DexertoWhen it comes to close-range duels, SMGs dominate Warzone’s meta. For this reason, using a powerful submachine gun equipped with the best loadout is a must to win more games.
While meta Assault Rifles and LMGs are great options for long-range gunfights, this class is far superior up close. Not only do they kill faster, but they also offer better mobility and handling for getting the jump on enemies.
Season 5 Reloaded didn’t add any new submachine guns, but the various buffs and nerfs have shaken up the meta. So, here are the best SMGs to help you rack up kills and win more Warzone matches.
Best SMG loadouts in Warzone
1. C9
Dexerto- Muzzle: Compensator
- Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
- Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
- Magazine: Extended Mag 1
- Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip
The C9 has been one of the best SMGs in Warzone for some time and it’s back on top in Season 5, despite a small nerf in the Reloaded update. Its main strength is its lack of weaknesses, being a remarkably well-rounded weapon that is as versatile as it is effective.
It also just feels really good, as its low recoil and clean iron sights make it easier to use than any other option in the current meta.
Just be sure to equip the Vertical Foregrip to reduce horizontal recoil. Otherwise, this C9 loadout will bounce around a lot and be hard to keep on target in those stressful moments.
2. Ladra
Activision / Dexerto- Muzzle: Compensator
- Barrel: Long Barrel
- Underbarrel: Ranger Foregrip
- Magazine: Extended Mag II
- Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip
While it’s no longer the best SMG in Warzone, the Ladra is still a fantastic option with a rapid fire rate, low recoil, great mobility, and a fast TTK. It’s not quite as powerful as it once was and has had its crown stolen by the LC10, but it’s still not to be underestimated.
Related
Whether you play Battle Royale, Ranked Play, or Resurgence, it’s hard to go wrong with the Ladra, so check out the best loadout attachments.
3. LC10
Activision / Dexerto- Muzzle: Suppressor
- Barrel: Long Barrel
- Underbarrel: Ranger Foregrip
- Magazine: Extended Mag 2
- Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip
The LC10 is still one of the best SMGs in Warzone Season 5, but a slight nerf has knocked it off the top spot. With extremely low recoil, great mobility, and a fast TTK, there’s almost no reason not to use it.
While the other SMGs on this list are powerful and can compete, if you’re looking for sheer TTK that gives you the best chance of winning gunfights, then look no further than the LC10, and be sure to check out everything you need for the best loadout.
4. KSV
Dexerto- Muzzle: Compensator
- Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
- Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
- Magazine: Extended Mag 1
- Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip
The KSV is still a fantastic option because it’s extremely well-rounded, combining everything you could possibly want into a deadly package.
For starters, it has a rapid TTK that melts enemies in the blink of an eye, and it boasts great mobility that lets you tear around the map. While it’ll probably still lose to the LC10 in face-to-face gunfights, it’s still deadly in the right hands.
For a full breakdown of how to dominate matches, check out our best KSV loadout.
5. Saug
Dexerto / Activision- Muzzle: Compensator
- Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
- Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
- Magazine: Extended Mag 1
- Stock: Light Stock
The Saug was a solid pick before Verdansk returned, but a healthy buff has taken it straight into the meta. Its fire rate is one of the fastest in the category, giving it an incredible TTK if you can land all of your shots at short range.
It’s a little more unwieldy than the other meta options, but when it comes to a sniper support weapon designed purely for aggressive players, it’s well worth your time. Don’t take our word for it, though; use this meta Saug loadout and see for yourself.
All Warzone SMGs ranked
Meta analysis
ActivisionBlack Ops 6 guns are still comfortably the best weapons in Warzone right now, and the C9 stands out above all other close-range options. Whether you want an aggressive powerhouse to clear buildings or a sniper support that covers you at mid-range, look no further.
However, you also have the option to use the LC10, KSV, and Ladra, all of which are strong options right now. They each have their own strengths, so it’s worth giving these guns a go and seeing what works best for you. After all, the margins between them are extremely tight, so there’s no incorrect choice.
Looking for another Warzone gun to partner with your SMG loadout? Check out the best one-shot snipers and the best controller settings to help your aim.