In Path of Exile 2, the Artificer's Orb is a vital currency item that allows players to add sockets to their weapons and armor, unlocking the ability to equip runes that boost character skills and attributes. Mastering the use of Artificer's Orbs is essential for customizing your build and maximizing your character’s potential.

What Does the Artificer's Orb Do?

The primary function of the Artificer's Orb is to add a rune socket to eligible gear. Most weapons and armor pieces can have one socket, except for body armor and two-handed weapons, which can hold up to two sockets. These sockets enable you to insert runes or soul cores, which grant various bonuses such as increased damage, resistances, or utility effects. This system replaces the traditional socketing method from the original game, emphasizing strategic gear enhancement.

How to Obtain Artificer's Orbs

There are two main ways to get Artificer's Orbs. The first is through random drops from monsters, chests, and destructible objects, though these drops are relatively rare. The second and more reliable method involves salvaging socketed gear at the Salvage Bench. You unlock the Salvage Bench early in Act One by completing the "Finding the Forge" side quest.

When you salvage gear that already has sockets, you receive Artificer's Shards. Collecting ten shards automatically crafts one Artificer's Orb. To maximize shard collection, prioritize looting and salvaging items with visible sockets—indicated by white squares next to the item’s name. The more sockets an item has, the more shards you gain from salvaging it. If you’re in a rush to enhance your gear, consider checking for poe 2 currency for sale from reputable sources to speed up your progress.

Using the Artificer's Orb

Using an Artificer's Orb is straightforward. Right-click the orb in your inventory, then left-click the item you want to socket. The item gains one additional rune socket, up to its maximum allowed number. This process enables you to equip more runes, significantly enhancing your gear’s effectiveness.

Strategic Socketing Tips

Since Artificer's Orbs are valuable, it’s wise to use them on high-impact gear pieces, especially early in the game. Focus on socketing your primary weapons and body armor first, as these pieces can hold two sockets, allowing for more rune combinations. Plan your rune setup ahead of time to ensure you invest orbs where they will provide the greatest benefit.

Enhancing Your Build

Sockets allow for greater customization by equipping runes that complement your skills and playstyle. For example, offensive runes can boost elemental or physical damage, while defensive runes improve resistances or life regeneration. The ability to add sockets with Artificer's Orbs means you can tailor your gear to suit evolving builds throughout your PoE 2 journey.

Mastering the use of Artificer's Orbs is a cornerstone of effective gear crafting in Path of Exile 2. By efficiently obtaining orbs through salvaging socketed gear and wisely socketing your weapons and armor, you unlock powerful rune combinations that elevate your character’s performance. Whether you’re progressing through the campaign or tackling endgame content, understanding socket crafting with Artificer's Orbs is key to maximizing your build’s potential. And if you want to streamline your preparation, you can always buy poe 2 currency to stay ahead without heavy farming.