Mining with Antminer S9 ASIC in 2025: Is It Still Profitable?

Bitcoin (BTC) debuted in 2009, when mining was done using processors and GPUs. Fast forward to 2025, and with the increased mining difficulty, these methods are no longer profitable. Now, Bitcoin is mined with ASIC miners, which are far more efficient and cost-effective. One of the most well-known miners is the Antminer S9 by Bitmain. But is it still relevant for mining in 2025? Is it profitable to invest in this equipment today?

Bitmain Antminer S9 Mining Equipment

The original configuration of this ASIC miner was released in 2016, with modifications starting around 2017. Since then, several versions have been released, each offering slight performance improvements or reduced power consumption.

Key Specs

Almost all S9 models come with modified firmware for more precise chip overclocking control. While this can boost performance, improper management may cause errors or damage.

Bitmain has optimized the specs for stable performance, reliability, and longevity, which is why their ASIC miners remain in demand.

Bitcoin Mining on Bitmain Antminer S9: Tips for Better Efficiency

The Antminer S9 series is specifically designed for bitcoin mining, utilizing the SHA-256 algorithm. Considering the cost of the equipment, mining performance, and electricity costs, these ASICs are likely to generate a profit. As long as the price of BTC remains above $60,000 (as of March 20, 2025), using the S9 can still be profitable even with higher electricity costs.

Cryptocurrency mining farms can also benefit from a solar power system. In this setup, most of the mining time is virtually cost-free, which maximizes profits without electricity expenses. This makes the S9 miners particularly profitable when paired with solar energy.

Electricity prices in Russia are significantly lower than the global average. The global average price per kilowatt-hour is around 10 cents, while in Russia, it ranges from 4 to 5 cents for residential customers.

By investing in a solar power system (around $3,000–$4,000 in 2025) and using inexpensive electricity during the night, the S9 can offer above-average profitability.

Best Alternative Coins to Mine with Bitmain Antminer S9 in 2025

The Antminer S9 ASIC is not only suitable for mining BTC but also for a variety of other cryptocurrencies that use the SHA-256 algorithm. Some of the most popular and profitable coins with large market capitalization that can be mined with the Antminer S9 include:

• Bitcoin Cash (BCH)
• Bitcoin SV (BSV)
• Peercoin (PPC)
• Liquid Namecoin (LNC)
• Litecoin Cash (LCC)
• Acoin (XCN)

When Bitcoin (BTC) prices fall, the Antminer S9 can still be profitable by mining these alternative cryptocurrencies with stronger market performance and better prices.

Although ASIC miners like the Antminer S9 can theoretically be adjusted to mine tokens that use different encryption algorithms, this is generally impractical. The mining yield would be very low, and the power consumption would remain high at around 1.3 kW per ASIC.

Bitmain Antminer S9 Mining: Key Features and Performance in 2025

The main features of Bitmain Antminer S9 are as follows:

• 16 nm chip process, which improves efficiency by reducing power consumption and heat generation
• Hashrate – standard models offer 13.5 TH/s, with Hydro versions reaching 16-18 TH/s.
• Liquid cooling (Hydro Models) – enables better heat dissipation and can be used for room heating.
• Open Software – allows for user modifications, potentially boosting performance up to 22 TH/s.

By modern standards Antminer S9 makes no sense to use in solo mining. The probability that any single ASIC will collect a block is extremely low. Therefore, the profitability is provided mostly by connecting ASICs to common pools. In this case, mining will be carried out together with hundreds and thousands of similar devices at the same time. The extracted profit is evenly distributed among all participants based on the estimated performance they provided to the pool. This is the easiest way to make money.

Not all bitcoin mining pools support working with modified versions of Antminer S9. Some will only provide a factory default load of up to 13.5 TH\s. So, the feasibility of re-flashing and overclocking the installed processors is extremely low.

Power Consumption of Bitmain Antminer S9 ASIC: Efficiency and Costs in 2025

All S9 models, except for the Hydro, use between 1150 and 1350 Wh of electricity, similar to a small heater or water boiler. The Hydro model uses more power at 1728 Wh. The energy efficiency of these miners ranges from 0.01 to 0.0125 TH per watt, meaning the higher the number, the more efficient the ASIC is.

