Artificer’s Orbs in Path of Exile 2 are coveted resources that allow players to add rune sockets to their martial weapons and armor. Many players maintain a stockpile of poe 2 currency to trade for extra Artificer’s Shards or orbs, ensuring they can socket key gear efficiently. Given their importance for build customization and progression, knowing when to hold onto these orbs versus when to use them can make all the difference in your endgame success.
First and foremost, save your Artificer’s Orbs when you’re still leveling or frequently replacing your gear. Early-game equipment changes rapidly, and using an orb on a piece you might soon discard is wasteful. Instead, focus on collecting Artificer’s Shards and building up a reserve of orbs for when you have secured solid endgame or near-endgame gear that will serve you for the long haul. Players sometimes choose to buy poe 2 currency to accelerate shard collection, giving them a faster path to fully socketed endgame equipment.
Once you’ve acquired high-quality rare, unique, or perfectly rolled martial weapons or armor, spending Artificer’s Orbs becomes a strategic move. Adding sockets to these foundational pieces allows you to expand your rune setup and unlock greater synergy, resulting in significant boosts to damage, survivability, or utility. Before applying an orb, ensure you’ve upgraded the item (with quality, links, and mods) to the desired level, as you want to invest these powerful resources in gear that will remain relevant as your character advances.
Don’t spend orbs on caster weapons, accessories, or items your build won’t use for long. Reserve them for those game-defining upgrades—a powerful two-handed sword, a unique body armor, or heavily invested gloves, boots, or helmets.
Mid-late game, when gear upgrades slow down and you’re investing heavier in a single build, it’s wise to spend your accumulated Artificer’s Orbs on maximizing socket count in each piece of gear that you rely on. This timing ensures that each orb spent delivers maximum impact, as you’ll benefit from the extra rune slots in endgame content where every advantage counts.
Consider the market value of Artificer’s Orbs. In some leagues, the orbs themselves can trade for significant currency. If you’re between builds or eyeing a big purchase, saving your orbs and trading for another upgrade may be the smarter play.
Save orbs when gear is still transitional, and spend them when you’ve locked in critical endgame equipment. Make each use count by investing in items central to your build’s success, and keep an eye on the shifting value of these orbs in the player economy. That way, you’ll ensure your Artificer’s Orbs are always advancing your Wraeclast ambitions in the most effective way.
