From shields to gadgets, understand what equipment does in ARC Raiders so you can run smarter, not just harder.
ARC Raiders equipment is divided into five categories: Augments, Shields, Healing Items, Quick-Use Items, and Grenades.
Each category affects your carry capacity, protection level, utility options, and combat readiness. Higher-tier shields often require specific augments to be compatible.
ARC Raiders: All Types of Equipment
| Equipment type | Purpose | Key considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Augments | Boost carry space, weight capacity, and shield compatibility | Trade-offs: some improve utility but reduce mobility or weight allowance |
| Shields | Primary protection against ARCs and raiders | Heavier shields slow you down; high tiers require certain augments |
| Healing items | Restore health, shield energy, or stamina | Match healing type to your playstyle and expected danger |
| Quick-Use items | Utility and tactical items for traversal, scanning, traps, or looting | Limited slots — choose based on mission plan |
| Grenades | Offensive or utility throwables | Different grenades suit PvP, ARC fights, or stealthy escapes |
Augments
Augments are passive or active modifiers you equip before heading topside. They influence how much you can carry, how heavy your shield can be, and what extra perks you gain.
What they do
- Increase carry space for loot
- Add weight capacity for heavy shields or multiple quick-use items
- Unlock compatibility for higher-tier shields
- Some augments offer extra slots or mobility in exchange for weight penalties
Tips
- Early game: prioritise carry space.
- Combat-heavy runs: invest in weight-capacity augments.
- Always check trade-offs before equipping.
Shields
Shields are your first line of defence and determine how well you survive ARC encounters and player engagements.
Role
- Absorb damage before health breaks
- Vary from lightweight mobile shields to heavy high-tier options
- Certain shields require specific augments to equip
Key points
- More protection = more weight
- Heavier shields are better for tank playstyles
- Lightweight shields help in mobility-focused looting runs
Healing items
Healing items keep you alive during long raids or after sudden fights.
Purpose
- Restore health
- Recharge shield energy
- Replenish stamina
Strategy
- Combine health and shield restoration for balance
- Solo runners may benefit from stamina-based healing
- Heal during cover breaks to avoid being caught off-guard
Quick-Use items (Utility + Gadgets)
Quick-Use items are runtime tools that help with traversal, scouting, combat setups, or looting.
What they cover
- Utility items: traversal, movement, looting assistance
- Gadgets: traps, distraction tools, scanners, deployables
Usage tips
- Pick only what fits your objective; slots are limited
- Ziplines, hooks, or traversal gear are great for vertical zones
- Traps and scanners suit PvP-prone areas
Grenades
Grenades provide burst damage or tactical disruption.
Role
- Offensive grenades: direct damage to ARCs or players
- Utility grenades: smoke, noise, cover, distraction
Key considerations
- Heavy ARC enemies require explosive damage
- Smoke and noise grenades can help escape PvP
- Carrying too many grenades adds to load weight
