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 blend of combat abilities and storytelling possibilities. Among these, the Artificer stands out as a master inventor, blending magic with technology to create magical items, consumables, and more. But the true diversity of the Artificer class i Dungeons and dragons come from their subclasses, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.

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

S-Tier: The Ultimate Artificer Subclass

Why Battle Smith is S-Tier

When it comes to mixing combat with spellcasting, the Battle Smith Artificer is in a league of its own. This subclass delivers an impressive balance between offense and defense, making it the best choice for any player looking for a well-rounded character with strong combat abilities. Unrivaled in versatility, the Battle Smith offers a unique combination of combat prowess and magical invention. Key to this subclass is the Steel Defender, a mechanical companion that aids in combat and provides both damage and durability. You also gain Extra Attack, allowing you to deal consistent damage throughout each round. The changes in D&D's Eberron: Forge of the Artificer manual didn't make the Battle Smith any less powerful than it already was.

Perhaps the Battle Smith's biggest selling point is its ability to infuse magic into D&D weapons and armor, turning any piece of equipment into a powerful tool of destruction. Whether you're throwing punches or dealing heavy damage, this subclass does it all. If you're looking for a well-rounded Artificer subclass that thrives both on the frontline and with magical support, the Battle Smith is the obvious choice. Its versatility and power make it an S-tier subclass.

Key strengths:

• Steel Defender doubles as a battle companion and a damage sponge for D&Ds Battle Smith.

• Extra attack for improved damage.

• Ability to infuse magical enhancements into armor and weapons.

• Strong survivability and tanking ability.

A-Tier: Ranged Destruction Specialists and Tanky Spellcasters

Why Artillerist is A-Tier

For players who want to focus on ranged combat and AoE damage, the Artillery subclass is a solid choice. This subclass turns you into a tactical expert wielding powerful magic cannons that can wipe out groups of enemies. With his Eldritch Cannon ability, the Artillery can set up a host of devastating magical artillery pieces that not only deal great damage but also provide excellent support for the party.

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

Key strengths:

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

• High AoE damage capacity, 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 to the damage output, the Armorer subclass is a great option. Specializing in armored combat, the Armorer turns the Artificer into a heavily armored juggernaut, capable of both taking and dealing massive damage. The armorer's defining feature is Arcane Armor, which allows you to don a suit of magical armor that enhances both your defensive and offensive abilities. Whether you choose Guardian or Infiltrator mode, you gain abilities that make you a formidable presence on the battlefield.

Guardian mode focuses on combat damage and crowd control, making you a reliable protector of your team. Infiltrator mode improves mobility and adds ranged combat capabilities, allowing for a more versatile role. Armorer shines in her ability to be both a solid frontliner and a damage dealer, offering excellent flexibility in how you approach combat. Overall, the Armorer provides a great balance between defense and offense. It's a great choice for players who want to be at the forefront of the battle, taking damage while giving it right back, much like some of the best barbarian subclasses in D&D.

Key strengths:

• Arcane Armor provides improved defense and versatile combat options.

• Guardian Mode for refueling and protecting allies.

• Infiltrator mode for mobility and ranged attacks.

B-level: The master of potions and supports

Why Alchemist is B-Tier

Alchemist Artificer in 5e specializes in concocting potions and magical elixirs, and offers great support to your party. But despite its potential, it lacks the raw damage of Battle Smith or Artillerist, and can suffer or shine depending on the overall party's playstyle and characters, placing it in the B-tier. The alchemist excels at providing utility and healing through abilities such as Alchemical Mastery and Experimental Elixir. You can brew potions that heal your allies, buff your team, or even cause enemies to suffer debilitating effects.

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

Key strengths:

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

• Great for resourceful players who like tools outside of combat.

• Strong support and creative options for tinkering, but can be more niche depending on the group's setup.

C-Tier: The Niche Researcher

Why Cartographer is C-Tier

The Cartographer subclass, while exciting in concept, doesn't measure up to the other Artificer subclasses in terms of combat or versatility. This subclass was recently introduced with the new D&D Eberron: Forge of the Artificer book, and it focuses mainly on map-related bonuses and Faerie Fire, which, while useful, doesn't offer much in the way of direct combat abilities. The cartographer excels at providing detailed maps and aiding navigation, as well as providing initiative bonuses, but this niche focus makes it less useful in traditional combat-heavy campaigns.

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

Key Weaknesses:

• The game loop requires constant use of a mediocre focus spell.

• Limited direct contribution to fights and battles.

• Best suited for niche or homebrew campaigns.