Best Bitcoin Mining Pools
Mining pools emerged shortly after Bitcoin’s creation. Even in those early days when mining difficulty hadn’t yet skyrocketed, miners realized they could earn more coins by working together rather than solo. Let’s examine how mining pools operate, what payout methods they use, and how to choose the right platform. Using real-time data from MiningPoolStats, we’ve compiled a ranked list of the best Bitcoin mining pools to help you make an informed decision.
Bitcoin (BTC)
SHA-256
|
Pool fee
|
History for 7 days |
Hashrate 1206.22 Eh/s |
In the last 100 blocks |
Last block |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pool4ever
|
|
413.81 Gh/s |
-
|
-
|
||
Solopool
|
|
6.71 Ph/s |
-
|
0
|
||
Hiveon
|
- | - | - |
-
|
-
|
|
AntPool +
|
|
200.00 Eh/s |
20
0.97
|
927284
54 min.
|
||
ViaBTC +
|
|
118.19 Eh/s |
12
1.4
|
927286
18 min.
|
||
Trustpool +
|
|
12.84 Eh/s |
-
|
-
|
||
EMCD +
|
|
33.58 Eh/s |
-
|
-
|
||
F2Pool +
|
|
125.89 Eh/s |
9
-3.11
|
927283
1 h
|
||
DogPool +
|
- | 9.34 Eh/s |
-
|
-
|
||
Okminer +
|
|
1.20 Eh/s |
-
|
-
|
||
Kryptex +
|
|
290.02 Ph/s |
-
|
385126
7 h
|
||
Poolin +
|
|
3.48 Eh/s |
1
0.68
|
927197
13 h
|
||
Mining-dutch +
|
|
9.57 Ph/s |
-
|
895496
9 d
|
||
Hash Space
|
- | - | - |
-
|
-
|
|
21pool
|
|
6.89 Eh/s |
-
|
-
|
||
Cloverpool +
|
|
9.33 Eh/s |
-
|
927004
1 d
|
||
Braiinspool
|
|
13.44 Eh/s |
4
2.77
|
927273
2 h
|
||
Ocean
|
|
15.75 Eh/s |
1
-0.45
|
927213
11 h
|
||
Ntminerpool +
|
|
22.25 Eh/s |
-
|
900765
29 d
|
||
Neopool +
|
|
13.82 Eh/s |
-
|
-
|
||
| * |
Neopool +
|
|
13.82 Eh/s |
-
|
-
|
|
Bitfufu
|
|
2.88 Eh/s |
-
|
894245
12 d
|
||
SBICrypto
|
|
13.12 Eh/s |
-
|
927069
1 d
|
||
Secpool
|
|
41.10 Eh/s |
3
-0.67
|
927266
3 h
|
||
Luxor
|
|
42.42 Eh/s |
2
-1.83
|
927278
1 h
|
||
MARA
|
- | 52.70 Eh/s |
5
0.26
|
927279
1 h
|
||
SpiderPool +
|
|
99.35 Eh/s |
5
-4.08
|
927272
2 h
|
||
Binance
|
|
76.05 Eh/s |
7
-0.18
|
927260
4 h
|
||
Foundry
|
|
292.29 Eh/s |
29
2.46
|
927285
31 min.
|
What Are BTC Mining Pools?
From its inception, the first cryptocurrency has been the most coveted coin to mine. Its price, value, and liquidity made it the prime target. More and more crypto enthusiasts have been joining the network. They upgraded from standard graphics cards to more powerful ASIC devices. Eventually, industrial-scale companies entered the market through massive data centers. This arms race dramatically increased network difficulty, making mining clusters increasingly valuable. As time passed, solo miners realized that they had almost lost chances for success.
How Bitcoin Mining Pools Work
The operating principle is straightforward: multiple participants extract cryptocurrency together. It looks like a sort of industrial-scale activity, similar to data centers packed with ASICs — but with a crucial difference. While industrial companies typically have a single owner, validators each control their own hardware and hashrate. Rewards are distributed among them according to the payment structure.This raises an obvious question: why would the platform do this? The answer is simple. Each client pays for the privilege of working through the collaboration via pool fees.
Bitcoin Mining Algorithm
“Digital gold” uses the SHA-256 algorithm. It requires powerful ASICs to get results. The network difficulty adjusts every 2,016 blocks (approximately every 2 weeks). When crypto enthusiasts work together in pools, it helps maintain profitability despite increasing competition.
Merged Mining Bitcoin
Merged mining represents an innovative protocol that enables participants to simultaneously secure multiple blockchain networks while performing a single operation. This dual-chain validation mechanism was first conceptualized by Satoshi Nakamoto as a solution to enhance security for smaller blockchain ecosystems without compromising efficiency in the primary net.
The underlying principle involves auxiliary proof-of-work (AuxPoW) systems leveraging the computational power of established networks, predominantly Bitcoin and Litecoin. Through cryptographic cross-chain verification, smaller projects inherit the hash power and security of these dominant blockchains.