The SE and Hydro models are the most profitable in the S9 lineup. They are the most energy-efficient and the latest versions, with factory overclocking and liquid cooling for better performance.

Noise Level of Bitmain Antminer S9 ASICs

When choosing an ASIC for mining, consider noise levels, especially for home use. Air-cooled models generate 75-85 dB, comparable to a vacuum cleaner. In contrast, liquid-cooled Hydro models, like the Antminer S9 Hydro, operate at a quieter 45 dB but require specialized maintenance to ensure longevity.

Power supplies also contribute to noise, often using high-frequency server-grade coolers. While home mining can be profitable, the noise can be disruptive. It's best to place ASICs in a separate, well-ventilated room to minimize discomfort.

Cooling System of Bitmain Antminer S9 Miners

Basic S9 models use two air-cooled fans with automatic speed adjustment, operating between 0-45°C and 5-95% humidity. One fan pulls in air, while the other expels it.

Hydro models replace fans with a liquid cooling system, improving performance and reducing noise but requiring more space and maintenance. A pump circulates coolant, with one external fan cooling the radiator.

For cost-effectiveness, immersive cooling is ideal. Boards are placed in dielectric liquid within a sealed system, extending lifespan, enabling modified firmware, and repurposing heat for home heating.

Building an S9 Mining Farm

If you plan to install several Antminer S9 ASIC miners, setting up a mining farm is the most efficient solution. Here’s a guide to help you set up your own S9 mining farm:

Choose and Allocate a Space

The room you choose for the mining farm should be large enough to accommodate the number of ASIC miners you plan to use. A well-ventilated space, such as a basement or garage, is ideal. Ensure the room has proper ventilation to manage the heat generated by the miners. You may need to install fans or air conditioning systems for optimal cooling.

Calculate Profitability

Use online profitability calculators to estimate your potential earnings from mining. These calculators will consider factors like hash rate, electricity cost, and the current difficulty level in the network. Include costs for electricity, maintenance, cooling, and hardware in your calculations. This will help you understand how much you can expect to earn daily or monthly after expenses.

Purchase Hardware and Power Supply

Depending on your budget and desired performance, buy the required number of Antminer S9 units. Standard models are 13.5 TH/s, but consider higher-performance models if necessary. Each Antminer S9 requires a dedicated power supply unit (PSU). You can choose either individual PSUs for each unit or larger ones that can power multiple miners. Ensure the PSUs meet the power requirements of your ASIC miners. Additionally, purchase adequate power cables and Ethernet cables to connect your devices to the power supply and internet.

Set Up Cooling System

If using the basic air-cooled Antminer S9, place the miners in the room and arrange fans to improve airflow. Proper cooling is critical for preventing overheating and ensuring the longevity of your equipment. If you're using Hydro models with liquid cooling, ensure the space is equipped with an external fan for the radiators and a pump for coolant circulation. The Hydro setup will reduce noise and maintain lower temperatures. For a more advanced and cost-effective cooling solution, consider immersive cooling, which involves placing the ASICs in a dielectric liquid that circulates in a closed system, helping to reduce heat while extending the miners’ lifespan.

Set Up Networking

Ensure a stable and reliable internet connection for each mining rig. Ethernet connections are recommended for better stability and faster data transmission compared to Wi-Fi. Assign static IP addresses to each miner to easily manage them and monitor their status through your local network.

Configure and Overclock ASICs (Optional)

Install mining software and configure each ASIC’s firmware. You can use factory firmware or third-party software that allows for overclocking and tuning of performance. Be cautious, as overclocking can lead to higher power consumption and reduced equipment lifespan. If you plan to overclock your miners for additional performance (up to 22 TH/s), ensure you have proper cooling in place, and monitor the miners closely for stability.

Join a Mining Pool

Solo mining with an Antminer S9 is impractical due to the low probability of finding a block. Join a mining pool to combine resources with other miners and increase your chances of earning rewards. In the mining software, input the pool's URL, your worker details, and other necessary configurations.

