Crypto mining has risen in popularity in recent months. This is mainly due to the rising popularity of cryptocurrencies. Most often, mining rigs consisting of several graphics cards are used to mine cryptocurrencies.
But ordinary users also want to cash in on this trend, so they use their gaming computers to mine cryptocurrencies. But is it possible to mine crypto while gaming? If so, how does this affect both your in-game performance and cryptocurrency mining performance?
Whenever you are looking to start mining Bitcoin, Dogecoin, Ethereum, or other altcoins with your gaming computer you are at the right place. In this article, we will talk about the correlation between crypto mining and gaming.
What is a cryptocurrency mining
Cryptocurrency mining is a process by which Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are created and a way new transactions are verified.
Cryptocurrency mining is a crucial part of the cryptocurrency structure. If no one mines Bitcoin or any other altcoin inherently cryptocurrency will lose all its functions.
Thus miners are creating new cryptocurrencies and verifying transactions using their advanced hardware. In exchange, they receive rewards in the form of the cryptocurrencies mined.
Crypto mining is based on the Proof of Work system. In which only the user who solves a given, hardware-intensive “puzzle” receives a reward. Due to the high hardware load that cryptocurrency mining develops, mining is also very energy-intensive. The graph below shows the global energy usage for Bitcoin when the mass use of cryptocurrencies began.
Nowadays, cryptocurrency mining is very easy and can be started by basically anyone and anytime. All you need to do is to download a simple program to your computer and connect to a mining pool. Even on Binance, you can find a mining pool where you can start mining.
Can you play games while mining crypto
Long story short it is not recommended to be mining while gaming. That’s due to the extreme stress you put on your GPU (alternatively on other components as well) while mining.
Essentially while you are mining cryptocurrencies on your computer your GPU runs nearly on 100% power all of the time. Therefore, your graphics do not have enough residual power to allow you to be mining while gaming. Thus your gaming computer will start wearing out even quicker.
And even if you play any game simultaneously while mining, the game wouldn’t even be enjoyable due to the really low frames per second you would probably have.
However, there are certain factors and procedures you can take to be able to mine crypto while gaming.
How to mine crypto while gaming
In order to be able to play and mine crypto simultaneously you will need to adjust the settings of your cryptocurrency miner and in-game settings for each game.
It all depends on both the mining and game goals you want to achieve.
First, lower your mining density down by a few percent. You won’t be able to play any game if your mining process takes all the GPU power.
If mining is your priority then first try to lower all in-game settings as much as possible. If on the other hand, you want to enjoy the game for a few hours a day then try lowering your mining density until the game is playable.
This whole process is trial and error depending on what you want to achieve in terms of both gaming and mining.
However, the most important thing is not to push it too far. Furthermore, you should constantly monitor the PC temperatures if you actually do intend to mine crypto while playing games.
Does crypto mining damage your GPU
The mining process itself does not cause any harm to your GPU and other hardware components. It is the high stress and temperatures that cause your GPU to wear out. So cryptocurrency mining causes harm to your computer but indirectly. It’s the stress that comes with it.
Graphics cards and other components are built to withstand higher temperatures. But not for as long as a few days straight.
Typically, graphics cards have a lifespan of close to ten years. However, when mining cryptocurrencies, the lifespan can be reduced to up to 3 years.
Your mining computer should be at least equipped with powerful fans to ensure proper cooling. Additionally, you should regularly clean any dust from your computer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it might not be a good idea to use your gaming PC for crypto mining if you want it to last. But it is definitely possible to be mining while gaming.
But as said above, nothing should be taken too far. So give your computer a rest once in a while.
It’s probably not even worth risking your expensive computer for a few cents, or at best dollars a day mining cryptocurrencies.