$1K in Bitcoin vs Cash (Mattress) over 20 years
Bitcoin (PL)
$146K
Power Law
Cash (Mattress)
$1K
0% avg return
Difference
$145K
Bitcoin wins
50/50 Split
$74K
half in each
Portfolio Comparison
Year-by-Year Comparison
| Year | Bitcoin (PL) | Cash (Mattress) | BTC Infl-Adj | Cash (Mattress) Infl-Adj |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $2K | $1K | $2K | $1K |
| 2028 | $4K | $1K | $4K | $943 |
| 2030 | $6K | $1K | $6K | $888 |
| 2032 | $11K | $1K | $9K | $837 |
| 2034 | $17K | $1K | $13K | $789 |
| 2036 | $26K | $1K | $19K | $744 |
| 2038 | $38K | $1K | $27K | $701 |
| 2040 | $55K | $1K | $36K | $661 |
| 2042 | $78K | $1K | $48K | $623 |
| 2044 | $108K | $1K | $63K | $587 |
| 2046 | $146K | $1K | $81K | $554 |
Verdict
Power Law: Bitcoin wins — $145K more.
CAGR 20%: Bitcoin wins — $37K more.
Break-even: Bitcoin only needs 0.0% annual growth to match Cash (Mattress).
$1K Bitcoin vs Cash (Mattress)
This comparison puts $1K into Bitcoin versus Cash (Mattress) at a 0% average annual return over 20 years. Bitcoin projections use the Power Law model. Cash under the mattress earns nothing and loses purchasing power to inflation every year.
Not financial advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
$1K vs other assets
You might also like
New to Bitcoin? Start here.
Our free 10-module course covers everything from the basics to self-custody — no jargon, no shilling.
Want to customize these numbers?
Use the full Bitcoin FIRE Calculator to adjust your age, savings, expenses, and growth models. Plus explore our free 10-module Bitcoin course.