Understanding Sub-1 sat/vB Bitcoin Transactions

The 1 sat/vB Minimum Standard

Bitcoin fees are measured in satoshis per virtual byte (sat/vB). Most network nodes enforce a default relay policy requiring ≥1 sat/vB to:

1. Ensure miner incentives

2. Discourage transaction spam

3. Maintain efficient mempool operation

How Sub-1 sat/vB Transactions Function

• Not publicly relayed: Ignored by standard nodes; excluded from public mempools.

• Confirmation requirements:

  • Direct submission to miners, or

  • Private relay services (e.g., Slipstream).

• Unpredictable inclusion: Miners rarely prioritize these. Confirmation occurs only during low congestion if miners accept sub-1 sat policies.