Build a Crypto Mining Rig — Picking the Parts

Building a crypto mining rig is not much different from building a PC.

Before going to detailed list, here are rules of thumbs:

• Pick a motherboard that has enough PCIe slots (e.g. 6 or 8). This will decide the max amount of graphic cards on your rig.
• Don’t save money on PSU (power supply unit).
• Save money on other parts (e.g. CPU, RAM, ssd, etc.), used ones are OK.

Motherboard: MSI-Z390A pro $130

• 6 PCI-e Slots, supporting up to 6 cards (the more the better)
• It supports Intel 8th & 9th gen CPU

CPU: Intel Core i3–9100F $150

• Make sure it is compatible with the motherboard (Tip: check keywords LGA-1151 in the product description)

PSU: EVGA 750W PLATINUM $120

• Note: this is more like a placeholder, pick at your own needs
• PSU is the most important component of your rig, don’t save money on this
• Calculate your power needs (rule of thumb: total power consumption / 0.8)
• For example, if you have 2 * 3080 Ti (TDP 350W), you should consider a 850W or 1000W PSU. (700W / 0.8 -> 875W)
• If needed, your rig can have 2 PSU
• Use Gold or above (power efficiency level: Titanium > Platinum > Gold)

RAM: Crucial RAM 8GB DDR4 $37

SSD: ADATA SU800 128GB $25

Wifi Adapter: TP-Link AC600 USB WiFi Adapter $17

Power Switch: PC Power Cable on/Off Push Button $6

Riser: PCIE Riser 1X to 16X Graphics Extension $36

• You may find cheaper ones on Ebay, NewEgg or Aliexpress

PCIe splitter: 8pin to 2*6pin $15

• You may need this additional PCIe splitter if you have more than one cards and you need longer cable to position the cards

Frame: Steel Open Air Miner Mining Frame Rig $70

• Mining frame is overall overpriced. You can use shoe rack or similar stuff

120mm Fan: 120mm Silent Fan $5