How These Tiers Are Ranked<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Every weapon on this list was scored against four criteria:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Time-to-kill (TTK):<\/strong> how quickly the weapon downs a fully armored enemy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Recoil control:<\/strong> how manageable the spray pattern is, both with and without attachments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Versatility:<\/strong> how well the weapon performs across multiple ranges rather than just one.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Availability:<\/strong> whether the gun spawns as common ground loot or only in airdrops, since a weapon you can never find isn't a practical S-tier pick.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Tier definitions:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- S-Tier<\/strong> \u2013 Meta-defining weapons. Grab these on sight, no debate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A-Tier<\/strong> \u2013 Excellent backups that can outperform S-tier in the right situation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- B-Tier<\/strong> \u2013 Solid, dependable guns that keep you alive but rarely dominate a fight.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- C-Tier<\/strong> \u2013 Situational weapons that need a skilled player and specific circumstances to shine.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- D-Tier<\/strong> \u2013 Only use these if nothing better is on the ground.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
PUBG Weapon Tier List Overview<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Tier<\/th> Weapons<\/th><\/tr><\/thead> S<\/strong><\/td> M416, Groza, AWM, UMP, DBS, MG3<\/td><\/tr> A<\/strong><\/td> AKM, Beryl M762, Mini14, Kar98k, Mk14 EBR, SLR<\/td><\/tr> B<\/strong><\/td> SCAR-L, DP-28, SKS, Vector, Thompson, PP-19 Bizon<\/td><\/tr> C<\/strong><\/td> Vector (no extended mag), MP5K, QBZ, M16A4, Uzi<\/td><\/tr> D<\/strong><\/td> Win94, Mosin-Nagant, FAMAS, VSS, Crossbow<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n S-Tier Weapons: Always Pick These Up<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
M416<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"M416\"](\"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/m416-1024x701.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe M416 remains the most balanced AR in the game. It accepts every attachment slot, keeps recoil manageable even without a full kit, and covers close, medium, and long range without a real weakness. There's rarely a scenario where swapping out a fully attached M416 makes sense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Groza<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"Groza\"](\"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/groza-1024x701.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe Groza has the fastest fire rate of any assault rifle and the most serious per-shot damage in its class. It trades a bit of recoil control for a dramatically shorter time-to-kill, which is exactly why pro players grab it first out of every airdrop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
AWM<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"AWM\"](\"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/awm-1024x701.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe AWM is the only sniper rifle that can one-shot an enemy through a Level 3 helmet. Its Magnum ammo is scarce, but the payoff \u2014 a guaranteed elimination on a clean headshot \u2014 makes it worth carrying even with limited bullets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
UMP<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"UMP\"](\"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/ump45-1024x701.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLow recoil, solid per-shot damage, and plentiful .45 ACP ammo make the UMP45 the best all-around SMG. It plays almost like a compact AR, which is why it's a favorite for close-quarters building fights in competitive lobbies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
DBS<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"DBS\"](\"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/dbs-1024x701.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe DBS fires two shells at once, and at point-blank range that means a near-guaranteed knock or kill. It has been tuned down slightly in recent patches but is still the strongest shotgun option indoors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
MG3<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"MG3\"](\"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/mg3-1024x701.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nA massive magazine paired with a high fire rate makes the MG3 the best suppression and clutch weapon in the game. It's less precise than an AR, but few weapons can hold a chokepoint the way the MG3 can.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A-Tier Weapons: Reliable Alternatives<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- AKM<\/strong> \u2013 The hardest-hitting non-airdrop AR. High recoil, but devastating in close range for players who can control the spray.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Beryl M762<\/strong> \u2013 A very fast fire rate AR that shreds up close but kicks hard past 50 meters; best paired with a long-range weapon.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Mini14 (DMR)<\/strong> \u2013 Reduced recoil after recent balance changes turned this into one of the most forgiving long-range weapons for most players.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Kar98k (Bolt-Action Sniper)<\/strong> \u2013 A one-shot headshot kill against Level 2 helmets and below, and it spawns as regular ground loot, making it far easier to find than the AWM.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Mk14 EBR (DMR \u2014 Airdrop only)<\/strong> \u2013 Switches between semi-auto and full-auto fire, blurring the line between sniper and assault rifle with brutal close-range burst damage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- SLR (DMR)<\/strong> \u2013 Higher damage than the Mini14 but noticeably more recoil; rewards players who can manage the kick.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
