Antminer S21 vs S21 Hydro vs S23: Which SHA-256 ASIC should I choose in 2025-2026?

Between the maturity of the range Antminer S21the option Hydro ultra-stable and the new generation S23 (2026), the choice of the ideal Bitcoin ASIC depends on three factors: efficiency (J/TH), gross power (TH/s) And infrastructure constraints (cooling, noise, electricity). Here is the Minent.fr comparison, based on recent public specifications.

Quick comparison (key specifications)

Indicative values (±3–5%); may vary depending on batches, firmware and operating conditions.

Antminer S21 (Air): simplicity and efficiency that hit the mark

THE S21,216 TH/s is the sure bet for quickly deploying capacity SHA-256 efficient without liquid infrastructure: standard connection (200–240 V AC), simple maintenance and efficiency around 16.5 J/THIdeal if you already have a ventilated room and want an excellent ratio power/consumption has CAPEX reasonable.

• Key features: competitive yield/day, availability, express start-up.
• Things to watch out for: noise (~75 dB) and airflow management (dust, filters, extraction).

Antminer S21 Hydro: silence, stable temperature, longevity

THE S21 Hydro 358 TH/s is aimed at sites that target the density and the low noiseLiquid cooling reduces temperature variations, dust, and blower stresses, while maintaining a efficiency ≈ 15 J/TH under controlled conditions. Perfect for dense racks and 24/7 operation with less maintenance.

• Key features: reduced noise (<50 dB depending on integration), homogeneous temperatures, stability.
• Expected costs: additional infrastructure (pumps, heat exchanger, fluid) and integration expertise.

Antminer S23 (2026 generation): TH/s and new wave efficiency

THE S23,318 TH/s marks the entry of the 2026 generation. The first public profiles point to ~3498 W For 318 TH/s, i.e., a theoretical efficiency close to ~11 J/THIn practice, allow for a margin related to firmware and the environment (temperature, power supply quality, pool). The benefit: a very high TH/s density low consumption, ideal for quickly expanding a farm.

• Strengths: High TH/s, moderate "wall" consumption, recent generation (2026).
• Points to consider: availability by batch, launch price, field validations to follow.

Which model should you choose based on your context?

Budget & mise en service rapide

S21 (Air) the best compromise efficiency / cost / simplicity if you already have ventilation and extraction.

Silence, density and lifespan

S21 Hydro : to reduce noise, smooth out temperatures and increase the density of your racks. Useful if you standardize your rooms with humidity/immersion cooling.

Power ramp-up 2026

S23 : to target high TH/s with low power consumption of next generation; to be considered for capacity extensions and a 2026+ window.

Best practices (regardless of the model)

• Food : dedicated line, compliant gauge/section, surge protector/UPS if possible.
• Thermal : net airflow (Air) or well-sized loop (Hydro), temperature monitoring.
• Firmware & pool : keep the firmwares stable, choose a reliable pool (PPS/PPLNS) and monitor the acceptance rate.
• Consumption tracking : measure on the wall (W) and calculate your J/TH actual.

Conclusion Minent.fr

For most sites, the S21 (Air, 216 TH/s) The 2025 "sweet spot" remains in terms of yield and simplicity. Advanced farms are opting for the S21 Hydro for density, silence, and stability. The S23 (318 TH/s) looks like a very interesting 2026 building block for increasing TH/s with controlled consumption: keep an eye on the next batches and field feedback.