Best Coins to Mine with a CPU in 2024

You may think that mining cryptocurrency with a CPU is outdated, but in 2024, it's still very much possible to profit from it. While the competition is tough, especially from GPU and ASIC miners, there are certain coins that are still CPU-mineable, making it accessible for the everyday enthusiast.

Why Mine with a CPU?
In 2024, the major benefit of CPU mining is that it remains a low-cost entry point into the cryptocurrency world. With just a regular desktop or laptop, you can get started without needing to purchase expensive hardware. Of course, your profits won’t be astronomical, but for some coins, CPU mining is still a viable option.

Let’s dive into some of the best coins you can mine with a CPU in 2024, including Monero (XMR), VerusCoin (VRSC), Raptoreum (RTM), and a few other notable options.

Monero (XMR): The Privacy Coin King

Monero remains one of the top CPU-mineable coins, mainly because it uses the RandomX algorithm, which is designed to favor CPU miners over GPUs or ASICs. Monero’s focus on privacy and decentralization ensures that it continues to attract CPU miners.

• Algorithm: RandomX
• Why CPU-Friendly: The RandomX algorithm discourages ASICs and levels the playing field for CPU miners.
• Mining Pool or Solo: While solo mining is possible, joining a pool might increase your chances of more frequent payouts.

Here’s an example of estimated earnings for Monero miners based on a mid-range CPU in 2024:

CPU Model	Hashrate (H/s)	Estimated Daily Earnings (XMR)	Estimated Daily Earnings (USD)
Ryzen 9 5900X	12,000	0.0014	$0.20
Intel i7 12700K	10,000	0.0012	$0.17
Ryzen 5 3600	7,000	0.0008	$0.11

This table shows that while CPU mining won’t make you rich overnight, it’s a way to steadily accumulate coins if you play the long game.

VerusCoin (VRSC): Adaptive Mining for Efficiency

Another strong contender for CPU mining is VerusCoin, which uses a unique VerusHash 2.0 algorithm that adjusts based on the capabilities of your hardware. What makes VerusCoin interesting is its commitment to remaining ASIC-resistant and CPU-friendly.

• Algorithm: VerusHash 2.0
• Why CPU-Friendly: The algorithm optimizes mining for both CPUs and GPUs but gives CPUs a significant advantage.
• Mining Strategy: Many miners recommend combining CPU and GPU for this coin, but if you have only a CPU, you can still make a profit.

CPU Model	Hashrate (H/s)	Estimated Daily Earnings (VRSC)	Estimated Daily Earnings (USD)
Ryzen 9 5900X	20,000	2.5	$0.30
Intel i7 12700K	15,000	1.9	$0.22
Ryzen 5 3600	9,000	1.1	$0.13

VerusCoin’s adaptive system ensures that your CPU is utilized efficiently, giving miners a good return even with mid-range processors.

Raptoreum (RTM): The Emerging Star

Raptoreum is another standout in the CPU mining world. Its GhostRider algorithm is specifically optimized for CPUs, making it one of the few projects that remain truly CPU-focused. This gives miners an advantage, as they aren’t competing with expensive ASICs or high-powered GPUs.

• Algorithm: GhostRider
• Why CPU-Friendly: Raptoreum’s algorithm prevents GPUs and ASICs from taking over, allowing CPUs to remain competitive.
• Mining Setup: This coin is perfect for miners who want to set up a CPU-only rig.

CPU Model	Hashrate (H/s)	Estimated Daily Earnings (RTM)	Estimated Daily Earnings (USD)
Ryzen 9 5900X	7,500	550	$0.25
Intel i7 12700K	6,000	450	$0.21
Ryzen 5 3600	4,000	300	$0.15

Raptoreum's unique algorithm rewards miners with higher profits compared to most other CPU-mined coins.

Other Coins Worth Considering

While Monero, VerusCoin, and Raptoreum stand out as top choices, there are a few other coins worth mentioning:

• Nerva (XNV): Uses the CryptoNight Adaptive algorithm, making it resistant to both ASIC and GPU mining, ensuring CPUs stay relevant.
• Yenten (YTN): Another CryptoNight variant, Yenten is a lesser-known coin but remains an option for those looking to mine with lower-end hardware.
• Scala (XLA): An energy-efficient coin with the Panthera algorithm, making it perfect for mobile or low-power devices.

How to Get Started with CPU Mining

If you’re new to CPU mining, here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Choose Your Coin: Decide on which coin to mine based on your hardware and mining goals.
2. Download Mining Software: Most of the coins listed above have official mining software that you can download from their websites. For example, you can use XMRig for Monero and VerusCoin’s official miner for Verus.
3. Join a Pool or Solo Mine: Depending on the coin, solo mining may or may not be profitable. For smaller coins like Raptoreum or Yenten, solo mining can sometimes yield better returns, but for larger coins like Monero, pool mining is recommended.
4. Monitor Your Profits: Use mining calculators to check your daily earnings and adjust your setup as needed.
5. Reinvest or Hold: After mining, decide whether you want to sell your coins immediately or hold them for long-term gains.

Is CPU Mining Still Profitable in 2024?

The answer is yes, but with conditions. If you’re mining a coin like Monero or Raptoreum and have access to a high-performance CPU, you can still make a reasonable profit. However, the key is to be patient. CPU mining is more about steady accumulation over time rather than immediate riches.

Environmental and Energy Considerations

One important aspect of CPU mining is its relatively low energy consumption compared to GPU or ASIC mining. However, you’ll still want to keep an eye on your electricity costs, as they can eat into your profits if not managed properly. In some regions with high electricity prices, CPU mining may not be profitable unless you’re using highly efficient hardware.

Here’s a basic breakdown of the energy costs of CPU mining with different processors:

CPU Model	Power Usage (Watts)	Estimated Monthly Energy Cost (USD)
Ryzen 9 5900X	140	$12.00
Intel i7 12700K	125	$10.50
Ryzen 5 3600	65	$5.50

Final Thoughts

In 2024, CPU mining is still alive and kicking, especially with coins like Monero, VerusCoin, and Raptoreum leading the way. While you won’t get rich overnight, CPU mining provides an accessible way for newcomers to get involved in the crypto space without a massive upfront investment. With the right hardware, software, and coin selection, you can still turn a profit, or at the very least, accumulate valuable coins for the future.