The Scrypt hardware market in early 2026 offers more choice above the 0.05 GH/s threshold than at any point since 2022. That abundance makes selection harder, not easier. Here is how we advise clients to narrow the field.
Start With Your Power Rate
Before comparing unit specifications, calculate your effective electricity cost per kilowatt-hour including demand charges. A unit rated at 0.22 W/MH operating at ₩95/kWh produces a very different margin than the same unit at ₩130/kWh during KEPCO summer peak blocks. Write down your worst-case rate, not your average.
Compare W/MH, Not Sticker Hashrate
Manufacturer hashrate figures assume ideal conditions. Our bench data consistently shows 3–8% variance on well-maintained units and up to 15% on used hardware with degraded thermal paste. The W/MH column in our Hashrate Guide reflects real 24-hour averages and is a better predictor of operating cost than peak hashrate claims.
Verify Before You Wire
For used units, require either a Websycamoreway assessment report or equivalent bench data from a neutral third party. Seller-provided screenshots of pool dashboards prove nothing about sustained performance. If the seller refuses inspection, treat that as information.
Firmware Matters More Than Brand
Two identical Antminer L7 units on different firmware versions can diverge by 6% in stable hashrate after twelve hours. Ask for the exact firmware hash and cross-reference against known stable releases in our field notes archive. Avoid units running unidentified custom firmware unless you accept bricking risk.
Physical Inspection Checklist
Check heatsink contact, fan bearing noise, and power supply label authenticity on arrival. Scrypt units draw sustained high current — a failing fan or degraded thermal paste shows up within the first six hours of a proper bench run, which is why we never recommend skipping the overnight cycle.