connection to maintain network communication;
- Cooling system to prevent overheating.
Follow this step-by-step guide to mine Bitcoin on your PC!
1. Get a Bitcoin Wallet
You’ll need a digital wallet to receive mined Bitcoins. Options include:
- An online wallet;
- A desktop/mobile app;
- A hardware wallet (physical device).
👉 Explore secure wallet options
2. Set Up Your Mining PC
Ensure your PC meets the requirements above. Mining performance depends heavily on your GPU, power supply, and cooling system.
While ASICs outperform PCs in speed and efficiency, a well-configured GPU setup can still be a valuable learning tool. Avoid relying solely on CPUs or laptops—they lack sufficient power.
3. Install Mining Software
Choose mining software compatible with your hardware. Popular options include:
- CCMiner;
- CGMiner;
- BFGMiner;
- NiceHash;
- EasyMiner;
- Awesome Miner.
These programs connect your PC to the mining network and optimize resource usage.
4. Join a Mining Pool
Solo mining with a home PC rarely yields significant results. Instead, join a mining pool to combine computational power with other miners. Pools increase your chances of solving blocks and earning rewards proportionally.
Top mining pools:
- Binance Pool (user-friendly);
- F2Pool, ViaBTC, or Slush Pool (advanced options).
Register with a pool and note the connection details: server address, port, username, and password.
5. Configure Mining Software
Enter the required details:
- Your wallet address;
- Pool connection details (server, port, credentials);
- GPU settings (intensity, performance).
6. Start Mining
Launch the software. A terminal window will display real-time stats like hash rate and shares processed.
👉 Boost your mining efficiency
7. Monitor and Maintain
Track GPU temperature, power usage, and system stability. If overheating occurs, pause mining and improve cooling.
FAQ
Is PC mining profitable in 2025?
No—ASICs dominate Bitcoin mining due to their efficiency. PC mining is best for educational purposes.
What’s the minimum GPU requirement?
An NVIDIA RTX 3060 or equivalent AMD card is the baseline for viable performance.
How do I reduce power costs?
Use energy-efficient GPUs and optimize software settings to lower electricity consumption.
Can I mine with a laptop?
Not recommended. Laptops lack cooling and durability for sustained mining.
How often do pools pay rewards?
Payout frequency varies by pool, typically daily or weekly based on your contribution.