What a miner actually does
A Bitcoin miner repeatedly hashes candidate block headers to look for a result below the network target. Finding a valid result is probabilistic. Owning a faster machine increases the number of attempts; it does not promise a block on a timetable. Network nodes still validate the result.
Why miners join a pool
A pool coordinates work and accounts for contributed shares. Its settlement rules determine how participants are paid. Compare the supported chain, reward method, fees and payout conditions before connecting. A pool balance and a wallet balance are different things.
Separate production from profit
Electricity is only one operating cost. Pool fees, cooling auxiliaries, downtime, repairs and hosting charges can also affect cash flow. The calculator below isolates the electricity line so you can understand the input before using a full profitability tool.
Change one input. See the difference.
Illustrative inputs, not a hardware quote or an income forecast. Add auxiliary equipment separately.
Go back to the source.
Bitcoin Developer Guide · Mining ↗Bitcoin.org · Frequently asked questions ↗Editorial source review: 2026-09-08. Refer to the exact model manual and current source terms.