The Division 2: Unveiling the Best SMG in 2023
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The best SMG in The Division 2 for 2023 is a nuanced question with no single definitive answer. However, considering factors like damage output, versatility, handling, and build synergy, the Darkness Zone (DZ) exclusive “The Apartment” consistently ranks as a top contender for many players. Its high base damage, excellent rate of fire, and potential for significant critical hit chance make it a formidable weapon in both PvE and PvP scenarios. The viability of other SMGs largely depends on player preference, build specialization, and play style.
Deep Dive into the SMG Meta of The Division 2
The submachine gun category in The Division 2 is brimming with options, each possessing unique strengths and weaknesses. Identifying the “best” requires understanding the current meta, prevalent builds, and the roles SMGs typically fulfill. They excel in close-quarters combat, offering a high rate of fire and manageable recoil, making them ideal for aggressive playstyles and builds focused on maximizing damage output in short bursts.
Factors Influencing SMG Selection
Several crucial factors influence the choice of the “best” SMG for a given player:
- Damage Per Second (DPS): Raw DPS is a crucial metric, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Consider sustained DPS over time, factoring in reload speed and stability.
- Rate of Fire (RPM): A high RPM can shred enemies quickly, but it can also lead to ammunition depletion and increased recoil.
- Stability and Handling: Controllable recoil is essential, especially on console. Good handling makes it easier to stay on target.
- Critical Hit Chance (CHC) & Critical Hit Damage (CHD): SMGs are naturally suited for maximizing CHC and CHD, allowing for significant damage amplification.
- Out of Cover Damage (OoC): Certain SMGs are specifically designed to deal increased damage to enemies not behind cover. This can be extremely powerful against AI and other players.
- Talents: The weapon talent can drastically alter an SMG’s performance. Look for talents that synergize with your build and playstyle.
- Build Synergy: The ideal SMG should complement your overall build, enhancing your strengths and mitigating your weaknesses.
- Availability: Some of the best SMGs are rare drops or require specific activities (like entering the Dark Zone) to acquire.
Top Contenders for Best SMG in 2023
While “The Apartment” is a strong candidate, other SMGs deserve recognition:
- The Apartment (Dark Zone Exclusive): As previously mentioned, high base damage, excellent RPM, and synergy with crit builds. Its drawback is the risk involved in acquiring it from the Dark Zone.
- MPX: A highly customizable and versatile SMG, often favored for its stability and manageable recoil. Good for both PvE and PvP.
- Vector SBR 9mm: Boasts an incredibly high RPM, capable of melting enemies at close range. However, it requires careful recoil management and ammunition conservation.
- AUG A3-CQC: A balanced option with good damage, accuracy, and handling. It’s a solid all-around SMG that’s easy to control.
- MP7: Known for its accuracy and controllability, the MP7 is a popular choice for players who prioritize precision over raw damage.
- Lady Death (Exotic): An exotic SMG with a unique talent that grants increased movement speed and damage after sprinting and shooting. Best suited for aggressive, mobile players.
- CMMG Banshee: The CMMG Banshee has great damage but requires good modding and a stability build to control the recoil.
Example Builds and SMG Synergies
- Critical Hit Build with “The Apartment”: Focus on maximizing CHC and CHD with gear attributes, mods, and skills like Pulse. This build turns “The Apartment” into a crit machine, shredding enemies with rapid-fire critical hits.
- Skill Damage Build with MPX: Use the MPX with talents that benefit skill damage or provide crowd control, complementing skills like Turrets or Drones. The MPX’s stability allows for consistent damage output while skills handle crowd control or provide additional support.
- Aggressive PvPer with Lady Death: Utilize the Lady Death’s movement speed and damage bonus to flank enemies and quickly close the gap. Pair it with gear that enhances survivability and close-range combat effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About SMGs in The Division 2
1. What is the best SMG for PvP in The Division 2?
While subjective, “The Apartment” and the Vector SBR 9mm are strong contenders due to their high damage output and fast rate of fire. However, recoil control is crucial in PvP, so choose the SMG that you can handle effectively. Consider your playstyle and build; Lady Death is excellent for highly mobile builds.
2. Which SMG has the highest base damage?
Currently, “The Apartment” generally boasts some of the highest base damage among SMGs. This contributes significantly to its overall DPS.
3. What is the best talent for an SMG in The Division 2?
This depends on your build and playstyle. “Killer” (weapon damage increased after a kill), “Optimist” (weapon damage increased as magazine empties), and “Close & Personal” (weapon damage increased at close range) are all popular and effective talents. For high-crit builds, “Unhinged” (Increased rate of fire and weapon handling at the cost of accuracy) can also be effective.
4. How important is stability on an SMG?
Stability is very important, especially for console players. Without adequate stability, it becomes difficult to control the recoil and keep your shots on target, negating the SMG’s high rate of fire.
5. Should I prioritize critical hit chance or critical hit damage on my SMG build?
Ideally, you want a balance of both. Aim for a high CHC (around 50-60%) and then focus on maximizing CHD. Excessive CHD with low CHC is less effective than a balanced approach.
6. What mods should I use on my SMG?
Focus on CHC, CHD, stability, and magazine size. The specific mods will depend on the SMG and your build, but these are generally the most impactful stats to improve.
7. Are exotic SMGs worth using?
Yes, some exotic SMGs like the Lady Death are very powerful. However, they require specific builds and playstyles to fully utilize their unique talents.
8. Is the Dark Zone worth farming for “The Apartment”?
For many players, yes. “The Apartment” is a top-tier SMG, and the Dark Zone is the only place to obtain it. However, be prepared for PvP encounters and consider farming with a group.
9. How does gear score affect SMG performance?
Higher gear score generally translates to higher base damage and better attribute rolls on the SMG. Maximize your gear score to get the most out of your weapon.
10. What skills synergize well with SMGs?
Pulse (for increased CHC and CHD), Turrets (for crowd control and supplemental damage), and Shields (for aggressive close-quarters combat) are all good choices. The best skills depend on your playstyle and build.
11. How do I improve my accuracy with an SMG?
Practice recoil control, use stability mods, and consider using a laser pointer attachment. Short, controlled bursts are often more effective than sustained fire.
12. What are some good SMG alternatives for players who don’t like the Dark Zone?
The MPX, AUG A3-CQC, and MP7 are all viable alternatives that can be found outside the Dark Zone. They offer good performance and are relatively easy to acquire.
13. How often does the meta for SMGs change in The Division 2?
The meta can shift with each major update or balance patch. Stay informed by following community discussions, watching gameplay videos, and experimenting with different SMGs and builds.
14. Can SMGs be effective at long range?
No, SMGs are primarily designed for close-quarters combat. Their accuracy and damage fall off significantly at longer ranges. Use a different weapon type (like a rifle or marksman rifle) for long-range engagements.
15. What’s the best way to test different SMGs and builds?
The Shooting Range at the White House is a great place to test different SMGs and builds. You can experiment with different attachments, talents, and gear combinations to see what works best for you.