Articles on: Mixin Messenger
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How to Consolidate UTXOs?

In blockchains such as Bitcoin and Mixin Network, UTXO (Unspent Transaction Output) is an accounting model where each transfer creates new UTXOs. When a wallet frequently receives many small payments, it can generate numerous small-value UTXOs. Over time, a wallet may accumulate a large number of small UTXOs, causing reduced transaction efficiency and increased fees.


Issues Caused by Excessive UTXOs

  • Reduced Transaction Efficiency:
    If your wallet contains many small-value UTXOs, transferring larger amounts requires combining multiple small UTXOs, adding complexity and potentially increasing transaction confirmation time.


  • Increased Management Complexity:
    A large number of small UTXOs makes wallet management more complex, negatively affecting performance and user experience.


Therefore, consolidating UTXOs enhances transaction efficiency, optimizes wallet management, and improves user experience.


What is UTXO Consolidation?


UTXO consolidation is like exchanging multiple smaller bills for a single larger bill. By consolidating several small UTXOs into fewer, larger UTXOs, you reduce the number of inputs required for future transactions, thus decreasing transaction data size and fees.


Here’s an example to help you understand better: Suppose Bob receives $5 from his mom every day. After 100 days, he ends up with one hundred $5 bills. If Bob wants to buy a $500 item, he’ll have to carry many bills, causing inconvenience for both him and the cashier. Consolidating UTXOs is equivalent to exchanging these one hundred $5 bills for five $100 bills, making the payment process faster and easier.


How to Consolidate UTXOs?


When your UTXO count exceeds 256, Mixin Messenger will automatically prompt you to Consolidate UTXOs during transfers. Simply follow the instructions and enter your PIN as prompted.


If you have a very large number of UTXOs, you may need to repeatedly enter your PIN to consolidate them until the total consolidated UTXOs match the amount you wish to transfer.

Updated on: 02/04/2025