Top 5 CPUs Ideal for Cryptocurrency Mining in the Year 2020

In the world of cryptocurrency mining, finding the right equipment is essential. For those just starting out, a good, productive CPU and suitable cryptocurrency could be the perfect starting point. Let's take a look at some options from AMD and Intel and see how they stack up.

First up, the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X. This CPU boasts 6 cores and 12 threads, making it a solid choice for beginners. With a base clock of 3.6 GHz and a boost clock of 4.0 GHz, it offers decent performance. The Ryzen 5 1600X is compatible with a variety of cryptocurrencies, including Monero, Epic Cash, Electronium, Ravencoin, and ZCash.

On the other hand, AMD's Threadripper series offers even more power. The Threadripper 1950X, for instance, boasts 16 cores, 32 threads, and a 32 Mb L3 cache. This CPU is a powerhouse for mining and is also compatible with the aforementioned cryptocurrencies. If you're looking for a less powerful but still effective option, the Threadripper 1920X, with 12 cores and 24 threads, might be a better fit.

Now, let's shift our focus to Intel. The Intel Core i5-7600K is a more affordable option, costing almost 3 times less than the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X. It has 4 cores and 4 threads, a base clock of 3.8 GHz, and a boost clock of 4.2 GHz. The Core i5-7600K is also compatible with the same range of cryptocurrencies as its AMD counterparts.

If you're looking for something more powerful from Intel, the Core i7-9700K might be the answer. With 8 cores, 8 threads, a base clock of 3.6 GHz, and a boost clock of 4.9 GHz, it's a formidable CPU. However, it comes at a higher price point and is more expensive than the Core i5-7600K.

It's worth noting that in 2020, the best CPUs for mining were generally not CPUs but rather specialized ASIC miners, especially for Bitcoin mining. Companies like Bitmain dominated this market with their Antminer series, which significantly outperformed CPUs for mining efficiency and profitability.

When it comes to mining cryptocurrency, CPU mining is a cost-efficient method. However, GPU mining is faster and more productive, but video cards are more expensive and consume more power. Some altcoins have become more CPU-friendly, and some even forbid the use of multiple rigs to give novices a chance to mine.

In conclusion, whether you choose AMD or Intel, there are options available for those looking to enter the mining scene. The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and Intel Core i5-7600K are both solid choices for beginners, while the AMD Threadripper series and Intel Core i7-9700K offer more power for those willing to invest more. Always remember to do your research and consider the cost, power consumption, and compatibility with the cryptocurrency you plan to mine.

Central Processing Unit (CPU) is a part of a computer that allocates and uses resources to perform tasks. By choosing the right CPU and cryptocurrency, you can start your mining journey on the right foot. Happy mining!