The Z15 Pro speaks Equihash (ZEC and other Equihash coins where supported). “Best pool” listicles that ignore fees, minimum payout, and geography are marketing. Use a scorecard instead.
Scorecard
- Algorithm fit — Equihash stratum for your coin; correct port from their docs.
- Fee — Compare % and any hidden withdrawal costs.
- Payout scheme — PPS, FPPS, PPLNS, etc. Understand variance vs stability.
- Minimum payout & coin — ZEC to your wallet vs auto-convert products.
- Uptime & status page — Prefer pools that publish incidents.
- Latency — Pick a stratum endpoint near your farm when offered.
- Reputation — Longevity and operator transparency over Discord hype.
How we suggest testing
- Run 48–72 hours on pool A, then B, same machine and ambient.
- Compare accepted shares, stale rate, and net coins after fees.
- Keep Pool 2 / Pool 3 as failover to a second reputable stratum.
Setup reminders
Worker name formats differ. Copy from the pool’s Z15 / Equihash guide. After firmware changes, re-paste settings (pool after firmware). Full UI walkthrough: setup guide.
What we will not do
We will not crown a single pool as eternal #1 for SEO. Markets, fees, and reliability shift through 2026. Re-score quarterly. If a pool requires non-Bitmain firmware to “unlock,” treat that as a red flag.
Related: Setup guide · Pool after firmware · All guides