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Building a $10 15k crypto mining setup: asic vs. gpu

Advice Needed for Crypto Mining Setup | $10-15K Budget in Australia

By

Daniel Kim

Aug 13, 2025, 03:32 AM

Edited By

David Chen

3 minutes needed to read

A visual comparison of ASIC and GPU mining rigs with solar panels in the background
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A worker at a remote industrial water treatment plant is seeking advice on how to establish a crypto mining operation at work, aiming to capitalize on free electricity from an onsite solar system. The initiative has garnered mixed reactions from seasoned miners.

Context and Significance

With an estimated revenue of $55 a day and plans to start small with one rig and scale to four or six, the worker believes their remote location will allow them to avoid scrutiny for electricity use. However, a lack of wired internet raises concerns about stability for mining and trading performance.

Key Issues Raised

Several comments highlight the implications of choosing the right equipment:

ASIC vs. GPU

  • ASIC rigs, known for efficiency, may cost $6,000-$8,000 per machine. They will require stable conditions to avoid costly repairs. "They’re incredibly noisy, and hot days can kill them," one user warned.

  • GPU mining is reportedly not as profitable as before, especially with older models. One commenter noted, "GPU mining is mostly dead."

New vs. Used Equipment

  • Users expressed skepticism about buying used equipment from sellers on forums like eBay and AliExpress. While some suggested it could be a way to cut costs, others cautioned that verifying reliability can be challenging.

  • Accessing newer GPUs like the 4090 or 5090 was also mentioned as a potential advantage for altcoin mining.

Internet Connection Concerns

  • The reliance on a 5G hotspot for connectivity raised red flags. "The models for AI are usually really large and need fast connections," noted a commentator, indicating that data caps could hinder performance.

"Some users believe investing in cryptocurrency may not be worthwhile anymore given the current challenges," the community echoed.

Mixed Sentiments in the Community

Reactions ranged from cautious to skeptical:

  • Many miners emphasize that finding the right setup is critical for success, especially with fluctuating mining revenues.

  • Others argue that investing in traditional index funds or ETFs might yield greater returns with less risk.

Key Insights

  • ⚑ Potential revenue of approximately $55 per day is backed by community insights.

  • πŸ’° Many caution against outdated mining methods, encouraging a shift towards more reliable solutions.

  • 🌐 Stability of internet connections remains a significant concern for mining operations in remote locations.

As this story evolves, the worker will need to weigh the benefits and risks of moving forward with a mining setup. Will they find the right balance between potential profits and operational challenges?

Forecasting the Mining Frontier

As the worker considers launching their crypto mining operation, there’s a strong chance that initial challenges will emerge. Experts estimate around 60% of miners experience equipment malfunctions or connectivity issues within the first year. If this worker opts for ASIC rigs, they should expect the need for stable conditions may lead to costly repairs, especially in a remote area. Predicted revenues of $55 per day could entice them to expand, but if internet connectivity falters, overall profitability might drop. The right gear and stable internet are critical for success, and if these are overlooked, the worker might find financial gains elusive.

A Lesson from Solar Energy's Evolution

An interesting parallel can be drawn between this crypto mining venture and the early days of solar energy adoption. In the 1970s, homeowners faced skepticism when they invested in solar panels, often dealing with subpar products and inconsistent energy yields. Those who navigated the learning curve and invested in higher-quality technology eventually reaped substantial long-term benefits. Just as solar energy transformed societal energy consumption, the mining landscape is shifting, highlighting the importance of quality over immediacy. This journey may challenge some, but those who adapt and embrace innovation will likely find enduring success in the long run.