Bitmain Antminer z15 VS. Z15 pro

 

Head-to-Head: Bitmain Antminer Z15 vs. Z15 Pro

Both the Antminer Z15 and Z15 Pro are Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) miners designed exclusively for the Equihash algorithm, primarily used to mine Zcash (ZEC). The Z15 Pro is the direct successor to the Z15, offering evolutionary improvements. Here’s how they stack up.

Executive Summary

  • Z15: The established, efficient workhorse. Offers the best balance of performance and power efficiency for its generation.

  • Z15 Pro: The raw power champion. Delivers significantly higher hash rate for a moderate increase in power draw, but with slightly lower efficiency. Ideal for operations where sheer output outweighs efficiency concerns.



Detailed Specifications Comparison

FeatureAntminer Z15Antminer Z15 ProWinner / Note
Release Year20202023Z15 Pro (Newer tech)
AlgorithmEquihash (144,5)Equihash (144,5)Tie
Primary CoinZcash (ZEC)Zcash (ZEC)Tie
Hash Rate420 kSol/s420 kSol/sZ15 Pro (60% faster)
Power Consumption1510W ±7%2560W ±5%Z15 (More efficient)
Power Efficiency3.6 J/KSol4.1 J/KSolZ15 (More efficient)
Voltage220-240V200-240VZ15 Pro (Slightly wider range)
Noise Level~75 dB~75 dBTie (Both very loud)
Dimensions (LWH)362mm x 135mm x 247mm330mm x 195mm x 290mmZ15 (Smaller footprint)
Weight12.6 kg14.2 kgZ15 (Lighter)
CoolingDual FansDual FansTie
InterfaceEthernetEthernetTie
Recommended PSU~1600W+~2700W+PSU cost is higher for Z15 Pro

Key Analysis & Which One to Choose

1. Performance & Profitability

  • Z15 Pro is the clear winner in raw output. Its 60% higher hash rate means it can solve more blocks and generate more ZEC per day than the Z15, all else being equal.

  • However, profitability depends on ZEC price, pool luck, and most critically, electricity cost. The Z15's superior efficiency means it can remain profitable at a higher electricity cost than the Z15 Pro.

2. Power Efficiency

  • Z15 is significantly more efficient (3.6 vs. 4.1 J/KSol). For every thousand solutions, it uses less energy.

  • Implication: In regions with high electricity costs ($0.12/kWh and above), the Z15's lower operating cost may make it the more profitable machine over time, even with lower output.

3. Operational Considerations

  • Heat & Infrastructure: The Z15 Pro draws over 1,000W more power. This translates into significantly more heat output. You need robust ventilation, cooling, and electrical circuits capable of handling the higher load.

  • Noise: Both are industrial machines, unsuitable for home mining.

  • PSU & Setup Cost: The Z15 Pro requires a more powerful (and typically more expensive) power supply unit.


Decision Matrix: Which Miner is Right for You?

Choose the Bitmain Antminer Z15 if:

  • Your electricity cost is medium to high (e.g., over $0.10/kWh).

  • Your cooling infrastructure or electrical circuit capacity is limited.

  • You prioritize long-term efficiency and lower operational risk over peak performance.

  • You can find a unit at a significantly lower upfront cost than a Z15 Pro.

Choose the Bitmain Antminer Z15 Pro if:

  • Your electricity cost is very low (e.g., under $0.08/kWh).

  • You have the electrical capacity and cooling to handle the extra 1000+ watts.

  • Your primary goal is maximizing daily coin output and you believe in ZEC's long-term price appreciation.

  • You prefer newer hardware with a longer potential lifespan.

Final Verdict

The Z15 Pro is the more powerful machine and is the definitive choice for miners with access to cheap, abundant power and strong infrastructure. It represents the performance ceiling for Equihash mining with Bitmain hardware.

The Z15 miner remains a highly relevant and potentially more profitable machine for most average miners due to its exceptional efficiency. It is less demanding on infrastructure and provides a safer margin against fluctuating electricity costs and coin prices.

Always calculate current profitability using online calculators (like WhatToMine or ASICminerValue) with your exact electricity rate before purchasing either model.

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