Best Sword Characters Tier List in Genshin Impact (2026)
Sword characters are the most common weapon type in Genshin Impact, and they include some of the game’s most beloved and powerful units. From lightning-fast DPS carries to indispensable supports, there’s a sword user for every team. Here’s how they all rank.
Ranking Criteria
Characters are evaluated on damage output, team utility, versatility across content, and performance at C0 with accessible weapons. We consider both meta endgame and general gameplay value.
S-Tier: The Sword Elite
Furina transformed the meta upon her release. Her Salon Members deal off-field damage based on HP fluctuations, and her burst provides a massive team-wide damage and healing bonus that scales as party HP changes. She’s a universal upgrade to nearly any team.
Ayaka is the premier Cryo DPS for Freeze teams. Her burst unleashes a devastating blizzard that shreds grouped enemies, and her sprint-based Cryo infusion keeps her damage consistent. She defines the Freeze archetype.
Kazuha is the most versatile Anemo support in the game. He groups enemies, buffs elemental damage based on his EM, and swirls elements with beautiful efficiency. He fits into virtually any elemental team and makes every rotation smoother.
A-Tier: Outstanding Options
Alhaitham is a top-tier Dendro DPS who generates mirrors for sustained Dendro-infused attacks. He shines in Spread and Quicken teams with consistent damage output and a satisfying, skill-expressive playstyle.
Ayato delivers rapid Hydro slashes during his skill window. He’s a clean, easy-to-play Hydro DPS who fits into Vaporize, Bloom, and Hyperbloom teams. His burst also provides useful off-field Hydro application.
Xingqiu is a cornerstone four-star who provides off-field Hydro application, damage reduction, and interruption resistance through his Rain Swords. He’s one of the most-used characters in Spiral Abyss across all player levels.
B-Tier: Solid Contributors
Keqing has found renewed strength in Aggravate teams where her rapid Electro attacks trigger consistent bonus damage. She’s fast, stylish, and more relevant than she’s been since launch.
Kuki Shinobu provides Electro application and healing simultaneously, making her the ideal driver for Hyperbloom teams. Her value skyrocketed with the introduction of Dendro reactions.
Jean combines Anemo crowd control, healing, and cleansing in one versatile package. She’s never the best at any single role but her jack-of-all-trades nature makes her a reliable flex option.
C-Tier: Limited Meta Value
Kaeya is a dependable early-game Cryo support with decent off-field application from his burst. He falls off in late-game teams but remains a serviceable option for newer accounts.
Traveler adapts to every element but rarely excels in any single one. Dendro Traveler stands out as a usable Dendro support, but most other forms are outclassed by dedicated characters.
Final Thoughts
The sword character pool is incredibly deep, with three S-tier units that each define their own playstyle. Furina, Kazuha, and Ayaka represent some of the best investments you can make in Genshin Impact. Four-star standout Xingqiu also deserves early investment on every account.