B-Tier Weapons: Dependable but Replaceable<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- SCAR-L<\/strong> \u2013 Stable and easy to control, but lower damage than the M416; a fine placeholder until you find something better.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- DP-28 (LMG)<\/strong> \u2013 Near-zero recoil while prone, plus a huge magazine, but loses effectiveness the moment you're forced to move.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- SKS (DMR)<\/strong> \u2013 Decent damage output but tougher to control than the Mini14, and needs a full attachment set to feel comfortable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Vector (with extended mag)<\/strong> \u2013 One of the fastest fire rates in the game; devastating up close as long as you're not caught reloading.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Thompson SMG<\/strong> \u2013 A generous 50-round magazine and strong base damage make it a good early-game SMG pick.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- PP-19 Bizon<\/strong> \u2013 Reliable short-to-mid-range SMG with low recoil, especially effective with a red dot sight.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
C-Tier Weapons: Situational Picks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Vector (no extended mag)<\/strong> \u2013 Same devastating fire rate, but the tiny stock magazine means you'll run dry mid-fight without an attachment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- MP5K<\/strong> \u2013 A capable SMG, but outclassed by the UMP45 and Vector in nearly every matchup.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- QBZ \/ M16A4<\/strong> \u2013 Both can perform well in trained hands, but neither offers a clear advantage over the M416 or AKM.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Uzi<\/strong> \u2013 The fastest fire rate in the game, but weak armor penetration limits it mostly to the early game before players find vests and helmets.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
D-Tier Weapons: Avoid Unless Desperate<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Win94<\/strong> \u2013 An iron-sight-only lever-action rifle with an extremely high skill ceiling; punishing for anyone who isn't landing headshots consistently.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Mosin-Nagant<\/strong> \u2013 Slow fire rate and heavy recoil make it one of the weaker bolt-action snipers available.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- FAMAS<\/strong> \u2013 Burst-fire only, which limits its usefulness compared to fully automatic ARs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- VSS<\/strong> \u2013 Quiet, but low damage output makes it a poor fit outside of very specific stealth plays.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Crossbow<\/strong> \u2013 Silent and capable of a one-shot kill against light armor, but the slow reload and single-shot nature make it a novelty pick for most players.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best PUBG Loadout Combos in the Current Meta<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Pairing two weapons that cover different ranges is almost always stronger than carrying two guns built for the same job.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- M416 + Mini14<\/strong> \u2013 The most balanced loadout in the game. M416 covers close-to-mid range, Mini14 handles everything past 100 meters.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- M416 + Kar98k<\/strong> \u2013 An aggressive sniping combo: get a knock with the Kar98k, then push and finish with the M416.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Groza + AWM<\/strong> \u2013 The dream double-airdrop loadout. Groza shreds up close, AWM one-shots at range.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- M416 + UMP45<\/strong> \u2013 Ideal for players who prefer two automatics over sniping; M416 for range, UMP45 for building clears.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Beryl M762 + SLR<\/strong> \u2013 A high-recoil, high-reward loadout for experienced players who want maximum damage per magazine.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What is the best weapon in PUBG right now?<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The M416 is widely considered the best all-around weapon because of its low recoil and versatility across every range. If you can find airdrop weapons, the Groza and AWM outperform it in close range and sniping, respectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What is the best sniper rifle in PUBG?<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The AWM is the strongest sniper overall since it can one-shot an enemy through a Level 3 helmet. The Kar98k is the best non-airdrop alternative and is far easier to find as ground loot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Which SMG should I use in PUBG?<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The UMP45 is the top SMG pick thanks to its low recoil and solid damage, making it especially strong in close-quarters building fights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Is the AKM still good in the current meta?<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Yes. The AKM deals more damage per bullet than any other non-airdrop assault rifle, though it requires more recoil control than the M416.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What's the best two-weapon loadout for beginners?<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
