VPS vs Dedicated for Monero Full Node - Size and Performance Requirements
Monero full nodes have unique infrastructure requirements compared to Bitcoin due to Monero's larger transaction size (ring signatures and range proofs) and different UTXO model. This comparison helps Monero node operators choose the right hosting tier.
Need this done for your project?
We implement, you ship. Async, documented, done in days.
Monero Blockchain Size and Storage
The Monero blockchain is approximately 170 GB as of 2026 with a pruned node option at 40-50 GB. Unlike Bitcoin, Monero transactions are larger due to privacy features (ring signatures, RingCT, Bulletproofs). Storage growth is approximately 20-30 GB per year. A VPS with 200 GB storage is sufficient for a full unpruned Monero node. A pruned node fits comfortably on any VPS with 100 GB storage.
CPU Requirements
Monero's CPU mining algorithm (RandomX) is designed to be CPU-friendly and GPU/ASIC-resistant. Monero node CPU requirements for node operation (not mining) are modest - 1-2 vCPU is sufficient. If you run a Monero node AND CPU mining simultaneously, more cores improve mining efficiency. For node-only operation: VPS with 2 vCPU is appropriate. For combined node + mining: dedicated server with 8+ physical cores is more efficient.
Initial Blockchain Download
Monero IBD (initial blockchain download) is slower than Bitcoin due to larger transactions and cryptographic verification requirements. On a VPS with NVMe storage and 2 vCPU: IBD takes 12-24 hours. On a dedicated server with 8-core CPU and NVMe: IBD takes 4-8 hours. For operators setting up a single node with a one-time sync, the VPS time penalty is acceptable. For operators frequently syncing new nodes (devops workflow), dedicated servers speed up the process.
Related Services
Why Anubiz Host
Ready to get started?
Skip the research. Tell us what you need, and we'll scope it, implement it, and hand it back — fully documented and production-ready.