Glossary
CPU (Central Processing Unit)
16/04/2026
A CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the main processor in a computer, designed to handle a wide variety of sequential tasks. CPUs execute the operating system, applications, and general computations.
CPU mining
CPUs can mine cryptocurrencies, but are generally outcompeted by GPUs and ASICs due to lower parallelism. However, some coins are specifically designed to be CPU-friendly:
- Monero (XMR) — uses the RandomX algorithm, which is deliberately optimized for CPUs and resistant to ASICs
- Verus — CpuID algorithm
- Zephyr (ZEPH) — RandomX-based
For these coins, a modern multi-core CPU (especially high-core-count server CPUs) can be competitive.
CPU vs GPU vs ASIC
| CPU | GPU | ASIC | |
|---|---|---|---|
| General purpose | Yes | Partial | No |
| Mining efficiency | Low | Medium–High | Highest |
| Supported algorithms | CPU-friendly only | Many | Specific |
| Power draw | Low–Medium | Medium–High | High |
CPU mining on Kryptex
Kryptex supports CPU mining for Monero (XMR) and other RandomX-based coins.
