The original Warzone bolsters an impressive arsenal of weapons spanning multiple categories, SMGs are no exception. So if you’re looking for the best SMGs to use in it then this is the place to be. In this guide, we ranked every Warzone SMG and picked out the strongest meta loadouts for each one.
Warzone Caldera’s close range encounters are dominated by weapons from the SMG category. But every weapon has it’s weakness, so keep an Assault Rifle in the second weapons slot for those medium range engagements.
This hyper-aggressive playstyle may not be for every player, but having an SMG you can rely on in Warzone is incredibly important. Unlike the AR class, the SMG category is not that varied, and many players often gravitate towards only a couple of picks.Of course, that hasn’t stopped certain loadouts from cropping up. To help you increase your win rate in Warzone, we’ve ranked all the best Warzone SMGs and the attachments you should be using with them.
Remember, if you’re ready to dive into Warzone 2 and want to check out the best SMGs in the sequel to dominate Al Mazrah, be sure to check out our list of the best meta SMGs to use in Warzone 2.
What is the best SMG in Warzone?
The best SMG in Warzone right now is the Armaguerra 43. This efficient gun has an extremely fast TTK and also has incredible mobility making it a top-tier pick on Caldera, Rebirth Island, and Fortune’s Keep.See the latest Call Of Duty deals here
26. M1912
ActvisionThe M1912 has great damage and a good amount of bullets in Warzone.
Best M1912 Warzone loadout
Muzzle: Recoil Booster
Barrel: CBC 12″ Cooling
Optic: Slate Reflector
Stock: CGC S Adjustable
Magazine: 9mm 50 Round Drums
Underbarrel: M1941 Hand Stop
Ammunition: Hollow Point
Rear Grip: Polymer Grip
Perk1: Fleet
Perk2: Quick
The M1912 SMG, also known as the Tommy Gun, in Warzone arrived as a part of the Vanguard integration, and it didn’t disappoint. This weapon boasts an especially fast fire rate, which will be favored among many long-time Warzone players.
This loadout simply increases this weapon’s accuracy, mobility, and recoil control. If you’re a fan of an aggressive playstyle, this SMG is a must-pick.
25. PP19 Bizon
Activision The PP19 may lack the power of the top picks, but it does have a little extra range.
Best Bizon Warzone loadout
Muzzle: Monolithic Suppressor
Barrel: 8.7” Steel
Laser: Tac Laser
Stock: Corvus Skeleton Stock
Rear Grip: Stippled Grip Tape
The PP19 Bizon became a common sight across Verdansk when it was introduced as floor loot back in Season 4. Since then, this SMG has taken a dive in the popularity rankings.Off meta guns aren’t exactly known for their competitive nature, however, a damage buff in the Season 2 Reloaded patch made the community start experimenting with the Bizon.
Our loadout focuses on maximizing the weapon’s damage while retaining plenty of mobility, making it a great non-meta pick for fans of Fortune’s Keep.
24. P90
Activision The P90 is one of the most underrated weapons in the game.
Best P90 Warzone loadout
Muzzle: Monolithic Suppressor
Barrel: FORGE TAC Retribution
Optic: PBX Holo 7 Sight
Stock: FORGE TAC CQB Comb
Rear Grip: Rubberized Grip Tape
Unlike the other SMGs on the list, the P90 is actually capable of taking down mid-range targets. Its high rate of fire and minimal recoil will keep your shots accurate, while also keeping you competitive in close-quarter environments. The P90 remains an underrated gun that rarely sees play in Warzone However, if you’re willing to try out another SMG, then you might find some luck with this classic Modern Warfare SMG.
23. LAPA
Treyarch/ActivisionThe LAPA is one of the best Sniper supports in the game.
Best LAPA Warzone loadout
Muzzle: Agency Suppressor
Ammunition: Salvo 45 Round Fast Mag
Laser: Tiger Team Spotlight
Optic: Microflex LED
Stock: SAS Combat Stock
While the LAPA goes under the radar for a lot of players, this weapon did previously make a good sniper support weapon. This is partly down to its high ADS speed and overall mobility.
