Helldivers 2 continues to reward players who master the delicate balance between mobility, firepower, and teamwork. One of the most common questions among players is: which weapon loadouts maximize damage per second (DPS) without leaving you vulnerable? After countless missions and experimenting with combinations, here’s a rundown of the top DPS weapon loadouts that will keep you efficient and deadly on the battlefield.

1. RS-422 Railgun + Fragmentation Grenades

For players who love high single-target damage, the RS-422 Railgun remains an excellent choice. Pairing it with fragmentation grenades allows you to handle both armored foes and swarms. The key is timing your shots for maximum impact while staying on the move to avoid being surrounded. This setup shines in mid-range skirmishes and is particularly deadly against heavy enemy units.

2. GR-8 Recoilless Rifle + Smoke Launcher

If you prefer explosive area damage, the GR-8 Recoilless Rifle is your go-to. Its high DPS output can obliterate clusters of enemies, especially when used in tight corridors or chokepoints. Adding a smoke launcher gives you defensive flexibility, letting you reposition without taking unnecessary damage. This combo is perfect for aggressive players who want to dominate objectives quickly.

3. Helldiver Shotgun + Gas Grenades

For close-quarters chaos, the classic Helldiver Shotgun paired with gas grenades is hard to beat. The shotgun handles immediate threats with brutal efficiency, while gas grenades can thin out enemy numbers or control space. This setup is most effective in urban or facility missions where tight corners and narrow hallways are common.

4. Twin Plasma Rifles + Stun Mines

For players who enjoy sustained DPS with crowd control, twin plasma rifles offer rapid-fire precision that can melt enemies in seconds. Coupling this with stun mines allows you to control enemy movements while maintaining constant fire. This loadout excels in missions where swarm management and continuous pressure are essential.

5. Adaptive Loadout – Mix and Match

For the versatile player, mixing high-DPS ranged weapons with grenades or mines provides a flexible approach. Adapting your loadout to the mission type ensures that you can handle both swarms and heavy units without compromising damage output. Always consider your team composition and the specific threats of the mission when customizing this setup.

Tips for Optimizing DPS Loadouts

Focus on weapon synergy rather than raw numbers. A balanced approach often outperforms purely high-damage setups.

Use terrain to your advantage. Chokepoints, high ground, and cover can drastically improve your DPS efficiency.

Don’t neglect secondary gadgets like grenades or mines—they can dramatically boost effective damage per second.

For players looking to fully optimize their Helldivers 2 experience, acquiring additional resources can make experimenting with these loadouts much easier. Many players turn to U4GM to buy helldivers 2 super credits or buy helldivers 2 medals cheap, providing the flexibility to try multiple weapons and upgrade their gear without the grind.

Ultimately, the best DPS loadout is one that complements your playstyle while maximizing damage output in every scenario. Whether you prefer precision strikes, explosive chaos, or sustained fire, there’s a loadout on this list that can turn you into a force your enemies won’t forget.