Akula vs. Savage: Which GTA Online Helicopter Reigns Supreme?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The question of whether the Akula or the Savage is the superior helicopter in GTA Online is a common debate among players. Both offer unique strengths and weaknesses, catering to different playstyles and mission types. The answer, in short, isn’t a simple one and it depends heavily on your priorities. However, for overall versatility and tactical advantage, the Akula generally takes the edge, but it’s not a clear victory.
The Akula shines with its stealth capabilities and maneuverability, making it ideal for solo players and covert operations. Conversely, the Savage delivers raw, unadulterated firepower, perfect for aggressive assaults and quick target destruction, however, it is less refined in handling. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide which helicopter best suits your needs.
Akula: The Stealth Master
Strengths
The primary draw of the Akula is undoubtedly its stealth mode. This allows players to go completely off the radar, making it invaluable for completing missions undetected, sneaking past rival players, and even engaging in unexpected attacks. This feature alone places the Akula in a class of its own for covert gameplay. Additionally, the Akula boasts:
- Excellent Maneuverability: The Akula is exceptionally agile, making it easy to navigate tight spaces and outmaneuver enemy fire. Its responsiveness makes it a joy to fly.
- Good Speed and Acceleration: Although it’s not the fastest helicopter overall, the Akula possesses impressive acceleration and a solid top speed of 157.25 mph (253.07 km/h), allowing for quick getaways and rapid repositioning.
- Versatile Weaponry: The Akula is equipped with a nose-mounted turret, miniguns, and missile pods that can fire both barrage and homing missiles. This arsenal makes it a threat in combat situations.
- Solo Viability: Unlike the Hunter, the Akula can be used to its fullest potential with just one player, making it ideal for those who prefer to play solo or don’t always have a co-pilot available.
- Cargo Concealment: The Akula can conceal cargo during delivery missions, providing an added layer of protection against other players.
- Capacity: The Akula accommodates up to four players, making it effective for cooperative gameplay.
Weaknesses
- Lower Speed Compared to Some: While it’s fast enough, the Akula isn’t the absolute speed king in the skies, other aircraft outpace it.
- Lacks Countermeasures: It does not possess countermeasures like flares, making it vulnerable to lock-on missiles.
Savage: The Firepower Beast
Strengths
The Savage is renowned for its explosive firepower. It’s a flying tank, designed to obliterate targets with brute force. Its notable advantages include:
- Rapid-Fire Explosive Cannon: This cannon is the Savage’s main selling point. It has no cooldown and can quickly destroy targets with its explosive rounds, similar to the P 996 Lazer and Hydra.
- Unlimited Rockets: The Savage’s ability to fire an unlimited amount of missiles without cooldown is incredibly potent, allowing you to relentlessly barrage enemies.
- High Damage Output: The Savage can inflict extreme damage on both ground and air targets.
- Durability: It is comparatively sturdy, capable of taking a considerable amount of damage before being destroyed.
Weaknesses
- Poor Handling: The Savage is often described as “boaty,” making it hard to control and maneuver, especially at high speeds. Its agility is significantly inferior to the Akula.
- Vulnerability at Low Speeds: While devastating at lower airspeeds, the Savage is more vulnerable to attack when moving slowly.
- Lack of Stealth: The Savage is a loud, lumbering machine that cannot be easily concealed. It’s always a visible threat on the map.
- No Countermeasures: Like the Akula, the Savage does not have flares or other countermeasures, making it vulnerable to lock-on missiles.
- Only One Seat: The Savage is a solo-player aircraft, which limits its use in cooperative scenarios.
The Verdict
If you value stealth, maneuverability, and solo play, the Akula is the clear winner. Its ability to go off the radar and its nimble handling make it ideal for a variety of missions and scenarios. You can approach objectives undetected, eliminate targets efficiently, and extract yourself quickly and safely.
If your primary goal is pure destructive power and you prefer an aggressive playstyle, the Savage may suit you more. Its rapid-fire explosive cannon and unlimited missiles make it exceptionally effective at taking down targets with extreme prejudice. However, its poor handling and lack of stealth make it a less versatile choice overall.
In conclusion, the Akula’s blend of stealth, speed, and versatile weaponry makes it the better all-around helicopter for most players. The Savage, while powerful, is too niche and hampered by its poor maneuverability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does the Akula have countermeasures?
No, the Akula does not have countermeasures like flares or chaff. This makes it susceptible to lock-on missiles. However, its stealth mode gives it an advantage.
2. Can the Savage be stored in a hangar?
Yes, if you have a hangar, you can store your Savage by landing it inside. This will add it to your inventory, and you can keep adding more as long as you stay within the hangar limits.
3. Which is faster, the Akula or the Hunter?
The Hunter is slightly faster than the Akula, but the Akula is known for better maneuverability.
4. Does the Savage have unlimited missiles?
Yes, the Savage has unlimited missiles with no cooldown, making it a powerful offensive vehicle.
5. Is the Akula better than the Buzzard?
Generally, yes. The Akula offers greater durability, better damage output, and stealth capabilities compared to the Buzzard, though it costs more.
6. How many missiles does the Akula carry?
The Akula can carry up to 12 Granit submarine-launched cruise missiles.
7. Can the Akula hide cargo?
Yes, the Akula can hide cargo during delivery missions, allowing you to avoid other players.
8. Which is better for PvP, the Akula or the Savage?
The Akula is considered better for PvP encounters due to its all-around abilities and maneuverability, allowing you to get the jump on opponents more readily.
9. What’s the most hated vehicle in GTA Online?
The Oppressor Mk II is widely considered the most hated vehicle in GTA Online due to its speed, accuracy, and high-tech defense mechanisms.
10. Can the Akula go off radar?
Yes, the Akula has a stealth mode that allows it to go completely off the radar. It only appears when the stealth mode is deactivated.
11. Is the Savage good for solo players?
While the Savage is powerful, its poor handling can make it challenging for solo players. It’s also a single-seat aircraft, limiting cooperative options.
12. How does the Savage handle compared to the Akula?
The Savage is known for its poor, “boaty” handling, while the Akula is highly maneuverable and responsive.
13. What is the best non-weaponized helicopter in GTA Online?
The Volatus is a high-end, non-weaponized helicopter perfect for players who want a luxurious ride.
14. How many missiles can the Savage take?
The Savage can take two hits from lock-on missiles and a couple of explosive rounds from other weapons before being destroyed.
15. Which helicopter is better for solo missions?
The Akula is better for solo missions, thanks to its stealth mode and good maneuverability, which make it easy to evade enemies and complete objectives without attracting undue attention.