The Hype Has Faded, but Opportunities Remain in Helium’s New Two-Token Structure
The once-booming era of Helium hotspots generating substantial monthly earnings is largely a thing of the past. As the network has matured, the emphasis has shifted from mere luck to strategic thinking for profitability. Although individual devices may no longer yield life-changing amounts, effectively managed hotspots can still provide a reasonable, albeit diminished, stream of cryptocurrency rewards. Before diving into potential earnings, however, it’s crucial to understand the recent modifications made to Helium’s rewards framework.
Understanding Helium’s Rewards Changes
With the implementation of Helium Improvement Plan #138, earlier subnetwork tokens associated with the Internet of Things (IoT) and mobile connectivity have been discontinued in favor of HNT, Helium’s primary token. This adjustment aims to streamline the rewards system across the network for greater efficiency.
Examining Potential Earnings
Determining an “average” income from Helium hotspots can be challenging due to varying factors like location and equipment. However, analyzing blockchain data and user reports allows us to gauge possible earnings. For those operating IoT rigs, daily earnings now typically range from a few cents to a maximum of $1.50. This translates to a monthly income of approximately $3 to $45, with many operators in early 2025 reporting earnings between $4 and $8 per month. Conversely, hotspots situated in crowded areas or poor locations yield significantly lower returns.
5G Hotspots: Higher Stakes, Higher Rewards
The investment in 5G technology presents a different scenario, as initial hardware costs are considerably higher, yet the potential returns can also be more favorable. Unlike IoT hotspots, which depend on proximity to other devices, 5G hotspots profit from the volume of data usage. In urban settings or Helium’s designated “boosted” zones, earnings can exceed $50 monthly, making strategic placement paramount.
Factors Influencing Earnings
Several controllable elements significantly impact Helium earnings. Firstly, the fluctuating price of HNT directly affects earnings, as the token’s value can vary widely. Predictions for 2025 suggest a range of potential prices, from a conservative $2.38 to a more optimistic $12.95. This volatility represents both a risk and an allure for Helium miners.
Location and Coverage Considerations
For operators of IoT hotspots, strategic placement is crucial for maximizing rewards. The network incentivizes users to demonstrate coverage by positioning hotspots with unobstructed views to witness neighboring devices. However, if too many hotspots crowd a hexagon on the Helium map, the rewards diminish. In contrast, 5G hotspots benefit from being located in high-traffic areas, where they can generate income through data offloading.
Enhancing Your Setup
To optimize performance, elevating the antenna is essential. While the standard antenna included with the device is adequate, investing in a high-gain antenna mounted externally can dramatically improve connectivity with other hotspots. Additionally, using quality cables and ensuring a stable internet connection is vital, as downtime can lead to lost revenue.
Upcoming Halving and Its Implications
In line with Bitcoin’s protocol, Helium has also scheduled “halvings” to regulate the creation of new coins. The latest halving occurred on August 1, 2025, reducing the annual production of new HNT from 15 million to 7.5 million. This reduction directly impacts rewards for providing coverage, with the intent of increasing HNT’s value over time. Notably, rewards linked to actual data usage remain unaffected, underscoring Helium’s commitment to being a functional network rather than a mere mining operation.
Start-Up Costs for New Operators
The initial investment for setting up a Helium hotspot can vary significantly, ranging from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand. New IoT hotspots are priced between $200 and $500, while outdoor antennas and other accessories can add an additional $40 to $100. Fortunately, hotspots have a minimal electricity consumption of about 5 watts, leading to negligible power costs.
Competition and Real-World Applications
Helium faces increasing competition from major entities like Amazon Sidewalk, as well as emerging crypto projects, making the landscape more competitive. Furthermore, regulatory developments, such as the FIT21 Act in the U.S., aim to establish clearer guidelines for digital tokens, potentially benefiting projects like Helium that have tangible use cases. Despite the growing noise, many businesses are capitalizing on the Helium network for various applications, including asset tracking and environmental monitoring through partnerships with renowned IoT companies.
Assessing the Viability of Helium in 2025
As of 2025, operating a Helium hotspot is no longer viewed as a quick path to wealth. Rather, it resembles running a small business where success hinges on diligent research, strategic location selection, and investment in quality equipment. Profitability is achievable for those who meticulously manage aspects such as antenna elevation, token prices, and network density. For those willing to engage in this effort, Helium continues to represent an intriguing opportunity to invest in and contribute to the infrastructure of the decentralized web.
