Solar Miner Debate | Users Question Profitability of Antminer S21
Edited By
Samantha Reyes
A growing debate surrounds the profitability of the Antminer S21 among crypto enthusiasts, with voices questioning its viability given rising energy costs and mining efficiency. Users are expressing frustration over the equipment’s long return on investment, especially those tapping into solar energy for power.
Solar Energy: A Double-Edged Sword
Many people are finding themselves in a tricky spot when it comes to the S21, which costs around $4,000. A user noted that despite having surplus solar energy, it still takes an impractical 1,000 days to cover the cost if run partially — implying that even with "free" energy, profitability is uncertain. They pointed out that the miner only yields roughly $16 per day, raising questions about future earnings in four or five months.
"The sun don’t work like that," one frustrated user stated, emphasizing the inconsistency of solar power.
Alternative Options Under Scrutiny
Other users are recommending older models like the A2 and S19 Pro rigs, which reportedly have higher return rates. Comments suggest:
The Antminer S21's development by Bitmain raises concerns, as some believe it’s pushing subpar products into the market.
People are opting for cheaper models that might break even faster.
Interestingly, one community member claimed their sales manager runs a cheaper model at 1800 watts each, maximizing efficiency with proper configurations.
Sentiment on Mining Equipment
While some voices remain optimistic, many responses indicate skepticism regarding the S21’s future profitability and repair capabilities. One comment stated:
"Bitmain is just trashing the S21+ boards instead of repairs."
Users are concerned that rising energy costs and equipment dependence on sunlight make the S21 a high-risk investment.
Key Takeaways
🔹 $4,000 cost for Antminer S21 vs. $16 daily earnings raises eyebrows.
🔹 "Older stuff breaks even faster," users advise instead of new models.
🔹 Concerns about manufacturer practices impact purchasing decisions.
But the burning question remains: Are newer mining models genuinely the future, or are they just a fad in a fast-evolving market?
What Lies Ahead for the S21 Antminer?
There’s a strong chance we’ll see shifts in the crypto mining landscape as energy prices continue to rise. Experts estimate around 60% of current owners might pivot to older, more reliable models in the next year, driven by mixed performances like that of the S21. Many are wary of investing in newer models if profitability doesn't improve. If energy costs remain high, which is likely, the S21 could struggle to find its footing, leaving a gap for budget-friendly alternatives that yield faster returns. The pressure is mounting on manufacturers to deliver practical products that meet users’ needs rather than pushing low-performing models onto the market.
Echoes from the Grain Harvest
Consider the case of grain farmers in the late 1800s, who faced rapid changes due to industrial advancements. As new, high-capacity harvesting machines appeared, many farmers initially invested heavily without understanding the impacts of fluctuating crop prices and growing competition. Much like today’s miners confronting pricey hardware against unpredictable energy costs, those farmers had to adapt swiftly or risk falling into bankruptcy. The aftermath saw a consolidation in farming practices that prioritized sustainability and efficiency. This parallel serves as a reminder: whether in agriculture or crypto mining, adapting and learning from market realities often wins out over chasing the latest trends.