Path of Exile 2: Best Class & Build Tier List

Path of Exile 2 is deep in early access, and Path of Exile 2 Currency while the meta hasn’t fully stabilized, the most effective classes and builds are beginning to stand out. With the upcoming Secret of the Atlas expansion on the horizon, now’s a perfect time to break down the top-performing characters and which builds are dominating the current game state.

Whether you’re diving into PoE 2 for the first time or looking to reroll ahead of the next patch, our early access tier list ranks the most powerful class/Ascendancy/build combinations based on damage, survivability, versatility, and endgame scaling.

Best Class & Build Tier List – Early Access Rankings

S-Tier – Top Meta Picks

1. Mercenary (Gemling Legionnaire – Grenade Mercenary Build):
This class sits at the very top due to its explosive Area-of-Effect capabilities, versatile grenade mechanics, and high synergy with support gems. It's the most consistent and dominant option right now, ideal for both leveling and endgame content.

2. Ranger (Deadeye – Lightning Arrow Build):
A close second to the Mercenary, the Ranger thrives on speed, precision, and screen-clearing power. Lightning Arrow is a powerhouse for clearing large packs, and Deadeye provides range, critical strike boosts, and utility.

A-Tier – Very Strong, Slightly Less Dominant

1. Warrior (Smith of Kitava – Boneshatter Smith Build):
A melee juggernaut with high burst potential and strong survivability. Boneshatter delivers devastating blows, and the Warrior class scales well with crafted gear and physical damage.

2. Huntress (Amazon – Bleed Rake Amazon Build):
This build specializes in bleed-based damage over time, offering strong boss-killing potential and good scaling. Though less flashy than others, it’s durable and POE 2 Currency deadly with the right gear.