Monero Mining Experiment: Nintendo Switch Used as Mining Setup
The cryptocurrency market is known for its creativity and innovation, especially when it comes to mining. One community that loves to experiment with mining hardware is Monero (XMR). Recently, an anonymous miner shared a unique setup on the subreddit r/MoneroMining – a Nintendo Switch being used for mining.
In the picture posted on Reddit, you can see a Monero mining interface running on the 2017 Nintendo console, which was originally meant for playing Super Mario. The Nintendo Switch appears to be producing 230 hashes per second.
This experiment is made possible by RandomX, the Monero mining algorithm, which is designed to be resistant to ASICs. Miners can use CPUs or gaming devices like the Nintendo Switch to run the algorithm and contribute to network security while trying their luck at block discovery.
Is Mining Monero with a Nintendo Switch Profitable?
Unfortunately, this particular mining setup of 230 hashes per second (H/s) is not profitable. According to calculations from MinerStat, considering the power consumption of 6 watts, paying a 1% fee to the mining pool, and an electricity cost of $0.1/kWh, it would take approximately 770 months to mine just 1 XMR with this setup. That’s spending $0.43 per month and around $331 for each Monero mined.
In a similar vein, someone using Steam Deck, a competitor console by Nintendo, reported achieving 700 H/s while mining Monero. However, even this setup is not profitable due to its power consumption ranging between 15-22 watts.
It’s important to note that most Monero miners see mining as an alternative way to acquire XMR and exchange it for fiat currencies rather than a profitable business venture. With cryptocurrency exchanges in regulated countries discontinuing support for Monero, people in these regions turn to mining with devices like the Nintendo Switch or Steam Deck to obtain the privacy coin.
In a similar case earlier this year, a YouTuber used a Nintendo Game Boy to mine Bitcoin. However, the console only generated 0.8 hashes per second.
Hot Take: Monero Mining on Gaming Consoles – A Niche Hobby
Mining cryptocurrencies like Monero on gaming consoles such as the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck has become a niche hobby for enthusiasts. While these setups may not be profitable in terms of traditional mining returns, they offer a unique way for individuals to acquire XMR and support the network’s security. Additionally, with the limited availability of Monero on regulated exchanges, mining becomes an attractive option for those seeking to obtain the privacy coin. So, while it may not be financially rewarding, mining Monero on gaming consoles remains an interesting experiment and alternative means of engaging with the crypto world.
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