Dungeons and Dragons Best Artificer Subclass Tier List

Dungeons and Dragons continues to be a game of limitless possibilities, with each class offering a unique combination of combat abilities and storytelling opportunities. Among them, the Artificer stands out as a master of invention, combining magic with technology to create magical items, consumables, and more. However, the true diversity of the Artificer class v Dungeons and Dragons comes from its subclasses, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

Whether you're a seasoned player or just diving into the world of Artificers, subclasses unlock in D&D at level 3 and choosing the right one is an important part of building your character. Each subclass can be valued for combat effectiveness, utility (for both self and group), and versatility, which is why not all subclasses are created equal for the Artificer.

S-Tier: The Ultimate Artificer Subclass

Why Battle Smith is S-Tier

When it comes to combining melee combat with spellcasting, the Battle Smith Artificer is in a league of its own. This subclass provides an impressive balance between offense and defense, making it a suitable choice for any player looking for a versatile character with strong combat abilities. Unrivaled in versatility, the Battle Smith offers a unique combination of combat prowess and magical invention. The key to this subclass is the Steel Defender, a mechanical companion that helps in combat and provides both damage and durability. You also get Extra Attack, which allows you to deal consistent damage throughout each turn. Changes in D&DThe Eberron: Forge of the Artificer Handbook did not make the Battle Smith any less powerful than it was.

Perhaps the Battle Smith's greatest asset is its ability to infuse magic D&D weapons and armor that turn any piece of equipment into a powerful instrument of destruction. Whether you're tanking hits or dealing high damage, this subclass does it all. If you're looking for a well-rounded Artificer subclass that thrives both at the front and with magic support, the Battle Smith is an obvious choice. Its versatility and performance make it a sub-S-tier.

Key strengths:

• Steel Defender works as a combat companion as well as a damage sponge D&D's Battle Smith.

• Extra Attack for increased damage output.

• Ability to infuse magical enhancements into armor and weapons.

• Strong survivability and tanking ability.

A-Tier: Ranged Destruction Specialists and Tank Spellcasters

Why Artillerist is A-Tier

For players who want to focus on ranged combat and area of ​​effect (AoE) damage, the Artillerist subclass is a good choice. This subclass makes you a tactical expert who has powerful magic cannons that can wipe out groups of enemies. With his Eldritch Cannon ability, the Artillerist can set up a series of devastating magic cannons that not only deal heavy damage, but also provide great party support.

Whether dealing fire damage to enemies or healing allies, the Artillerist's flexibility is unmatched in ranged combat. It is especially effective for those who like to control the battlefield from a safe distance. While not as durable as Battle Smith, the best Artillerist Artificer build is all about consistent damage and supporting the team from behind. The Artillerist may lack the tanking abilities of other subclasses, especially the Armorer, but its ranged damage and battlefield control make it an excellent choice for strategic players. He comfortably holds the A-tier, surpassed only by the Battle Smith.

Key strengths:

• The Eldritch Cannon offers a variety of powerful magical attacks and support abilities.

• High AoE damage ability, ideal for crowd control.

• Versatile combat options from ranged to healing.

Why Armorer is A-Tier

If you prefer a more defensive playstyle but still want to contribute damage, the Armorer subclass is a fantastic choice. The Armorer specializes in armored combat and turns the Artificer into a heavily armored behemoth, capable of carrying and dealing massive damage. The armorer's signature trait is Arcane Armor, which allows you to don a suit of magical armor that improves both your defensive and offensive abilities. Whether you choose Guardian or Infiltrator mode, you'll gain abilities that make you a formidable presence on the battlefield.

Guardian mode focuses on tanking damage and crowd control, making you a reliable defender for your team. Infiltrator mode improves mobility and adds ranged combat capabilities, allowing for a more versatile role. The Armorer shines in his ability to be both a solid frontline and damage dealer, offering excellent flexibility in how you approach combat. Overall, the Armorer delivers a fantastic balance of defense and offense. It's a great choice for players who want to be at the forefront of the fight, absorbing damage and dealing it back, similar to some of the best barbarian subclasses in D&D.

Key strengths:

• Arcane Armor provides enhanced defense and versatile combat capabilities.

• Guardian mode for tanking and protecting allies.

• Infiltrator mode for mobility and ranged attacks.

B-Tier: Potions and Support Master

Why is Alchemist B-Tier

The Alchemist Artificer in 5e specializes in the preparation of potions and magic elixirs and offers considerable support to your party. However, despite its potential, it lacks the raw damage output of a Battle Smith or Artillerist and can suffer or shine depending on the overall playstyle of the group and characters, placing it in the B-tier. Alchemist excels at providing utility and healing through abilities like Alchemical Mastery and Experimental Elixir. You can brew potions that heal your allies, strengthen your team, or even cause enemies to suffer debilitating effects.

The Alchemist is ideal for players who want to focus on the support role and experiment with different effects in and out of combat. While the Alchemist can greatly contribute to party survivability and resource management, his overall lack of offensive ability holds him back in the higher ranks. Alchemist is great for those who prefer a support-focused playstyle, but his lack of raw damage makes him a weaker option compared to combat-focused subclasses. Still, it was by far the worst subclass before the recent changes to D&D's Artificer, so the current iteration is pretty much an upgrade.

Key strengths:

• Ability to create consumables such as healing potions, buffs and debuffs.

• Awesome for resourceful players who like an out-of-combat utility.

• Strong support and creative options for DIY, but can be more specialized depending on group settings.

C-Tier: The Niche Explorer

Why Cartographer is C-Tier

The Cartographer subclass, while interesting in concept, doesn't stack up against the other Artificer subclasses when it comes to combat or versatility. This subclass was recently introduced with a new D&D Eberron: Forge of the Artificer book and focuses mainly on map-related bonuses and Faerie Fire, which, while useful, doesn't offer much direct combat ability. The cartographer excels at providing detailed maps and navigation aids, as well as providing initiative bonuses, but this specialized focus makes him less useful in traditional combat campaigns.

It doesn't offer much offensive power, and its usefulness is better suited to specific types of campaigns, often at the GM's discretion. If you're looking for a role that focuses heavily on the exploration aspect of the game, Cartographer might be the right choice for you. However, for most campaigns the limited utility in combat and support roles is relegated to C-level as the worst Artificer subclass in D&D.

Key Weaknesses:

• The game loop requires constant use of an average focus spell.

• Limited direct contribution to fights and battles.

• Best suited for niche or homegrown campaigns.