With four unique Vault Hunters to choose from in Borderlands 4, deciding which character to play can be overwhelming. Our comprehensive tier list ranks each Vault Hunter based on their abilities, builds, and overall effectiveness in different game scenarios.
S-Tier: The Best Vault Hunters
1. Amon - The Cybernetic Warrior
Why Amon is S-Tier:
- Incredible damage output with cybernetic enhancements
- Versatile skill trees that adapt to any playstyle
- Excellent survivability with defensive abilities
- Strong in both solo and co-op gameplay
Amon's cybernetic abilities make him the most versatile and powerful Vault Hunter. His skill trees offer incredible damage potential while maintaining excellent survivability.
2. Harlowe - The Elemental Siren
Why Harlowe is S-Tier:
- Devastating elemental damage combinations
- Phase abilities provide excellent crowd control
- Strong support capabilities for team play
- Unique elemental interactions
Harlowe's elemental mastery and phase abilities make her incredibly powerful against groups of enemies and bosses alike.
A-Tier: Strong Vault Hunters
3. Rafa - The Beastmaster
Why Rafa is A-Tier:
- Animal companions provide excellent support
- Nature-based abilities offer unique utility
- Good damage output with pet synergies
- Fun and engaging gameplay mechanics
Rafa's beastmaster abilities make him a strong choice for players who enjoy pet-based gameplay and nature-themed abilities.
B-Tier: Solid Vault Hunters
4. Zane - The Operative
Why Zane is B-Tier:
- Gadgets and drones provide tactical advantages
- Good mobility and positioning options
- Requires more skill to master effectively
- Strong in specific scenarios but less versatile
Zane is a solid choice for players who enjoy tactical gameplay, but he requires more skill to use effectively compared to other Vault Hunters.
Character Comparison by Playstyle
Best for Beginners
Amon - His straightforward abilities and high survivability make him perfect for new players.
Best for Solo Play
Amon - Excellent self-sufficiency and damage output make him ideal for solo adventures.
Best for Co-op
Harlowe - Her support abilities and elemental effects work great in team scenarios.
Best for Endgame
Amon - His versatility and damage potential make him the strongest choice for endgame content.
Skill Tree Recommendations
Amon Builds
- Cybernetics Tree: Focus on defensive abilities and survivability
- Vengeance Tree: Maximize damage output and offensive capabilities
- Calamity Tree: Balanced approach with utility and damage
Harlowe Builds
- Chroma Tree: Elemental damage and status effects
- Flux Generator Tree: Phase abilities and crowd control
- HALO Tree: Support abilities and team buffs
Final Verdict
While all Vault Hunters are viable and fun to play, Amon stands out as the most powerful and versatile choice for most players. His combination of high damage output, excellent survivability, and versatile skill trees make him the top pick for both beginners and experienced players.
However, the best character is ultimately the one you enjoy playing the most. Each Vault Hunter offers a unique playstyle and experience, so don't be afraid to try them all and find the one that suits your preferences.
For detailed character guides and build recommendations, check out our individual character pages for Amon, Harlowe, Rafa, and Zane.