Kaeya’s Armory: Gearing Up Mondstadt’s Cavalry Captain (Without Breaking the Bank)
You’re building Kaeya. Good choice. Mondstadt’s cavalry captain deals serious Cryo damage. But finding weapons in Genshin Impact can feel like a winter storm. Don’t worry! We’re here to review Kaeya’s weapon options, from basic 3-stars to sought-after 5-stars. And yes, we’ll answer: “Is there a 3-star weapon that *doesn’t* make me weep?”
3-Star Wonders (and Maybe a Dud or Two) for Kaeya
Let’s begin with the basics. Early game, you have a range of 3-star weapons. The key question is, can any of these actually help Kaeya? Yes, surprisingly, a few can work well until you find better options.
Harbinger of Dawn: The 3-Star MVP
If 3-star weapons had a popularity contest, Harbinger of Dawn would win. Why? This sword excels for damage dealers with high HP. Its passive boosts Crit Rate and Crit DMG when HP stays above 90%. For a Cryo DPS Kaeya, especially early in the game, it’s very effective. Plus, you get one for free during Kaeya’s story quest. How awesome is that?
Dark Iron Sword: The Liyue Special (One of a Kind!)
Ever seen a weapon so rare, there’s only one in the game? Meet the Dark Iron Sword. This 3-star item offers Elemental Mastery as a secondary stat and boosts ATK% when you trigger an Electro reaction. While Kaeya isn’t focused on Elemental Mastery, that ATK% boost is still useful with Electro supports. You get it by talking to Chen the Sharp in Liyue Harbor. Missed it? Too bad; there’s no second chance. Don’t use this special item as weapon fodder!
Traveler’s Handy Sword: Chest Loot and Prologue Prize
The Traveler’s Handy Sword has a very generic name. It’s a 3-star sword with Energy Recharge as its secondary stat. This helps Kaeya use his Elemental Burst more often. You can find this weapon in chests around Mondstadt or get one during the Archon Quest “Crash Course.” It’s okay for the early game, but you might find better options quickly.
White Tassel: Spear for a Sword Guy?
Why mention White Tassel? Well, it’s a 3-star weapon. Although it’s a spear, not usable by Kaeya, it’s worth noting. Some characters (like Hu Tao) can use it effectively. Just don’t equip it on Kaeya unless you’re aiming for an unconventional unarmed build. Good luck with that!
Kaeya’s “Signature” Sword: Favonius…or is it Harbinger?
Let’s talk about the Favonius Sword. It’s practically synonymous with the Knights of Favonius. Is it Kaeya’s signature weapon? Thematically, yes! As Captain of the Cavalry, it fits well. Lore-wise, it matches. As for gameplay? It’s decent. The Energy Recharge works well. Still, it’s not going to make Kaeya a powerhouse.
Interestingly, the game gives the Traveler Harbinger of Dawn during Kaeya’s quest. Maybe Mihoyo suggests that sometimes, great tools are unexpected, even if they are just 3-stars. Something to ponder.
Stepping Up: 4-Star and 5-Star Swords for Kaeya
While 3-stars are useful, you’ll want something stronger over time. Let’s explore 4-star and 5-star swords that can boost Kaeya. We’ll also cover Free-to-Play (F2P) options, since your Primogems are valuable.
4-Star F2P Favorites: Blackcliff and More
The Blackcliff Sword is a top choice for F2P players. You can obtain it from the Starglitter Exchange. It has Crit DMG as a secondary stat and boosts ATK after you defeat enemies. This makes it very effective for Kaeya, especially against weaker foes. As
Other notable 4-star options:
- The Flute: ATK% substat and a passive for extra damage. A solid generalist choice.
- Sacrificial Sword: Energy Recharge and resets Elemental Skill cooldown chance. Ideal for support-focused Kaeya needing Skill spamming.
- Favonius Sword (again): A reliable Energy Recharge weapon, especially for consistent Burst uptime.
5-Star Supremacy: Mistsplitter, Jade Cutter, and Beyond
If you seek the best, 5-star swords excel. These weapons offer high base stats and potent passives, significantly enhancing Kaeya’s damage. According to
- Mistsplitter Reforged: Regarded as Kaeya’s “best in slot,” especially for Freeze teams. High base ATK and a large Cryo DMG Bonus. Essential for Cryo Kaeya.
- Primordial Jade Cutter: Best for Reverse Melt and Sub-DPS builds. HP% substat and ATK bonus based on Max HP make Kaeya sturdy and boost damage.
- Light of Foliar Inquisition: A strong 5-star option for Freeze and Reverse Melt. Crit DMG substat and passive enhancing Elemental Skill and Burst damage.
- Aquila Favonia: If you’re building Physical Kaeya, Aquila Favonia can be a strong choice. Physical DMG Bonus substat and a healing passive with AoE damage.
Weapon Mechanics: Leveling Up Your Arsenal
A quick note on weapon mechanics! Like their higher-tier counterparts, 3-star weapons can reach Level 90. Don’t underestimate leveling, even for a 3-star weapon. Each level improves base stats, enhancing your character’s overall power. You need Weapon EXP materials (like Weapon Enhancement Ores) to upgrade them. For details on 3-star Weapon EXP needs, check the
So there you have it! From simple 3-stars to remarkable 5-stars, Kaeya has an array of weapon choices. Experiment, enjoy, and remember, even a basic Harbinger of Dawn can carry you farther than expected. Now go freeze some hilichurls stylishly!