M416 paired with Mini14 is the most forgiving combo, since both weapons have manageable recoil and together cover almost every engagement range.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How often does the PUBG weapon tier list change?<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Rankings shift with major balance patches, which typically adjust recoil patterns, damage values, or add new airdrop weapons. It's worth rechecking the meta after every seasonal update.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/memubtn>\n\n\n\n Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
A tier list only narrows the odds \u2014 it doesn't win the fight for you. The M416 and UMP45 remain the safest all-around picks, while the Groza and AWM reward the risk of chasing airdrops. Match your loadout to your playstyle rather than chasing the highest letter, and revisit this ranking after each balance patch since small tweaks can reshuffle it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
More from PUBG Mobile<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
PUBG Mobile Codes<\/a>
How to Play PUBG Mobile on PC<\/a>
How to enable PUBG Mobile 90 FPS on MEmu<\/a>
PUBG Mobile FAQ<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Landing in the right spot only gets you halfway to a Chicken Dinner \u2014 the rest comes down to which gun you pick up. With every seasonal balance patch, PUBG’s weapon meta shifts a little: recoil curves get tuned, new airdrop weapons show up, and yesterday’s must-grab AR can quietly slide down the rankings. This tier list breaks down every major weapon into five tiers \u2014 S, A, B, C, and D \u2014 based on damage output, recoil control, effective range, ammo availability, and how each gun actually performs in live matches. Whether you’re grinding toward Conqueror, prepping for scrims, or just want to know which gun to sprint toward when you land, this guide will help you build a loadout that wins fights instead of losing them. How These Tiers Are Ranked Every weapon on this list was scored against four criteria: Tier definitions: PUBG Weapon Tier List Overview Tier Weapons S M416, Groza, AWM, UMP, DBS, MG3 A AKM, Beryl M762, Mini14, Kar98k, Mk14 EBR, SLR B SCAR-L, DP-28, SKS, Vector, Thompson, PP-19 Bizon C Vector (no extended mag), MP5K, QBZ, M16A4, Uzi D Win94, Mosin-Nagant, FAMAS, VSS, Crossbow S-Tier Weapons: Always Pick These Up M416 The M416Read more »<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6935,"featured_media":51903,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[7044,11],"tags":[24751,4802,210],"yst_prominent_words":[33309,5882,51087,36126,642,36128,6973,1468],"class_list":["post-51889","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-game-guides","category-game-news","tag-app-824","tag-lang-en","tag-pubg-mobile"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/51889","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6935"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=51889"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/51889\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":51910,"href":"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/51889\/revisions\/51910"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/51903"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=51889"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=51889"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=51889"},{"taxonomy":"yst_prominent_words","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.memuplay.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/yst_prominent_words?post=51889"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
- M416 + Kar98k<\/strong> \u2013 An aggressive sniping combo: get a knock with the Kar98k, then push and finish with the M416.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Mosin-Nagant<\/strong> \u2013 Slow fire rate and heavy recoil make it one of the weaker bolt-action snipers available.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- MP5K<\/strong> \u2013 A capable SMG, but outclassed by the UMP45 and Vector in nearly every matchup.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- DP-28 (LMG)<\/strong> \u2013 Near-zero recoil while prone, plus a huge magazine, but loses effectiveness the moment you're forced to move.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Beryl M762<\/strong> \u2013 A very fast fire rate AR that shreds up close but kicks hard past 50 meters; best paired with a long-range weapon.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- A-Tier<\/strong> \u2013 Excellent backups that can outperform S-tier in the right situation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Recoil control:<\/strong> how manageable the spray pattern is, both with and without attachments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n