Helldivers 2 Arc Thrower vs Quasar Cannon Comparison

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When it comes to heavy weapons in Helldivers 2, few spark as much debate as the Arc Thrower and the Quasar Cannon. Both are capable of wiping out tough enemies and turning the tide of battle, but they shine in different situations. Choosing between them often comes down to your playstyle and the type of missions you’re running.

The Arc Thrower

The Arc Thrower is one of the most versatile energy weapons in the game. It fires a chain of electricity that can hit multiple enemies at once, making it excellent for crowd control. The biggest advantage of the Arc Thrower is its ability to ignore armor on many enemies, meaning you don’t have to waste time switching to explosives or grenades. It’s particularly effective when you’re swarmed by smaller units or fighting in tight spaces where its chain lightning can bounce between multiple targets.

The downside is that the Arc Thrower requires careful aim and timing. Its charge mechanic means you can’t always fire instantly, and a mistimed shot can leave you exposed. It also has limited range compared to other heavy weapons, so it’s less useful in open areas against distant threats.

The Quasar Cannon

The Quasar Cannon takes a different approach. It delivers high-impact, long-range blasts that can shred armored targets. This makes it a strong choice for missions with large enemies such as Chargers or heavily fortified objectives. Its damage output is reliable, and the fact that it doesn’t rely on chain lightning means it’s less situational than the Arc Thrower in open combat zones.

However, the Quasar Cannon isn’t without drawbacks. Its charge time can feel punishing when enemies are closing in quickly, and the blast radius can sometimes be tricky in chaotic fights. It’s a weapon that rewards precision and patience, especially when used to break down high-value targets instead of waves of fodder enemies.

Which One Should You Use?

If you prefer holding choke points, defending objectives, or clearing swarms, the Arc Thrower is your best friend. It thrives in chaotic situations where enemies group together. On the other hand, if your squad needs a dedicated anti-armor solution, the Quasar Cannon is more reliable and safer for long-range engagements. Many players carry one of these weapons while their teammates cover the other role, ensuring the squad can handle both hordes and heavy units effectively.


Both the Arc Thrower and Quasar Cannon are top-tier weapons in their own right, and neither completely overshadows the other. The key is understanding your mission goals and team composition. Whether you want to lock down an area with chain lightning or punch holes through armored threats, both weapons can deliver.

For players looking to expand their arsenal, there are plenty of ways to buy Helldivers 2 items to tailor your loadout. Some communities even highlight spots where you can buy Helldivers 2 items cheap, helping you try out different strategies without grinding endlessly. Whichever path you choose, these two weapons remain among the most satisfying to use in the game.