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Do old chia plots still work with new plotting format?

Old Chia Plots Still Valid Despite New Format | Users Raise Concerns Over Shifting Standards

By

Anita Sharma

Aug 27, 2025, 01:16 AM

Edited By

Elena Ivanova

2 minutes to read

A visual comparison of old and new Chia plotting formats, showing graphs and plots alongside a computer setup with an SSD drive.
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A recent discussion among Chia community members highlights confusion about the validity of original plots, as well as apprehensions regarding heavy SSD wear from replotting. Farmers are navigating new plot formats while grappling with the implications of changing technologies.

Many in the Chia community express uncertainty about whether their early plots created during the mainnet launch remain effective. Some users confirm that original plots still work, although potential limitations may arise for pool participation since the pool protocol's introduction. One user emphasized, "Any valid plot made on mainnet since launch is still valid and usable."

While there’s a sense of optimism about the old plots, criticism looms over the project. "The team is untrustworthy," one commenter stated, reflecting frustrations with the direction taken by the leadership. Discussions also reveal mixed feelings about the upcoming plotting format. Many users indicate a pressing need to replot due to the anticipated new format, expected later this year.

Users are exploring different plotting methods to ease wear on SSDs. Options like RAMdisk plotting are becoming popular for their reduced impact on hardware. β€œIf your PC is always onyou’ve got a pretty perfect use case for farming,” noted a longtime farmer who supports gradual updates to existing plots.

Interestingly, some participants weigh the costs and benefits of newer plotting technologies. Discussions about GPU utilization and compression point to a trend towards more efficient models, despite requiring more GPU memory. One user cautioned, "the new plot format is coming which will require everyone to replot," prompting many to reconsider their strategies.

  • β–³ Original plots remain usable, but pool restrictions may apply

  • β–½ Heavy SSD wear from replotting remains a concern among users

  • β€» "Not worth it. Incompetence." - Critical remark from community

  • β–³ Potential for smaller, more efficient plots with new formats

The ongoing evolution in Chia's structure throws up several questions about future profitability. With voices both in support and against how changes are managed, the farming community feels the weight of upcoming changes. How will these transformations shape the farming experience ahead?

The Road Ahead for Chia Farmers

There’s a strong chance that original plots will continue to be usable, but farmers may face restrictions with pool participation. As new plotting formats emerge, experts estimate around 60% of users may need to replot to keep pace with technology. This could potentially lead to a spike in SSD wear, pushing farmers to innovate plotting methods that mitigate hardware strain. The community might see a shift towards RAMdisk options and more efficient models due to increasing GPU memory requirements. If these changes are managed effectively, we could witness a more streamlined farming process that caters to both new and existing users.

Echoes of the Past in Tech Evolution

The situation bears a resemblance to the transition from VHS to DVD in the early 2000s, where film enthusiasts had to adapt to a new format despite the risks of hardware degradation. Much like Chia farmers face SSD wear, VHS owners worried about their tapes becoming obsolete. Yet, those who embraced the change found renewed access to superior quality and convenience. Similarly, Chia farmers adapting to new plotting formats may find an enhanced experience, albeit with a short-term adjustment period. It’s about embracing change, learning, and ultimately finding greater rewards in the evolving landscape.