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Evaluating p2pool nano and merge mining pools for rewards

Crypto Pools Debate | P2pool Nano vs Larger Alternatives and Merge Mining Options

By

Dylan Harris

Jun 13, 2025, 06:42 PM

3 minutes needed to read

A graphic showing the differences between P2pool Nano, larger mining pools, and merge mining options for cryptocurrency rewards.
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A significant discussion is brewing among crypto miners regarding the viability of P2pool Nano, larger sidechains, and options that support merge mining. As miners weigh their options, the consensus seems to hint at a search for consistent rewards amid an uncertain landscape.

Context and Current State

Recently, a miner shared their experience of running a machine with a hash rate of 10 Kh/s, expressing frustration after an extended dry spell of rewards. The situation prompted them to analyze the potential payouts from various mining pools.

Pool Performance Comparisons

Steps taken included assessments of:

  1. Staying with P2pool Nano: With a reported hash rate of 1.4 Mh/s, payouts arrive about every 4.8 days, based on the global hash rate.

  2. Moving to a Larger Pool: While larger pools promise more consistent payouts, the rewards tend to be lower. This route would offer smoother returns over time.

  3. Exploring Merge Mining Options: Options like MoneroOcean show promise, offering payouts roughly every 4.8 days with over 200 Mh/s of hash power. However, some miners express concerns over network hash distribution.

Insights from the Community

Feedback from multiple forums reveals an interesting mix of strategies and concerns:

  • One user suggested switching to a mini pool, specifically to merge mine Tari alongside Monero. This could enhance earnings for those with compatible setups.

  • Another noted the difficulties in setting up Tari nodes, citing bandwidth and stability issues. This raises questions about ease of entry into merge mining.

  • An overall sentiment in the community leans toward patience, with several asserting that payouts will equalize in the long run regardless of pool size.

Analyst Comments

"You’re contributing more to the health of the Monero network by sticking with smaller pools," emphasized a community member.

Interestingly, many seem to value consistent mining rewards over higher but sporadic payouts. Another comment read, "If you want the maximum payout in XMR, I’d recommend MoneroOcean!"

Key Points to Note

  • πŸ”„ Users emphasize the importance of mining for network health.

  • βš–οΈ Bigger pools stabilize payouts but reduce individual rewards.

  • πŸ”— Merge mining options are becoming increasingly popular but come with setup challenges.

As the mining community continues to navigate these choices, a clear trend is emerging: the complexity of securing steady rewards reigns supreme in the minds of crypto enthusiasts. Will the future see more miners embracing merge mining or seeking stability with traditional pools? Only time will tell.

What’s on the Horizon for Crypto Mining?

There’s a strong chance that more miners will lean toward merge mining options as they seek to boost their payouts amid fluctuating rewards. Industry experts estimate around 60% of the mining community could shift focus toward smaller pools and merge mining setups in the next year, driven by the appeal of consistent payouts and increased network support. Additionally, as guides and community resources improve, expect a drop in the technical barriers that have kept some miners away from these alternatives. Larger pools may still capture a significant portion of miners, but preferences might evolve as the benefits of network health become clearer.

Historical Echoes in Evolving Networks

Reflecting on the tech boom of the late 1990s, many startups favored traditional models over innovative concepts like open-source software. Just as those who embraced the unconventional reaped the rewards, today's miners face a similar choice. The decision to move toward merge mining mirrors that historic trend of early tech adopters who saw potential where others hesitated. As crypto mining evolves, the collective memory of past shifts in technology adoption serves as a reminder of the rewards available to those willing to explore new paths.