Picking a main character in Path of Exile 2 isn’t easy. With the game mechanics changing so much from the first game, many players are worried about crafting their first build. You don’t want to sink hours into a class that struggles in the endgame.
We’ve tested the current meta to determine which classes perform best in damage, survival, and speed. Whether you prefer melee combat or casting spells from a distance, this tier list breaks down the strongest choices to help you start the league right.
Best PoE 2 Class Overview
Before looking at the tier list, it is important to understand the three main playstyles in the current meta.
- Melee (Strength): Classes like the Warrior. They can take a hit, but they are slower. In PoE 2, melee combat feels heavy. You need to time your attacks rather than just face-tanking bosses.
- Ranged (Dexterity): The Ranger and Huntress are all about mobility. If you like kiting enemies and moving fast, this is your go-to. The dodge roll mechanic is a lifesaver here.
- Casters (Intelligence): The Sorceress brings huge area damage. However, you are often a “glass cannon.” You will need good positioning to survive endgame bosses.
We also have hybrid classes like the Monk or Druid, which mix these styles for more complex combos.
Best Classes Tier List
We evaluated these classes based on three main factors: high speed, leadership potential, and endgame survival. Since there are many beginners in PoE 2, we also looked at how easy it is to play in these classes without expensive equipment.
| Tier | Class |
 S-Tier: |
Ranger(img), Druid(img) |
 |
Warrior(img), Huntress(img), Sorceress(img) |
 |
Monk(img), Mercenary(img) |
S-Tier PoE 2 Classes
You don’t need expensive, unique items to make them work. They are strong right from the start, making them the perfect choice for a smooth league start and pushing into the endgame quickly.
Ranger
The Ranger is currently the queen of speed and mobility. She sits in the S-Tier because she allows you to deal damage while staying on the move. In a game where standing still often leads to death, this is a huge advantage.
Druid
The Druid is the ultimate choice if you hate dying. He sits firmly in the S-Tier because he is incredibly tanky and forgiving. While other classes have to dodge every single attack, the Druid can often just stand there and fight back.
A-Tier PoE2 Classes
While S-Tier builds might fly through the game naked, these classes require some investment in items to reach their peak. Once you get the right gear, however, they can easily match or even outperform the top tier in damage. They are projects for the long term.
Warrior
The Warrior is the perfect choice for players who want to feel the impact of every hit. He sits in the A-Tier because he offers a very. Instead of fast, weak hits, the Warrior focuses on slow, heavy slams that crush enemies.
He is naturally tough and can take a hit, making him forgiving for beginners. His ability to stun-lock bosses gives you control over the fight. If you enjoy jumping into the middle of a pack and surviving through sheer strength, the Warrior is a pick.
Witch
The Witch is the master of the “lazy” playstyle. She is an A-Tier powerhouse because she commands a minion army to do the fighting for her. This allows you to focus on dodging and staying alive while your summons deal massive passive damage.
She is excellent for handling complex boss mechanics because you can keep a safe distance at all times. While she might need specific gear to make her minions survive the endgame, the Witch offers one of the safest ways to clear maps without putting yourself in danger.
Huntress
The Huntress brings a unique style to the game, focusing on spears and javelins. She is in the A-Tier because of her incredible versatility. She thrives in mid-range combat, allowing you to poke enemies from afar or dive in for a kill.
Her playstyle feels like a dance. You have high mobility and can switch between throwing attacks and melee strikes instantly. She rewards players who have good timing. If you want a build that feels fast, fluid, and relies on combo attacks, the Huntress is highly rewarding.
Sorceress
If you love seeing big numbers and explosions, pick the Sorceress. She is the queen of elemental destruction. Whether it is fire, ice, or lightning, she has the best tools for screen-wide clear. She sits in A-Tier because her damage is almost S-Tier level.
The trade-off is defense. She can be a bit of a “glass cannon,” meaning she takes more damage if you get hit. However, her ability to freeze or burn enemies often stops them before they can touch you. She is the best class for speed-farming if you have good positioning.
B-Tier PoE2 Classes
Monk
The Monk is designed for players who love fast-paced combat. He plays more like a fighting game character than a traditional ARPG hero. He sits in the B-Tier because his playstyle relies heavily on executing complex combos and keeping your momentum up.
While his mobility is unmatched, he can be very punishing if you make a mistake. You need to be constantly moving and dodging to survive. If you have quick reflexes and enjoy a high-risk, high-reward playstyle, the Monk is incredible. However, for a relaxed farming experience, he requires a lot of active inputs.
Mercenary
The Mercenary changes the game completely by turning it into a twin-stick shooter. Instead of magic or swords, you use crossbows, grenades, and ammo types. He is in the B-Tier because this unique style feels very different and might not fit everyone’s taste.
He excels at dealing burst damage to bosses using his varied arsenal. However, managing your reloads and aiming manually adds a layer of difficulty. If you want a tactical playstyle where you control every shot, the Mercenary is a fun choice, but he lacks the simple “one-button clear” of the top-tier classes.
