The Bitmain Antminer B3 is a notable piece of technology within the cryptocurrency mining industry. Released in May 2018, this ASIC miner was designed specifically for mining Bytom (BTM), utilizing the Tensority algorithm. This post will delve into the specifications and performance of the Antminer B3, the criticisms it faced shortly after its release, and the broader context of its impact on the market.

Understanding the Bitmain Antminer B3
The Bitmain Antminer B3 is engineered to provide optimal performance for mining Bytom, a cryptocurrency that employs the Tensority algorithm. With a mining hashrate of approximately 780 H/s and a power consumption of around 360 watts, the B3 offers miners an efficient option when considering energy use and output. Its operational efficiency is roughly calculated at about 0. 46 joules per hash, which is competitive within the realm of ASIC miners.
The miner consists of three boards, each containing multiple chips, totaling a count of twelve chips. This configuration is crucial for maintaining a steady hashrate while balancing energy consumption. The Antminer B3 operates effectively in ambient temperatures ranging from 0 to 40 degrees Celsius and can function under various humidity levels. Priced within the Asian market, primarily in China, there was a strict limit placed on the number of units each customer could purchase, capped at one unit per person, with only 2,500 units made available.
The design of the Antminer B3 includes a typical noise level of around 72 dB, which means it operates at a sound level similar to a vacuum cleaner. This aspect must be considered by users who may be mining in residential areas, where excessive noise could disturb neighbors. The miner is also equipped with a voltage input that ranges from 11. 6 to 13 volts DC, necessitating the use of an external power supply unit, such as the APW3++, to convert AC to DC.
Marketing and Initial Reception
Upon its launch, Bitmain’s marketing strategy for the Antminer B3 emphasized its efficiency and performance tailored specifically for the Bytom currency. As Bytom aimed to facilitate transactions and empower the Internet of Things with a decentralized platform, the Antminer B3 was positioned as the ideal equipment for potential investors and miners interested in this emerging technology.
However, shortly after its release, concerns began to surface among early users. By June 2018, feedback indicated that some customers were disappointed by the miner’s performance and quality control. Many expressed concerns regarding high expectations set by Bitmain’s marketing. The discrepancy between the advertised performance and actual results led to skepticism and criticism from the community, raising questions about the integrity of the promotion and the reliability of the ASIC miner.
One significant facet of the criticism involved the communication from Bitmain. Users felt that the company did not adequately address the concerns raised regarding the product’s performance. Complaints about the product’s lack of efficiency and flawed construction contributed to mistrust in Bitmain’s ability to deliver quality mining hardware. The overall impression was that the company prioritized sales over customer satisfaction, impacting its reputation within the mining community.
The Mining Landscape and the Role of ASICs
To fully understand the impact of the Antminer B3, it is essential to contextualize its role within the broader cryptocurrency mining landscape. The mining of cryptocurrencies involves solving complex mathematical problems in order to validate transactions and maintain the blockchain ledger. As cryptocurrencies gained popularity, mining became increasingly competitive, leading to a demand for efficient hardware.
ASIC miners, like the Antminer B3, were developed specifically to perform the unique mathematical computations required for certain cryptocurrencies. Unlike general-purpose hardware, ASICs are tailored for specific algorithms, allowing them to outperform traditional mining setups, such as those based on graphics processing units (GPUs). The introduction of ASICs represented a monumental shift in the mining landscape, as these devices could provide a significant advantage in efficiency and profitability.
The adoption of ASIC miners has changed the dynamics of cryptocurrency mining. While they offer impressive hashrates, their use has also led to centralization in the mining sector. Miners with access to advanced ASIC technology can dominate over smaller-scale operations, leaving individuals with limited resources at a disadvantage. This centralization can pose risks to the decentralization ethos that many early adopters of cryptocurrencies championed.
Perspectives on Bitmain’s Influence
Bitmain, as a leading ASIC manufacturer, has played a crucial role in shaping the mining hardware industry. Founded by Jihan Wu and Micree Zhan in 2013, Bitmain quickly became a dominant player due to its innovation and scale. The company’s strategic decisions have greatly influenced both the hardware market and the direction of mining operations worldwide.
Despite Bitmain’s achievements, the company has encountered numerous challenges, including intense competition and changing market dynamics. Newer companies have emerged, offering alternatives that could rival or surpass the Antminer B3’s capabilities. The criticisms directed at the B3 highlighted a need for Bitmain to reassess its business model and prioritize quality control. As users demand better support and communication from manufacturers, Bitmain’s dominance might be tested.
Recent Developments and Future Prospects
The landscape of cryptocurrency mining continues to evolve rapidly, with advancements in technology driving changes in hardware and energy efficiency. As of recent years, miners are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact associated with high energy consumption. With the growing scrutiny of cryptocurrency mining’s carbon footprint, manufacturers are compelled to innovate towards greener solutions.
The Antminer B3, while designed to meet specific demands of the Bytom network, is part of a broader technology evolution where efficiency and sustainability are favored. Future generations of ASIC miners will likely need to address these challenges directly. This evolution is necessary not only to meet regulatory compliance and public opinion but also to ensure that mining remains viable in the long term.
In addition to advancements in hardware, the mining community must also consider the implications of evolving algorithms and consensus mechanisms. The cryptocurrency landscape has seen a shift toward protocols that favor proof-of-stake over traditional proof-of-work models, which could further influence mining operations. As a result, ASIC manufacturers must remain adaptable and ready for the next generation of digital currencies and their unique demands.
The Bitmain Antminer B3 serves as a fascinating case study in the complex world of cryptocurrency mining. Despite its initial promise and potential, the miner faced significant criticism from early users regarding its performance and the marketing practices employed by Bitmain. As the mining landscape progresses, equipment like the Antminer B3 embodies both the opportunities and challenges present in the industry.
With environmental concerns and evolving user expectations at the forefront, manufacturers must respond by enhancing product quality and efficiency. As the cryptocurrency market continues to mature, future developments will likely redefine mining practices and player dynamics, necessitating ongoing scrutiny and innovation. The Antminer B3’s journey reflects critical aspects of the cryptocurrency mining experience and sets the stage for continued exploration within this rapidly changing domain.
Summary of the Bitmain Antminer B3 Specifications and Mining Hashrate :
- Hashing algorithm : Bytom Only
- Bytom (BTM) Mining Hashrate : 780 H/s
- Noise level : 72db
- Connection : Ethernet
- Operating Temperature : 40 °C

Power Consumption : 360 Watt / Per Hour.
Power Efficiency : 461.5 j / kh