This The Elder Scrolls Online tier list ranks every major option by overall effectiveness. Rankings factor in damage output, survivability, versatility, gear requirements, and how well each option scales.
Tier definitions: S = best in class, always a strong pick. A = strong and competitive, minor weaknesses. B = solid but clearly outperformed in most situations. C = viable only for players who enjoy the playstyle.
Builds Rankings
| Tier | Build | Rating | Playstyle |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Templar | 8.5/10 | Balanced approach |
| A | Sorcerer | 8.5/10 | Balanced approach |
| A | Nightblade | 8.5/10 | Balanced approach |
| A | Dragonknight | 8.5/10 | Balanced approach |
| A | Warden | 8.5/10 | Balanced approach |
Detailed Builds Analysis
Templar (A-Tier)
Templar is a competitive option in the current meta.
Best with: Two-Handed Greatsword. See our builds guide for full setup. Stat focus: Balanced stats
Sorcerer (A-Tier)
Sorcerer is a competitive option in the current meta.
Best with: Dual Wield Daggers. See our builds guide for full setup. Stat focus: Balanced stats
Nightblade (A-Tier)
Nightblade is a competitive option in the current meta.
Best with: Lightning Staff. See our builds guide for full setup. Stat focus: Balanced stats
Dragonknight (A-Tier)
Dragonknight is a competitive option in the current meta.
Best with: Restoration Staff. See our builds guide for full setup. Stat focus: Balanced stats
Warden (A-Tier)
Warden is a competitive option in the current meta.
Best with: Bow. See our builds guide for full setup. Stat focus: Balanced stats
Equipment Rankings
| Equipment | Best With | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Two-Handed Greatsword | Stamina damage dealers wanting Berserker Strike | A stamina staple with a strong execute and an ultimate that buffs the whole group. |
| Dual Wield Daggers | Nightblades and stamina parsers | The highest damage stamina setup thanks to off-hand crit and fast attacks. |
| Lightning Staff | Magicka damage dealers in group content | The default magicka weapon, its heavy attack hits in an area and restores Magicka. |
| Restoration Staff | Healers in dungeons and trials | The healing weapon with ground heals, shields, and resource support for the group. |
| Bow | Stamina builds layering ranged dots | A ranged stamina backbar for damage-over-time and the Endless Hail area pressure. |
Check our weapons guide for in-depth stats and comparisons.
Equipment Analysis
Two-Handed Greatsword: A stamina staple with a strong execute and an ultimate that buffs the whole group.
Dual Wield Daggers: The highest damage stamina setup thanks to off-hand crit and fast attacks.
Lightning Staff: The default magicka weapon, its heavy attack hits in an area and restores Magicka.
Restoration Staff: The healing weapon with ground heals, shields, and resource support for the group.
Bow: A ranged stamina backbar for damage-over-time and the Endless Hail area pressure.
Meta Analysis
The current meta in The Elder Scrolls Online centers on Champion Points and weaving light and heavy attacks. Builds that leverage both systems outperform those that focus on only one. Our combat guide explains these interactions in depth.
What's strong right now:
- Templar with Two-Handed Greatsword is the benchmark. Everything else is measured against it.
- set bonuses builds are gaining ground as players find new synergies.
- Nightblade remains essential for learning hard content. See the boss guide.
What's underrated:
- Sorcerer is consistently overlooked despite being the most flexible option.
- Lightning Staff offers excellent performance for its investment level.
What's overhyped:
- Pure Warden builds. High ceiling but the consistency isn't there for most players.
Quick Picks by Situation
| Situation | Best Build | Best Gear | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall best | Templar | Two-Handed Greatsword | Highest consistent performance |
| New player | Sorcerer | Dual Wield Daggers | Most forgiving, teaches mechanics |
| Hard content | Nightblade | Lightning Staff | Survivability when you need it |
| Group play | Dragonknight | Restoration Staff | Utility and team support |
| Experienced player | Warden | Bow | Unique challenge and high ceiling |
More The Elder Scrolls Online Guides
- The Elder Scrolls Online The Elder Scrolls Online Overview
- The Elder Scrolls Online Best Builds
- The Elder Scrolls Online Walkthrough
- The Elder Scrolls Online Beginner's Guide
- The Elder Scrolls Online Tips & Tricks
- The Elder Scrolls Online Weapons Guide
- The Elder Scrolls Online Combat Guide
- The Elder Scrolls Online Boss Guide
- The Elder Scrolls Online Maps & Locations
- The Elder Scrolls Online Crafting Guide
- The Elder Scrolls Online Classes & Characters
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