Ethereum Classic (ETC) Mining Guide: How to Mine ETC and Is It Profitable?

Ethereum Classic (ETC) is a decentralized, open-source, blockchain-based cryptocurrency that relies on mining. Unlike Bitcoin, ETC mining is more accessible, supporting both GPU and ASIC hardware. But how exactly do you mine ETC? Is it still profitable? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.

What You Need to Mine ETC

Before diving into mining, ensure you have the following essentials:

1. ETC Wallet

A secure wallet is crucial for storing mined ETC. Popular options include:

• Trust Wallet
• Exodus
• Ledger (hardware wallet)
• Trezor (hardware wallet)

👉 Best crypto wallets for ETC

2. Mining Hardware

• GPUs: Nvidia cards (e.g., GTX 1080/1080 Ti) are ideal. AMD GPUs work but are less efficient.
• ASICs: Dedicated miners like Antminer E3 offer higher hash rates.
• RAM: Minimum 4GB (dedicated or system RAM).

3. Mining Software

Choose software compatible with your hardware:

• Ethminer (cross-platform)
• GMiner/NBMiner (Nvidia/AMD support)
• Claymore Dual Miner (supports dual mining)

4. Solo vs. Pool Mining

• Solo Mining: Keep 100% of rewards but requires substantial hash power.
• Pool Mining: Join pools like Ethermine or F2Pool for consistent payouts (minus small fees).

5. Optimization Tips

• Overclocking: Boost GPU clock speeds carefully.
• Cooling: Prevent overheating with proper ventilation.
• Power Efficiency: Balance performance and energy costs.

Step-by-Step ETC Mining Tutorial

Follow these steps to start mining ETC using Nanopool:

1. Download Mining Software:

   • Visit Nanopool.org and select Claymore (for AMD/Nvidia).
   • Extract the .zip file to a folder.

2. Configure the Miner:

   • Edit the start.bat file with your ETC wallet address and pool details.

   • Example:

     EthDcrMiner64.exe -epool etc.ethermine.org:4444 -ewal YOUR_ETC_ADDRESS -epsw x

3. Launch Mining:

   • Double-click start.bat to begin. Monitor shares via the command prompt.

4. Track Earnings:

   • Check your Nanopool dashboard for real-time stats (hashrate, estimated rewards).

Securing Your ETC Rewards

Protect your earnings with these steps:

• Enable 2FA on wallets/exchanges.
• Update Software: Patch vulnerabilities in mining tools.
• Avoid Scams: Use trusted pools and never share private keys.

Advantages of Mining ETC

1. Decentralization: ETC remains true to Ethereum’s original PoW model.
2. Lower Entry Barrier: Affordable GPU setups compared to Bitcoin ASICs.
3. Active Development: Supported by a dedicated community.

What Is Ethereum Classic (ETC)?

ETC is the original Ethereum blockchain that rejected the 2016 DAO hack reversal. Key features:

• Smart Contracts: Enables DApps and token creation.
• PoW Consensus: Unlike ETH 2.0’s PoS, ETC stays mineable.
• Immutable Ledger: Transactions cannot be altered.

FAQ

Q: Is ETC mining still profitable in 2025?
A: Yes, depending on electricity costs and hardware efficiency. Use calculators like WhatToMine for estimates.

Q: Can I mine ETC with a laptop?
A: Not recommended—laptops lack cooling and sustained hash power.

Q: How often do ETC mining pools pay out?
A: Most pools payout thresholds (e.g., 0.1 ETC) are reached daily or weekly.

👉 Explore advanced ETC mining strategies

Final Notes:

• Always research hardware ROI before investing.
• Stay updated on ETC network upgrades for long-term viability.

This guide equips you to mine ETC confidently. Happy mining! 🚀