The TTBit SHA256 Stick Miner

Specs:

• Algorithm: SHA256 (Coins Mined: Bitcoin, BitcoinCash, Peercoin, etc.)
• Hashrate: 10 - 15GH/s (Can be clocked higher with a powered USB port)
• Chip: 2 x 28nm Bitmain BM1384 chips
• Power use: About 5-7 watts

The Review:

The TTBit SHA256 Stick Miner is a 2-chipped USB miner with a built-in fan and heatsink. This device is very easy to set up and use, uses very little power, and does not require additional fans. However, compared to other miners such as TTBit's own L1 SCRYPT USB miner and FutureBit's Moonlander 2 miner, this fan is a bit louder, and gets a bit warmer due to its plastic case. Note that this miner cannot easily be plugged into many computers due to the bulk of the device, and may block neighboring USB ports. The TTBit SHA256 Stick Miner can be run on Windows, Linux, and Mac, and even on a Raspberry Pi, although I have never personally tried. 

While the device costs next to nothing to run, the TTBit SHA256 Stick Miner features only two of Bitmain's 28nm BM1384 chips, which are the same as Bitmain's Antminer S5 rig. At 10-15GH/s, the miner has nowhere near the computing power of a modern miner such as the Bitmain Antminer S17+, which boasts an impressive 70TH/s (In other words, 70,000 GH/s).  Hence, the device can barely make two cents per week if the user does not need to pay pool fees or electricity fees. As of now, the device is likely out of production, but can still readily be found on eBay or other online retailers. 

When I purchased two of these device in late 2018, I paid about $20.00 US per device directly from TTBit. As of writing this article, online retailers such as Eyeboot sells the TTBit SHA256 Stick Miner for $36.50. Though not expensive, this miner is not recommended to those trying to turn a profit in mining. However, this miner makes a good educational stepping stone into the world of mining, and is also a good gift idea for crypto enthusiasts. 

Disclaimer:

I am not in any way affiliated with TTBit, Bitmain, or any other crypto/crypto-related company. I personally have two of these TTBit SHA256 miners purchased in late 2018. Today, these miners are both functioning, and running at about 12GH/s alongside several Gekkoscience 2PAC miners on a powered external USB hub. I also have several small USB fans to circulating the air around the miners. 

Remember, investments in cryptocurrencies are like any other investment: Invest only what you can afford to lose. No investment is a guarantee.