Unfortunately, it simply can’t compete with a lot of the meta options that offer a better TTK.
However, if you’re looking for a gun to pair with your 3-Line Rifle or Gorenko, this could be the perfect solution that can effectively take out enemies at close to medium range.
22. Fennec
Activision / Infinity WardThis SMG is lethal at catching your enemies in close-quarter fights.
Best Fennec Warzone loadout
Barrel: ZLR 18″ Deadfall
Laser: Tac Laser
Perk: Slight of Hand
Underbarrel: Operator Foregrip
Ammunition: 40 Round Drum Mags
Featuring a vast array of features that makes this gun a decent choice for a non-meta run, the Fennec is a fun SMG to utilize in your Warzone Season 5 Reloaded loadouts.
The Fennec’s easy-to-manage recoil pattern, high rate of fire, and exceptional hip-fire will see you through many sticky situations. These attachments will push this Modern Warfare gun to its very limits.
21. AUG
Activision Modern Warfare’s AUG is fully auto and performs more like an AR than an SMG.
Best AUG Warzone loadout
Muzzle: Monolithic Suppressor
Laser: Tac Laser
Stock: FORGE TAC CQB Comb
Rear Grip: FORGE TAC CQB Comb
Ammunition: 5.56 NATO 60-Round Drums
While Modern Warfare’s AUG had a brief stint in the meta spotlight, it was quickly overshadowed by Warzone’s best Assault Rifles. Despite this, the reliable SMG boasts decent accuracy and range, making it an incredibly versatile option.
The Modern Warfare version performs very differently when compared to its Cold War cousin. There are no burst fire rounds to be found here – instead, this variant enables players to go full-auto. If you’re after a highly mobile SMG, then you will be disappointed, but the range and accuracy do make it an underrated option.
20. AK-74u
Activision The AK-74u has risen in popularity.
Best AK-74u Warzone loadout
Muzzle: GRU Suppressor
Barrel: 10.3″ Task Force
Stock: Spetsnaz PKM Stock
Underbarrel: Spetsnaz Grip
Ammunition: 40 Rnd Drum
The AK-74u has always been a reliable choice among SMG enthusiasts. This deadly weapon rewards hyper-aggressive plays, while also giving players tremendous amounts of accuracy. To make matters even better, the AK-74u also has a fairly decent damage range.
The AK-47’s sibling may have dropped a few places over time, but don’t be surprised if you see this build occasionally crop up across Warzone Season 5 Reloaded.
19. LC10
ActivisionThe LC10 has excellent mobility and accuracy.
Best LC10 Warzone loadout
Muzzle: Agency Suppressor
Barrel: 13.9” Task Force
Laser: Tiger Team Spotlight
Stock: Raider Stock
Ammunition: STANAG 55 Rnd
The LC10 features fantastic accuracy, great mobility, decent close-quarters damage, and a high fire rate. To top things off this pint-sized SMG also has fantastic handling, which makes gunning for those all-important headshots a breeze.
Having an SMG that also has little extra range damage can also help secure more kills when you’re low on AR ammo or scrambling for your primary.
18. Sten
ActivisionThe Sten is a solid pick in Warzone Season 5.
Best Sten Warzone loadout
Muzzle: Recoil Booster
Barrel: Hockenson 348mm B13S
Optic: Slate Reflector
Stock: Gawain Para
Underbarrel: M1941 Hand Stop
Magazine:7.62 Gorenko 36 Round Mags
Ammunition: Hollow Point
Rear Grip: Taped Grip
Perk1: Acrobatic
Perk2: Quick
The Sten in Warzone is an SMG that boasts a fast fire rate, moderate damage, and easily controllable recoil — perfect for players who prefer aggression and racking up close-quarter kills.
