Top Proof of Work Coins by Market Cap
Proof of work (PoW) coins are cryptocurrencies that secure their networks through mining. Miners run specialized hardware that solves a cryptographic puzzle for each new block. The first miner to find a valid solution adds the next block to the chain and earns a block reward plus the transaction fees. Bitcoin invented this model in 2009 and remains the largest PoW cryptocurrency by market capitalization. Litecoin, Dogecoin, Monero, Bitcoin Cash, Kaspa, and Zcash also use proof of work, each with its own algorithm and design goals. The PoW process makes attacks expensive and gives the coin a predictable issuance schedule. Eligible users can buy Bitcoin (BTC), Litecoin (LTC), and Dogecoin (DOGE) on CEX.IO with a card, SEPA, or other supported payment method. See the full list of proof of work coins below.
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FAQ
What are proof of work coins?
Proof of work coins are cryptocurrencies that use mining to validate transactions. Miners compete to find a valid block by running cryptographic puzzles. The first to solve the puzzle adds the next block and earns a block reward in the network's native coin. Bitcoin (BTC) is the largest proof of work coin by market capitalization.
How does proof of work work?
Proof of work runs as a contest between miners. Each miner hashes block data with a nonce until the result meets the network's difficulty target. The protocol adjusts that target over time to keep the average block time steady. Once a valid hash appears, the miner broadcasts the block to the network, and other nodes verify it before adding it to the chain.
What is the largest proof of work cryptocurrency by market cap?
Bitcoin (BTC) is the largest proof of work cryptocurrency by market capitalization. It uses the SHA-256 hashing algorithm and targets a 10-minute average block time. Eligible users can buy Bitcoin (BTC) on CEX.IO with a card, SEPA transfer, Apple Pay, or another supported payment method.
What is the difference between proof of work and proof of stake?
Proof of work uses hardware and electricity to secure the network. Proof of stake uses locked-up capital. PoW miners earn rewards by solving puzzles. PoS validators earn rewards by signing blocks with their staked coins. PoW chains have higher energy use. PoS chains run on far less energy and often reach faster transaction finality.
Which coins use proof of work?
Bitcoin (BTC), Litecoin (LTC), Dogecoin (DOGE), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Monero (XMR), Ethereum Classic (ETC), Kaspa (KAS), and Zcash (ZEC) all use proof of work. Each chain runs a different mining algorithm. Eligible users can buy Bitcoin (BTC), Litecoin (LTC), and Dogecoin (DOGE) on CEX.IO through Instant Buy or Spot Trading.
Where can I buy proof of work coins?
Eligible users can buy proof of work coins on both centralized and decentralized exchanges. Centralized exchanges, such as CEX.IO, support fiat payments and offer a beginner-friendly interface across desktop and mobile. Decentralized exchanges allow on-chain trades without registration but require an external wallet and more technical setup.
Are proof of work coins available in my country?
The availability of proof of work coins depends on local regulations and CEX.IO's licensing in each region. The platform lists supported assets and payment methods by country on its official site. Each user should confirm the asset's status in their jurisdiction before signing up.
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