Aside from the impact on GPU supply for PC gamers and its environmental impact, one accusation aimed at cryptocurrency mining is that it harms your graphics card and wears it out quickly.
Whether you're mining for Dogecoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, or Monero, these are considerations you need to take into account.
But does this statement have any truth behind it, or is it just a crypto-myth?
Is cryptocurrency mining bad for your graphics card?
The answer isn’t so simple.
Mining harms your GPU in the sense that one of its by-products is producing excess heat. If you run your mining setup 24/7 at a high temperature – above 80oC or 90oC - the GPU could sustain damage that will severely affect its lifespan. But crypto mining doesnt necsssarily damage your GPU. On an average, a mining GPU has a lifespan of 3-5 years before it can be replaced with a new one,but iy does add pressure on your GPU with consistent usage.
However, mining is not alone in placing stress onto a GPU. Playing demanding games and processing data using a GPU can also wear out a GPU when at high temperatures. Similarly, overclocking your GPU too often – whether for better hash rates or better gaming performance – can also cause irredeemable damage to the GPU.
In addition to this, it would'nt be profitable to mine cryptocurrency considering thr recent crypto crash as it wont fetch decent crypto rewards for miners.
In fact, some cryptocurrency miners even suggest mining is less harmful to your graphics card than playing the latest AAA game is. As miners seek to reach the highest possible hash rate, the GPU may reach high temperatures but will remain at a consistent one with a consistent workload. In contrast, as playing games see the GPU fluctuate between rapid cooling and rapid heating depending on the load, this could cause more damage in the long run.
However, the major cause of damage to a graphics card – whether used for gaming or mining – is not taking proper care of the hardware components.
Moreover, there are plenty of articles on social media claiming that free crypto mining sources are better than GPU mining,however users are advissed to be wary of such rumors as they are likely to be scam trying to lure users to extract money out of them.
- Read More: Bitcoin Mining Difficulty: What Is It?
GPU Lifespan For Crypto Mining
Sturdy GPUs tend to prolong the life of a computer enabling users to mine cryptocurrency for a longer time.
Several sources point toward an average lifespan of 3-5 years for a normal GPU to continue with regular trading mechanisms.
When a user performs light crypto activity in terms of mining, these GPUs can last up to 10 years.
How to take care of your graphics card for mining
Nothing lasts forever (aside from GTA V), and you will eventually need to upgrade your GPU. Luckily, both AMD and NVIDIA keep releasing brand-new GPUs for you to choose from, so long as scalpers don't beat you to it
The best thing you can do to prolong your GPU’s lifespan (whether for gaming or mining) is to ensure its heating and cooling systems work as optimally as possible.
This includes:
- Cleaning out your GPU fans so they can rotate properly, or replacing them if necessary;
- Ensuring your drivers are up-to-date;
- Keep your GPU well-ventilated and clean with strong airflow, to prevent overheating;
- If you have a larger mining rig with multiple cards, ensure each card has enough space for its own airflow;
Read More: How Long Does It Take To Mine 1 Bitcoin?