Our loadout helps to improve this weapon’s accuracy and mobility even further, while also giving you more bullets in the mag to potentially take out more opponents and claim victory in Warzone Season 5 Reloaded.
17. Cold War PPSH
Activision / TreyarchThis particular PPSH build is incredibly potent.
Best PPSH Warzone loadout
Muzzle: GRU Suppressor
Barrel: 15.7″ Task Force
Stock: Raider Stock
Underbarrel: Spetsnaz Grip
Ammunition: 55 Rnd Drum
Warzone and Cold War’s Season 3 update brought with it the PPSH. This iconic WWII SMG comes packed with an incredible rate of fire and has barely any recoil when kitted out with the best attachments. While the gun’s damage per shot may be on the low side, its rapid-fire and large ammo capacity enable players to quickly chew through many a foe.
Simply attach the Gru Suppressor, Spetsnaz Grip, and 55 Rnd Drum and you have an SMG that is capable of some truly devastating things. It’s certainly not hard to see why the PPSH has quickly risen through the rankings.
16. MAC-10
Activision / TreyarchThe MAC-10 is one of the most popular SMGs in Warzone.
Best MAC-10 Warzone loadout
Muzzle: Agency Suppressor
Barrel: 5.9” Task Force
Laser: Tiger Team Spotlight
Stock: Raider Stock
Underbarrel: Field Agent Grip
The MAC-10 is no longer the powerhouse it used to be, but it can still hold its own with the correct build. Although small in stature, this weapon is an absolute beast, featuring an incredible rate of fire, good damage, and staggeringly accurate hip fire.
Our loadout above increases the MAC-10’s attributes even further, streamlining the spray-and-pray-type recoil with the Field Agent Grip and Agency Suppressor.
15. OTs 9
Activision The OTs 9 packs a mean punch in Warzone.
Best OTs 9 loadout
Muzzle: GRU Suppressor
Barrel: 8.1” Task Force
Laser: Tiger Team Spotlight
Stock: KGB Skeletal Stock
Ammunition: VDV 40 Rnd Fast Mag
This lightning-fast SMG may no longer be the most popular, but that hasn’t stopped it from being used by both casual and competitive players alike.
With its incredible accuracy and added damage range, it’s not hard to see why this SMG continues to get ever-close to the top 10.
14. Bullfrog
Activision / TreyarchThe Bullfrog can barrage foes with a never-ending hail of bullets.
Best Bullfrog Warzone loadout
Muzzle: GRU Suppressor
Barrel: 7.4” Task Force
Laser: Tiger Team Spotlight
Stock: KGB Skeletal Stock
Underbarrel: Bruiser Grip
The Bullfrog’s massive magazine and decent range damage make this Cold War SMG incredibly viable. This deadly gun has proven itself in many close and medium-range scenarios, making it a highly versatile SMG pick in Warzone.
After all, having to constantly reload can lead to some rather frustrating deaths. Fortunately, the Bullfrog gives you enough rounds to down multiple foes in just a single magazine. Simply hold down the trigger in close-quarter fights and watch the bullets fly.
13. MP7
Activision The MP7 has been a top pick since Warzone launched.
Best MP7 Warzone loadout
Muzzle: Monolithic Suppressor
Barrel: FSS Recon
Laser: Tac Laser
Underbarrel: Merc Foregrip
Ammunition 60 Round Mags
You will find the odd MP7 loadout here and there in Warzone and while it may not deal as much damage as the MP5, it is still a worthy choice. Unlike most guns in Modern Warfare, the MP7 delivers highly accurate hip fire, making it great for those moments when you don’t have time to ADS. Whether you’re tired of using any of the top three SMGs or just want to melt squads with the hip fire, then the MP7 is a great choice.
12. Owen Gun
ActivisionThe Owen Gun is a versatile SMG in Warzone.
