Canaan Inc. has expanded its range of consumer mining hardware with the Avalon Nano 3, launched in the second quarter of 2024. This portable Bitcoin miner is tailored for the growing small-scale home mining trend. Besides efficiently mining Bitcoin, it functions as a compact space heater, combining technology with everyday utility. This review covers its key features, setup process, and mining economics.
Evolution of the Avalon Nano Series
Canaan has a long history of creating innovative and accessible mining hardware. A decade ago, the company released the first Avalon Nano—a compact, single-chip Bitcoin miner aimed at developers and students interested in Bitcoin mining but with limited resources. The original Avalon Nano featured a single A3233 chip, a USB 2.0 interface for power and connectivity, and a hashrate of 3.6 GH/s, making it three to four times more powerful than many GPUs at the time. Its USB drive form factor also acted as a built-in heatsink for effective thermal management.
As the Nano gained popularity, users explored ways to boost its performance. By connecting multiple Nano 1 units via USB hubs, miners could significantly increase their overall hashrate. This led to the development of the Avalon Nano 2, an upgraded version with a sturdier casing and a power output exceeding 5W.
Introducing the Avalon Nano 3
A decade after the Nano 2, Canaan unveiled the Avalon Nano 3. This third-generation home miner marks a substantial leap in hashrate and user experience. Beyond mining, it serves as an energy-efficient space heater, adding versatility to its appeal.
The Nano 3 is available in 23 countries and delivers a hashrate of 4 TH/s. It is powered by 10 integrated ASIC chips and consumes a maximum of 140W. Users can choose from 65W, 100W, or 140W power supplies, allowing them to customize power consumption based on their needs.
The unit we tested included a 140W USB-C power supply unit (PSU) for U.S. households. As a dual-purpose device, the Nano 3 offers cost-effective home mining, with energy expenses partially offset by Bitcoin production.
Setting Up the Avalon Nano 3
Canaan designed the Avalon Nano 3 with user-friendliness in mind, making home mining straightforward. The process involves connecting the power cable, establishing a Wi-Fi connection, and selecting a mining pool. A QR code for pool signup is provided on the device. Users can also choose between high power mode for maximum hashrate or low power mode for quieter operation.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to the setup:
- Plug in the power cable and turn on the Avalon Nano 3.
- Hold the switch button for three seconds.
- Connect your laptop to the Nano 3’s default Wi-Fi hotspot (e.g., "heater_nano_A4F4").
- Enter the default IP address (192.168.168.168) in your web browser.
- Log in with the default username and password (both are "root").
- Configure your Wi-Fi by entering your network SSID and password. Upon successful connection, a new IP address will appear on your browser and the Nano 3.
- Reconnect your laptop to the newly configured Wi-Fi network.
- Enter the new IP address in your browser and log in to the Nano 3 admin panel again using "root" credentials.
For mining configuration:
- Sign up for a mining pool account and create a subaccount name. A QR code for the Luxor pool signup page is available on the back of the device.
- In the Nano 3 interface, go to mining pool settings.
Enter the following details:
- URL:
stratum+tcp://btc.global.luxor.tech:700 - Worker:
LuxorSubaccount.WorkerName(avoid special characters) - Password:
123(avoid special characters)
- URL:
- Click "Save" to reboot the miner and start the mining process.
- Allow 5–10 minutes for your hashrate to appear in your pool account.
By default, the Nano 3 operates in high power mode, producing approximately 50 dB of noise (depending on ambient temperature). For quieter operation, select low power mode in the configuration page.
Performance and Testing
The Luxor team conducted multiple tests to evaluate the Avalon Nano 3’s performance across low, medium, and high power modes. The device can generate warm air at approximately 50°C from the exhaust, making it suitable for supplemental heating in small spaces.
Test results confirm solid performance across all power modes, with hashrate and power consumption varying accordingly. The dual functionality as a heater adds practical value, especially in cooler environments.
Mining Economics
The Avalon Nano 3 offers an accessible and cost-effective entry into Bitcoin mining. While it may not be the most efficient or profitable mining solution on the market, its dual-purpose design and user-friendly interface make it appealing for enthusiasts and beginners.
Key economic considerations include electricity costs, Bitcoin network difficulty, and current cryptocurrency prices. Users should calculate potential returns based on their local energy rates and mining conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hashrate of the Avalon Nano 3?
The Avalon Nano 3 delivers a hashrate of 4 TH/s, making it suitable for small-scale home mining operations. This performance level balances efficiency with manageable power consumption.
Can the Avalon Nano 3 be used as a heater?
Yes, the device doubles as a space heater, emitting warm air at approximately 50°C from the exhaust. This feature makes it useful for supplemental heating in small rooms or workspaces.
How noisy is the Avalon Nano 3 during operation?
In high power mode, the miner produces around 50 dB of noise, similar to a household fan. Low power mode reduces noise for quieter operation, ideal for living areas or offices.
What power supply options are available?
The Nano 3 is compatible with 65W, 100W, and 140W power supplies. Users can select a power mode that aligns with their energy consumption preferences and mining goals.
Is the Avalon Nano 3 profitable for home mining?
Profitability depends on factors like electricity costs, Bitcoin price, and network difficulty. While the Nano 3 is not the most efficient miner, it offers a low-barrier entry into Bitcoin mining with the added benefit of heating.
How do I set up the Avalon Nano 3?
Setup involves connecting to power, configuring Wi-Fi, and selecting a mining pool via the web interface. The process is designed to be user-friendly, with detailed instructions provided in the guide above.
Conclusion
The Avalon Nano 3 represents a significant step forward for home miners and Bitcoin enthusiasts. It provides an accessible and practical way to start mining, lowering the entry barrier for newcomers. Its dual functionality as a heater enhances its value, making it a versatile addition to any home.
For those interested in exploring home mining, the Avalon Nano 3 is a compelling option. 👉 Explore practical mining tools to enhance your setup and strategy. Happy mining!