Why DePIN Networks Are Proven To Work For Long-Term Investors
DePIN might be a relatively new concept; however, projects such as Honeygain have been using it in WEB2 for years. Now it’s WEB3’s turn. DePIN has proven itself as a means of generating additional income. In most cases, what is being earned is relatively moderate. However, as with any idea that harnesses the network effect, it can be scaled, and that’s where I think many miss the true potential of DePIN.
Grass has proven itself to be a relatively reliable earner. However, we have only had one airdrop, and the next is just around the corner. Unfortunately, the altcoin market is bleeding. However, staking your GRASS tokens has proven quite viable, at least until prices improve later this year.
The best way to scale your DePIN node infrastructure is through affiliate models. This is how DePIN opportunities become lucrative. However, I had a very small network at the time of the first airdrop and still managed to secure a $600 airdrop. This prompts me to consider its long-term potential and whether it can continue to provide meaningful returns.
How To Build A DePIN Network And Earn Crypto Rewards
If I remember correctly, the initial airdrop consisted of nine epochs, which means that on average, my Grass endeavor produced more than $60 per month. It’s important to remember that my network at that time consisted of only a handful of nodes. What I am interested in discovering in the next airdrop is whether or not the tokens will be much lower per epoch.
I am not too concerned with the dollar valuation because I understand we are in a bear market. In many instances, dedicated devices that operate 24/7 solely to run DePIN applications are advisable. This is where I repurpose old laptops into nodes. Essentially, Grass is busy being tested regarding its long-term profitability. However, what about new DePINs? What are some good DePINs for 2026?
A Look at Peaq: One of the Most Promising DePIN Projects In Crypto
I have often spoken of Peaq and many of the projects within the ecosystem. There are two relatively new DePINs that I addressed last year that could be potential winners in 2026 and 2027. The first being Teneo, which is primarily focused on extracting social media data. It’s great to see this happening on WEB3, and it gives Teneo a rather unique edge when compared to many other DePIN applications.
The next is Kaisar Network, which is relatively similar to Grass. Both Teneo and Kaisar Network are yet to drop their initial airdrop, and are worth keeping an eye on, especially if you are farming/mining points. Another firm favorite is Silencio. If utilized efficiently, this mobile application can generate tens of thousands of SLC tokens in next to no time. It’s a favorite because it is unlike most DePINs; you can actually withdraw your SLC tokens at the beginning of every month.
What About Solana? Its DePIN Potential Is Hard To Ignore
You will note that all three of these projects are built on Peaq. Needless to say, I envision a lot of value entering and being transferred within the Peaq ecosystem in the next few years. Peaq might not be a hot topic now. However, as the altcoin market recovers and many of these projects realize overnight market caps, I expect the ecosystem as a whole to flourish.
When it comes to Solana, I believe Gradient Network is the one to watch. Nodepay was a bit of a disappointment. However, Gradient could be the next big success story on Solana after Grass. There are a few newer projects that I have encountered. However, nothing looks particularly interesting or holds much potential. UpRock is a nice little project on Solana. However, the earnings are a bit slow.
I saved the best for last. DeNet is the DePIN project I am most looking forward to in 2026. This DePIN project is unique in its specialization in decentralized storage. I expect the TGE to be a huge success. However, depending on what the market is doing could impact it heavily. Whether positively or negatively, we will have to wait and see. DeNet holds enormous potential, in my opinion.
Final Thoughts
Can Grass still make you money in 2026? Yes, it most certainly can. DePIN has always been one of my favorite sectors within the space, and I am excited to see how many of these newer projects will perform, especially those on Peaq. Furthermore, I am rather intrigued to know what Grass has to offer us this time around. I am also hoping for much more development in the space, ultimately leading to new ideas and concepts. Anyway, all the best, and remember to have fun. See you next time!