When choosing the proper pool for your farm, you should consider:

• Pool fees
• Payout structure
• Pool size – larger pools have more frequent payouts but may have lower rewards per miner, while smaller pools offer higher rewards but less consistent payouts
• Server location – choose a pool with servers close to your location to minimize latency and improve efficiency
• Reputation and reliability
• Payment threshold
• Supported coins – make sure the pool supports the cryptocurrency you’re mining.

For example, EMCD Mining Pool offers fees as low as 1.5%, has daily payouts, and is in the top 10 of world BTC mining pools.

Monitor and Maintain the Farm

Set up a monitoring system to keep track of the status and performance of your mining rigs. You can use built-in tools provided by the mining pool or third-party software to monitor hash rates, temperature, and efficiency. Regularly clean the miners to prevent dust buildup and ensure airflow. Check the cooling system and replace any worn-out parts, like fans or pumps. Schedule maintenance every few weeks to keep everything running smoothly.

Optimize and Scale

After running your farm for a few days, review the performance and profitability data. Adjust settings, including hash rate, power usage, and cooling solutions to maximize efficiency. Once your farm is set up and profitable, consider scaling up by adding more miners or improving your infrastructure to increase your returns.

By following this guide, you can build a successful and profitable mining farm with Antminer S9 units. Keep in mind that the profitability of your mining farm will depend on factors like electricity costs, network difficulty, and the efficiency of your hardware. Regular monitoring and maintenance are essential to keep your farm running smoothly and efficiently.

Bitmain Antminer S9 Profitability and Payback Period

Mining profitability depends on factors like equipment cost, electricity prices, maintenance, and cooling methods.

The Antminer S9 can be profitable when Bitcoin (BTC) is priced between $60,000 and $80,000 or higher. If Bitcoin drops below this range, mining with the S9 may not be worth it.

If you set up the equipment at home and use solar power (about 15 kW on sunny days), profitability can increase significantly, especially if you minimize initial costs.

However, if you're relying on commercial electricity rates, mining with the S9 may not be profitable, as electricity costs could exceed your earnings.

Used Antminer S9 units are available for $30 to $100, though prices can go higher depending on condition. Despite more efficient newer models, the S9 remains popular due to its low cost.

To estimate profitability, use online calculators to consider electricity costs and maintenance, helping you understand potential earnings.

Conclusion: Is Mining with the Antminer S9 ASIC Still Profitable in 2025?

In 2025, the Antminer S9 can still be profitable, but much depends on factors like electricity costs, the price of Bitcoin, and whether you’re utilizing cost-saving strategies like solar power. While it may not be as efficient as newer models, it remains a viable option for those seeking an affordable entry point into mining. With access to cheap or free electricity, miners can still achieve solid returns using the S9.

F.A.Q.

Is the Antminer S9 still profitable for Bitcoin mining in 2025?

Yes, the Antminer S9 can still be profitable in 2025, especially if you have cheap or free electricity, like from solar power. Profitability depends on Bitcoin's price and mining difficulty, but it’s still a solid option if you manage your costs well.

What are the best alternative coins to mine with the Antminer S9?

The Antminer S9 works well with coins that use the SHA-256 algorithm. Some of the best options include Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Bitcoin SV (BSV), Peercoin (PPC), and Litecoin Cash (LCC). These coins are a good fit for the S9 and can be profitable if Bitcoin’s price drops.

How can I increase the profitability of my Antminer S9 mining setup?

To boost profitability, try using cheap electricity like solar power or mining during off-peak hours. Joining a mining pool is also a good idea instead of solo mining. Taking care of cooling, overclocking carefully, and maintaining the miner will help keep it running efficiently.

How long does it take to break even with the Antminer S9?

The time it takes to break even with the Antminer S9 depends on factors like electricity costs, the price of Bitcoin, and how efficiently you’re mining. On average, it can take anywhere from several months to over a year to recover your initial investment. Using low-cost or free electricity can help speed up this process.