Mining algorithm
A mining algorithm is the calculation rule a cryptocurrency imposes on its miners, such as SHA-256 for Bitcoin or Scrypt for Litecoin.
Every proof-of-work cryptocurrency defines the calculation rule that miners must apply to produce a valid block: this is its mining algorithm. It relies on a specific hash function. Bitcoin uses SHA-256, Litecoin and Dogecoin use Scrypt, Kaspa uses kHeavyHash, Alephium Blake3, Zcash Equihash, Nervos Eaglesong and Ethereum Classic Etchash.
Algorithms do not all have the same requirements. Some mainly demand raw computing power, others memory, which explains why their units differ. Above all, an ASIC chip is etched for a single algorithm. The choice of algorithm therefore determines the machine, and vice versa: all the coins that share an algorithm can be mined with the same hardware, which sometimes lets you switch coins without switching machines.
On a product page, the algorithm is listed at the top of the specifications. Before buying, ask yourself which coin you want to mine, whether it is staying on proof of work, and how many other coins use the same algorithm. An algorithm shared by several projects, such as SHA-256 or Scrypt, offers more flexibility than one reserved for a single small coin, whose future is less certain.
In our shop, ASICs are also grouped by mined coin to help you find the right machine for the algorithm you are interested in.