Namecoin pioneered merged mining implementation in 2011, creating the first operational model where BTC miners could concurrently validate NMC blocks. This breakthrough was later adopted by Elastos, and demonstrating significant ecosystem improvements.
Interesting Facts About BTC Mining
- The inaugural platform, SlushPool, has been operating since 2010.
- Bitcoin mining has driven remarkable innovations in cooling technologies, particularly in thermal management solutions. Immersion cooling systems now routinely outperform traditional air-cooled setups, delivering superior energy efficiency and hashrate stability.
- Geographically, mining resources have concentrated in three key regions: the United States commands 37.8% of the global hashrate, followed by China (21.1%) and Kazakhstan (13.2%).
- Bitcoin’s deliberately constrained supply cap of 21 million coins creates unique economic dynamics, with the final BTC expected to be mined circa 2140.
- The Bitcoin mining ecosystem frequently catalyzed the rise of alternative PoW cryptocurrencies such as Litecoin (LTC) and Dogecoin (DOGE).
How to Choose the Best Bitcoin Mining Pool
Check commission variants: FPPS, PPLNS or other types we wrote above. Avoid places with hidden fees or withdrawal charges.
Aim for this type of business controlling 5-15% of the network’s total hashrate. Larger market players offer frequent payouts but contribute to centralization, while smaller may have longer intervals between rewards.
Proximity reduces latency, improving efficiency.
Minimum withdrawals vary significantly. Choose according to your capacity.
Payout Models in BTC Pools
This model pays for every valid share submitted toward block extraction (hence the name). The union sets the share value based on network difficulty, block reward, and total hashing power. Since these variables fluctuate, the balance of profitability shifts—sometimes favoring participants, other times the cluster itself. This approach particularly appeals if you have limited computational resources.
However, fees tend to be higher compared to other methods, and the crypto syndicate may retain earnings to offset costs during periods of rejected blocks or extended search times.
This method applies a scaling profit coefficient (ranging from 0 to 1) that increases proportionally to the number of shares submitted. The platform defines a threshold after which rewards are paid in full. It also implements a “grace period”: earnings gradually decrease after a miner disconnects.
Pay Per Last N Shares incentivizes continuous, long-term process. The union independently determines how many shares influence payouts, making this model best suited for mid-to-high-power ASICS.
An enhanced version of PPS that adds transaction fees to miner payouts, boosting earnings by an additional 10-20%.
Combines the two previous methods. It offers fixed block rewards (like PPS) while distributing fees via PPLNS. For clients, this proves more profitable than standard PPS.
The original reward payment system, where the full block reward goes solely to the person who successfully mines it.
Top-10 BTC Mining Pools
1. Foundry USA
Overview: A U.S.-based platform controlling 15-18% of the Bitcoin hashrate.
Advantages: Low commission rates – competitive pricing compared to similar platforms. Preferential loan terms – exclusive benefits for borrowers. Dedicated account manager – personalized assistance and prompt support. Earnings in Bitcoin – an alternative to traditional currency payouts.
Drawbacks: Limited cryptocurrency selection – not all digital assets are supported. Complex registration process – requires identity verification and compliance checks. Headquartered in the U.S. – potential regulatory hurdles for non-residents.
2. AntPool
Overview: The dominant platform (18-20% hashrate) owned by Bitmain.
Strengths: Wide selection of cryptocurrencies – supports a diverse range of digital assets. Three integrated software tools – comprehensive functionality in one platform. 24/7 customer support – assistance available around the clock. High popularity – trusted by a large user base. Robust security measures – reliable protection for funds and data. Low fees – competitive and cost-effective pricing.
Weaknesses: Complex interface – may be overwhelming for some users. Not beginner-friendly – requires a learning curve to navigate effectively.
3. F2Pool
Overview: Industry veteran (since 2013) commanding 16-18% network share.
Positive Aspects: Industry-leading hashrates for optimal performance. Support for merged mining. Proven track record since 2013.
Concerns: No Russian language interface available. Above-average transaction and service fees.
4. ViaBTC
Overview: Chinese company operation (7-9% hashrate) specializing in exotic coin support.
Key Benefits: Seamless coin switching – transition between select coins without efficiency loss. Low fees – cost-effective transaction and mining rates. High hashrate – optimized performance for maximum output.
Challenges: Mandatory registration – requires account creation to access services. Hardware requirements – incompatible with low-performance equipment. Withdrawal delays – funds above a certain threshold are not processed instantly.
5. SpiderPool
Overview: Emerging player (1-2% hashrate) focusing on merged mining.
Benefits: Enterprise-grade reliability and security. Optimized efficiency with high-performance output. User-friendly interface: Intuitive control panel simplifies mining management. Transparent reporting: Real-time statistics and detailed analytics for performance tracking.
Risks: Steep learning curve for beginners. Limited educational resources available. Smaller market share compared to leaders.
