Introduction

Gear progression in Path of Exile 2 follows a distinct curve from the campaign through endgame. Knowing what to look for at each stage — and when to upgrade — dramatically improves your character’s power and survivability. This guide walks through optimal gear progression from your first white item to endgame equipment.

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Campaign Gear (Act 1-5)

What Matters

• Life — 25+ life per piece
• Resistances — prioritize fire and lightning
• Movement speed — 15%+ on boots
• Weapon DPS — upgrade every 8-10 levels

What to Ignore

• Energy Shield (too low to matter)
• Chaos resistance (negligible this early)
• Perfect rolls (waste of currency)

Upgrade Triggers

• Dying frequently → upgrade defensive gear
• Taking too long to kill → upgrade weapon
• Resistances below 30% → upgrade rings/belt

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Early Maps (Act 6-10 / Tier 1-5)

Stat Priorities

1. Elemental resistances — cap at 75%
2. Life — minimum 300 per piece
3. Movement speed — 25%+ on boots
4. Main damage stat — increased damage modifiers

Gear Sources

• Rare drops from mapping
• Essence crafting on good bases
• Basic trade purchases (1-5 chaos)

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Mid Maps (Tier 6-10)

Stat Priorities

1. Life — 4500+ total
2. Resistances — overcap by 30% for elemental weakness
3. Damage modifiers — 30%+ increased damage per piece
4. Defensive layers — start investing in block/evasion/ES

Upgrade Path

Slot	Investment
Weapon	10-30 chaos
Body Armor	10-20 chaos
Accessories	5-15 chaos
Jewels	5-10 chaos

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Endgame Gear (Tier 11+)

Stat Priorities

1. Life — 5000+ for comfortable mapping
2. Chaos resistance — cap at 75%
3. Damage — maximize scaling
4. Utility — movement speed, flask effect, item rarity

Advanced Mods

• +1 to skill gems
• Increased critical strike multiplier
• Additional projectiles/chains
• Curse on hit

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When to Trade vs Craft

Scenario	Best Approach
Need quick upgrade	Trade
Have good base	Craft
Specific mod needed	Trade
Multiple mods needed	Craft
Cheap items (<5c)	Trade
Expensive items	Craft

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FAQ

How often should I upgrade gear? Every 8-10 levels during campaign, every 15-20 map tiers in endgame.

Is trading or crafting better for gear? For most players, trading is more efficient until you learn advanced crafting.

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Related Guides

• Crafting Guide
• How To Trade
• Endgame Preparation