If you’re finding it hard to survive or clear enemies quickly in Path of Exile 2, it might be time to take a closer look at your gear. Many players struggle in maps not because of lack of skill, but because their PoE 2 items simply aren’t strong enough. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to upgrade your gear, where to get better PoE 2 items, and which currencies to use to improve your mapping experience. Whether you’re a new exile or a returning veteran, these tips can make a huge difference.

Step 1: Check Your Item Bases
Not all items are created equal. Before you even start crafting, make sure your item bases are appropriate for your build. For example, if you’re playing a melee character, you’ll want high armor bases like Full Plate or Gladiator Plate. If you’re a caster, look for energy shield gear like Sorcerer Boots or Vaal Regalia. Using the wrong item base can hold back your performance, even if the affixes are good.
Step 2: Use the Right Currency
PoE 2 items can be upgraded using several kinds of currency, each with a special use. If you want to improve a rare item, use an Orb of Alchemy to turn a normal item into a rare. Then use Chaos Orbs to reroll its affixes until you get something suitable. For more control, try Essences (like Screaming Essence of Greed) to guarantee a certain mod, or use Orb of Annulment to remove a bad mod from an otherwise good item.
One helpful tip: before you spend currency, test crafts on cheap bases. Once you understand what you’re doing, buy PoE 2 items with good starting stats and invest your currency wisely.
Step 3: Don’t Forget Your Resistances
In maps, elemental damage gets serious. Make sure your fire, cold, and lightning resistances are each at least 75%. Use Chromatic Orbs to roll the right socket colors, and Jeweller’s Orbs to get enough sockets. If you’re still lacking resists, buy PoE 2 items with pre-rolled resistances on the trade market to save time and currency.
Step 4: Use Bench Crafting for a Boost
In your hideout, use the crafting bench to add missing stats to your items. For example, if you find boots with movement speed and life but no resistance, you can add a resistance mod at the bench. This is a cheap way to fill in your defenses and make your mapping experience smoother.
Step 5: Buy What You Can’t Craft
Crafting is fun, but it’s not always efficient. Sometimes, the best solution is to buy PoE 2 items from other players. Search for gear with the exact mods you need—whether that’s critical strike chance, spell suppression, or high life rolls. Use trusted trading platforms to make sure your purchase is safe and worth it.
Final Tip: Upgrade Often
Your gear should evolve as you progress through maps. Don’t get too attached to old items. If you’re stuck or dying too much, it’s likely time to upgrade. Even small changes—like more life, more resistances, or increased damage—can make a big difference.
By choosing the right PoE 2 items, using the correct currency, and knowing when to buy PoE 2 items instead of crafting, you’ll find your mapping experience becomes smoother, faster, and far more fun.