Is Ethereum Mining Dead?
Wondering how to mine Ethereum in 2025? Since the switch to PoS, it's no longer possible, but you can stake and earn Ethereum instead. Learn more in our guide.
Ethereum switched from Proof of Work (mining) to Proof of Stake (staking) in 2022.
As such, Ethereum mining is no longer possible.
However, investors can now stake to earn Ethereum instead.
Staking crypto is generally simpler and less resource intensive than mining crypto.
Alternatives to Ethereum mining include Bitcoin mining, Ethereum classic mining, and more.
Ethereum mining isn’t possible since the Ethereum Merge back in 2022 when Ethereum switched from a Proof of Work consensus mechanism to a Proof of Stake consensus mechanism.
However, investors can now stake Ethereum instead to earn rewards. We’re covering the differences between the two in our guide, as well as alternatives to Ethereum mining.
Read next: Bitcoin Mining Guide
What happened to Ethereum mining?
In 2022, Ethereum transitioned from a Proof of Work (PoW) system to Proof of Stake (PoS) through a major upgrade known as the Ethereum Merge.
This change means that mining ETH is no longer possible. Instead, users can now earn rewards by staking their ETH.
Why did Ethereum make the switch?
The primary goals of moving from PoW to PoS were to lower transaction fees and boost processing speeds.
The transition sparked controversy among miners, with some large-scale operations redirecting their efforts to other PoW-based networks like Litecoin and Dogecoin.
Nonetheless, the Merge significantly improved Ethereum’s performance and environmental impact. It’s estimated that the network’s energy consumption dropped by 99.95% following the upgrade.
Read next: How to Stake Ethereum
PoW vs. PoS
Proof of Work (PoW) and Proof of Stake (PoS) are both consensus mechanisms used to validate transactions and secure blockchain networks, but they operate in fundamentally different ways.
PoW relies on miners competing to solve complex mathematical problems using high-powered computers. The first to solve the problem gets to validate the next block and earn a reward. This process demands a lot of energy and specialized hardware.
PoS, on the other hand, replaces mining with staking. Instead of solving puzzles, users lock up a certain amount of cryptocurrency (in Ethereum’s case, ETH) to become validators. The network randomly selects validators to confirm transactions, with higher chances given to those who stake more. This method is much more energy-efficient and doesn’t require expensive equipment.
Energy use: PoS consumes a fraction of the energy that PoW systems do, making it significantly more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Equipment needs: PoW mining requires costly hardware like GPUs or ASICs. PoS doesn’t require any specialized gear—anyone with a compatible wallet and staked ETH can participate.
Earning potential: With PoW, rewards go to those with the most computing power. In PoS, rewards are based on how much crypto you stake and your role in validating blocks.
Network security: PoS is often viewed as more secure against certain attacks, such as the 51% attack. Gaining majority control would require owning most of the staked ETH, which would be economically irrational for anyone trying to harm the network they heavily invested in.
Read next: Crypto Staking Guide
Ethereum mining alternatives
While Ethereum can no longer be mined since its transition to PoS, there are still several cryptocurrencies that use PoW and remain viable options for miners, especially those with existing equipment. You can check out our dedicated guide to the best crypto to mine, but in brief, some popular options include:
Bitcoin (BTC) is the most well-known cryptocurrency, and many investors are drawn to its potential rewards. However, Bitcoin mining is extremely competitive and requires highly specialized, expensive ASIC hardware. For most at-home miners, staying profitable with BTC is very difficult.
Dogecoin (DOGE) is another popular coin, especially among casual or first-time miners. Like Bitcoin, it uses the Scrypt algorithm and is mined with ASICs—so while it has a lower entry barrier than BTC in some ways, it still requires dedicated hardware.
Ravencoin (RVN) is a favorite for at-home miners using GPUs. It was specifically designed to be ASIC-resistant, meaning it can only be mined with more affordable graphics cards. This makes it one of the more accessible and potentially profitable options for individuals without industrial-scale setups.
Ethereum Classic (ETC) is a continuation of Ethereum’s original chain before the 2016 fork. It still uses the Ethash algorithm, which was also used by Ethereum before the Merge. Many former ETH miners transitioned to ETC, but it’s important to know that ETC has a smaller community and lower market value compared to Ethereum.
Ergo (ERG) is another strong option for GPU miners. It supports advanced smart contracts and was built with energy efficiency in mind. Like Ravencoin, it aims to be accessible and ASIC-resistant.
Flux (FLUX) powers a decentralized cloud computing platform and is mined using GPUs. It has gained traction for offering practical utility beyond just being a digital currency.
Read next: How to Mine Ethereum Classic
Don’t forget the tax bill…
Whether you’re mining or staking, your rewards are probably taxable. Learn more in our dedicated crypto mining taxes and crypto staking taxes guides, or sign up to Koinly free today to automatically calculate your crypto taxes.
