The Ultimate Skyrim Greatsword Ranking Guide: Unveiling the Most Powerful Blades of All Time!

Highlights

The greatsword is a prominent weapon in Skyrim, with beautiful designs and a variety of materials used for crafting.

The S Tier greatswords possess unparalleled strength, showcasing exceptional attributes such as the ability to absorb health or unleash potent energy blasts. These formidable weapons are classified into various tiers, varying in terms of their damage capabilities and availability. From rare, high-level swords to common ones that can be acquired early in the game, greatswords span a wide range of options.

The greatsword is the signature weapon of the warrior culture of the Nords and distinguishes itself from previous entries in The Elder Scrolls series, where they were known as claymores. Greatswords are abundant throughout Skyrim, wielded by warriors from all walks of life and crafted from various materials.

Skyrim's focus on weaponry means that numerous greatswords, especially those found at higher levels, feature exquisite designs that suggest meticulous craftsmanship. Nonetheless, unlike the staves in Skyrim, unique or named greatswords are few and far between, with the limited options primarily originating from the Dragonborn and Dawnguard DLCs.

S Tier

These exceptional greatswords in Skyrim are unparalleled, obtainable only at the highest levels or from challenging locations like Solstheim. Crafted using only the finest materials, each greatsword possesses extraordinary qualities. However, there is one particular greatsword that stands above all others in Skyrim:

The Ebony Blade - Technically classified as a greatsword due to its size and the benefits it receives from the Two-Handed perk tree. The Ebony Blade of Mephala holds the distinction of being the sole artifact of a Daedric Prince on this prestigious list. Initially weaker, this blade progressively grows in strength with every friendly NPC slain by its edge. At its pinnacle, the Ebony Blade wields an unstoppable 30 Absorb Health attribute and never requires recharging. Furthermore, its lightning-fast attack speed solidifies its reign as the most dominant Two-Handed weapon within the game.

The Bloodskal Blade is a rare greatsword in Skyrim, found on Solstheim. It possesses the same base damage as Glass greatswords but has the unique ability to release a powerful energy blast with each power attack. This blast deals 30 damage, has the ability to penetrate walls, and can hit multiple targets. It is a versatile weapon that can stagger enemies and strike targets that the blade itself does not reach.

The Dragonbone Greatsword, which first appeared in Dawnguard, is the most powerful greatsword in Skyrim, dealing 25 damage. It is crafted from the bones of dragons, known for their resilience. As a result, a greatsword made from dragon bones is both formidable and deadly. Dragonbone greatswords can be obtained throughout Skyrim, particularly by looting Keepers in the Soul Cairn.

Daedric Greatsword - The Daedric greatswords were once the most powerful weapons in the game, and they still remain a formidable and stylish choice. When it hits, it deals a base damage of 24 and features double serrated edges. The blade itself has a striking ebony black color, while a red glow runs through its center and grip, creating a striking contrast. These impressive Daedric blades only become available at level 46 and above, and can be further enhanced with an ebony ingot.

Stalhrim Greatsword - Another exceptional greatsword found in Solstheim, the Stalhrim greatsword is crafted from a unique ore known as stalhrim, which possesses a composition similar to enchanted ice. This ore is incredibly rare and can only be mined using an Ancient Nordic Pickaxe. Stalhrim greatswords are particularly effective when enchanted with Frost damage, as the nature of the ore makes these enchantments 25% stronger than usual.

A Tier

These exceptional greatswords, known as Ebony Greatswords, make their appearance in Skyrim earlier than the highly sought-after S-Tier candidates. Warriors of great skill and valor will find these weapons to be a worthy addition to their arsenal. The Ebony Greatswords, distinguishable for their iconic design, are among the earliest high-level greatswords to be discovered, typically around level 36. Often wielded by draugrs, these greatswords resemble the Blades' swords, featuring a curved blade in the Akaviri style. However, they are notably larger and classified as Two-Handed weapons. Ornate decorations are meticulously carved into both the blade and grip, further enhancing their grandeur.

Glass Greatsword - Misleadingly named, the Glass Greatsword is actually forged from malachite, rather than the architectural material. With a base damage of 21, it becomes available for use at approximately level 27. If desired, the Glass Greatsword can be enhanced using Refined Moonstone ingots.

Elven Greatsword - Among the earliest high-level greatswords to be found, the Elven Greatsword showcases exquisite craftsmanship. It becomes obtainable as early as level 19 and delivers a base damage of 20. Similar to the Glass Greatsword, it can also be upgraded with Refined Moonstone ingots.

B Tier

These greatswords are in the middle of the range, but are worth acquiring. All the greatswords in this category deal 20 base damage, and can be acquired at lower levels:

The legendary Skyforge Steel Greatsword is produced at Whiterun's Skyforge and is widely recognized throughout Skyrim for its exceptional quality. The forge is tended to by Eorlund Gray-Mane, who prioritizes the needs of the Companions and maintains the forge conveniently close to their headquarters. Although the Skyforge Steel Greatsword shares its appearance with the Steel Greatsword, it actually boasts a higher base damage score of 20. This remarkable weapon is available for purchase exclusively from Eorlund Gray-Mane.

Once again, the renowned Skyforge plays a crucial role as the sole forge capable of crafting the Nord Hero Greatsword. A significant upgrade from the Ancient Nord Hero Greatsword, the Nord Hero Greatsword can only be forged upon completing the Companions questline. This exceptional weapon is not only lighter in weight, but also inflicts greater damage compared to other similar greatswords. It is truly a valuable addition to the arsenal of any Harbinger of the Companions.

Nordic Greatsword - A new addition brought by Dragonborn, the Nordic Greatsword incorporates quicksilver and benefits from the Advanced Armors Perk. With a damage output of 20, this elegant weapon possesses both beauty and lethality, particularly when paired with enchantments.

C Tier

These greatswords are found between levels 2-12, and deal up to 19 base damage. They're made from materials that are commonly found throughout Skyrim:

The Dwarven Greatsword, crafted by the ingenious Dwemer, is remarkably effective in combat despite its initial availability at level 12. Infused with their remarkable metalwork, it can be enhanced with Dwarven Metal Ingots or discovered throughout Skyrim, offering a formidable base damage of 19.

Renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, Orcs have established a reputation as highly skilled smiths in Tamriel. The Orcish Greatsword, a testament to their expertise, delivers a powerful blow. Accessible as early as level 6, this weapon inflicts 18 base damage and can be further improved with orichalcum ingots.

The Steel Greatsword is an upgraded version of the Iron Greatswords and is one of the most well-known greatswords in Skyrim. It has a base damage of 17 and can be found starting at level 2. While it may not be as powerful as other greatswords in Skyrim, it is abundant and versatile enough to be relied upon until better alternatives become accessible.

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