6. Binance Pool
Overview: Exchange-affiliated service (5-7% hashrate).
Advantages: Daily payouts (with no minimum balance requirements). Low withdrawal threshold. High hashrate performance. Detailed step-by-step guides available.
Considerations: Mandatory identity verification. Tied to Binance ecosystem.
7. Mara Pool
Overview: NASDAQ-listed (MARA) proprietary company.
Notable Features: 100% renewable energy utilization. Institutional-grade security protocols. Publicly traded company transparency.
Limitations: Closed to external participants. Centralization concerns. Not available for public mining.
8. Luxor Technologies
Overview: Niche operator specializing in hashrate derivatives.
Differentiators: Multi-currency support. High-performance operation. Seamless coin switching. Enterprise-grade security & reliability.
Barriers: Steep learning curve. Mid-range fee structure. More suitable for advanced users.
9. SECPool
Overview: Russian-operated with CIS infrastructure.
Advantages: Reliable payouts. Transparent fee structure. Multi-cryptocurrency support. High-speed processing. CIS-focused infrastructure.
Constraints: Low network influence. Limited educational resources available. Regional focus may limit global appeal.
10. EMCD
Overview: European-based transparent service.
Notable Aspects: Two-factor authentication (2FA). Low minimum withdrawal amount. Zero-fee withdrawals. Deposits supported. Transparent operations.
Drawbacks: Limited coin selection. Variable hashrates. Fixed profit calculation. Smaller pool size.
BTC Solo Mining Pool
Not all participants are willing to unite their computing power with others. That’s why many mining pools offer a solo mode option. While you’re limited to your own hardware’s capabilities, this approach comes with a critical advantage: you keep 100% of block rewards for yourself.
1. ViaBTC
Since its launch in 2016, the platform has consistently demonstrated reliability and security. Its intuitive interface combined with diverse coin options and payout methods have secured its position among top mining pools.
2. Mining Dutch
Offering 24/7 support, flexible options, instant payouts every 15 minutes with zero fees, and an automated currency exchange system to maximize profits. The platform provides full control via user-friendly interface while maintaining reliability since 2018 under Dutch regulation.
3. Zsolo
With an impressive 278,904 PH/s hash rate and competitive 0.5% fee, Zsolo provides robust infrastructure for solo miners. The platform features real-time statistics, reliable server uptime, and supports multiple mining algorithms. Its straightforward setup process makes it accessible for both experienced and new solo miners.
4. CKPool
Specifically optimized for small-scale operations starting at 500 GH/s with a 1.5% fee. CKPool offers minimal configuration requirements and efficient resource allocation. The platform’s lightweight design ensures stable performance for individual miners, with transparent reporting and regular payouts for successfully mined blocks.
5. Luckymonster
Based in the USA with a low 0.5% fee, Luckymonster provides reliable solo mining services with multiple server locations across North America. The platform features low latency connections, comprehensive monitoring tools, and supports various mining hardware. Their responsive support team and detailed documentation help miners optimize their solo mining operations.
How to Join a Bitcoin Mining Pool
Frequently Asked Questions About BTC Mining Pools
Bitcoin’s extremely high and constantly increasing mining difficulty makes solo mining practically impossible for most participants. By combining their hashing power in pools, miners can achieve consistent results and regular payouts.
Facing centralization concerns and energy scrutiny, but essential for Bitcoin’s security and evolving with greener technologies.
For Bitcoin – always choose pools. For some altcoins with low difficulty, solo might work.
Reputable pools with long track records are generally safe. Research history and user reviews before depositing.
Yes, but you may lose unconfirmed shares. Always wait for payouts before switching.
An ASIC miner is essential for Bitcoin. Even older models can earn payouts in pools.
Depends on the pool. Most pay daily or when you reach a minimum balance (e.g., 0.001 BTC).
Start Mining BTC Today
To successfully mine Bitcoin, start by acquiring specialized ASIC hardware that provides the hashrate needed to compete. Next, select a mining pool based on fees, payout thresholds, and server locations.
After setting up your hardware, configure mining software like CGMiner (for advanced users) or NiceHash (for beginners) to connect your equipment to the network. Once connected, you’ll start earning Bitcoin and receive payouts when your pool mines a block, based on your contributed hash power.
Key Consideration Before Starting
Always use a mining calculator to estimate profitability before investing in equipment. Calculate based on your electricity costs, hardware efficiency, and current Bitcoin difficulty. Mining is significantly more profitable with electricity costs below $0.10 per kWh.
Final Recommendations
- Start Small – Begin with a proven ASIC miner and a reliable pool.
- Calculate Costs – Ensure your electricity rate is favorable for profitability.
- Choose Pools Over Solo – For most, pooled mining offers much steadier payouts.
- Diversify – Consider splitting hashrate between pools to mitigate risk.
- Monitor & Optimize – Regularly track your hashrate and hardware performance.
- Stay Updated – Network difficulty and Bitcoin price changes directly impact earnings.