Best Owen Gun Warzone loadout
Muzzle: Recoil Booster
Barrel: Gawain 188mm Shrouded
Optic: Slate Reflector
Stock: Removed Stock
Underbarrel: M1941 Hand Stop
Magazine: 7.62 Gorenko 72 Round Drums
Ammunition: Lengthened
Rear Grip: Fabric Grip
Perk1: Acrobatic
Perk2: Quick
The Owen Gun used to be an absolute meta melter, but now the SMG is no longer a top pick in Warzone Season 5 Reloaded.
This lethal Vanguard SMG may not have the fastest fire rate, but its reliable TTK and effectiveness at both short to medium range make it the perfect pick on Caldera, Rebirth, and Fortune’s Keep.
11. Milano 821
Treyarch/ActivisionThe Milano 821 has become one of the most popular SMGs in Warzone.
Best Milano Warzone loadout
Muzzle: Agency Suppressor
Optic: Microflex LED
Stock: Marathon Stock
Underbarrel: Bruiser Grip
Ammunition: 45 Rnd Drum
Top Warzone players like Aydan showcased just how deadly this pint-sized SMG can be and despite the odd nerf it’s still pretty good.
Not only are there several builds that favor close-quarter engagements, but there are several loadouts that also dish out great damage in mid-range firefights. This makes the Italian SMG more versatile than most weapons in its class.
10. Welgun
Treyarch/ActivisionThe Welgun has been a dominant force in Warzone for a while now.
Best Welgun Warzone loadout
Muzzle: Recoil Booster
Barrel: 320mm SA Shrouded
Optic: Slate Reflector
Stock: Removed Stock
Underbarrel: M1941 Hand Stop
Magazine: 7.62 Gorenko 40 Round Drums
Ammunition: Lengthened
Rear Grip: Polymer Grip
Perk1: Acrobatic
Perk2: Quick
Since arriving in the Warzone Pacific Season 1 Reloaded update, the Welgun has been a popular pick that does devastating damage to foes at close quarters.
It’s well worth experimenting with this fast-firing weapon and allocating it to one of your loadout slots to see if it can still do the business for you.
The loadout above focuses on maximizing the Welgun’s TTK without sacrificing too much mobility, allowing you to outmaneuver your opponents.
9. MP5 (Modern Warfare)
Activision / Infinity WardThe MP5 still ranks among the best SMGs in Warzone.
Best MP5 Warzone loadout
Barrel: Monolithic Integral Suppressor
Laser: 5mW Laser
Stock: FTAC Collapsible
Underbarrel: Merc Foregrip
Ammunition: 45 Round Mags
It should come as no surprise that the MP5 is one of the top picks. In fact, this snappy SMG has remained popular since Warzone’s launch. Its high fire rate and incredible damage make it a great choice for close-quarters firefights. This loadout is one the fastest in the entire game, allowing players to quickly sweep corners and flush out any pesky campers. Consider using this loadout to supplement your favorite Assault Rifle class to ensure you’re dealing as much damage as possible.
8. Cold War MP5
ActivisionThis MP5 build is lethal in short-range gunfights.
Best Cold War MP5 loadout
Muzzle: Agency Suppressor
Laser: Tiger Team Spotlight
Stock: Raider Stock
Underbarrel: Brusier Grip
Ammunition: STANAG 50 Rnd
The Cold War MP5 plays very similarly to its Modern Warfare counterpart. However, it does come packed with a higher rate of fire, meaning you can absolutely melt foes in close-quarter firefights.
This current build is purely focused on making the MP5 as quick and reactive as possible. After all, mobility is imperative in Warzone, particularly when you wish to aggressively rush your foes and eliminate them in late-game rounds.
7. PPSh-41 (Vanguard)
Best PPSh-41 Warzone loadout
Muzzle: Recoil Booster
Barrel: Kovalevskaya 230mm B03P
Optic: Slate Reflector
Stock: Removed Stock
Underbarrel: Carver Foregrip
Magazine: 7.62mm Gorenko 71 Round Mags
Ammo Type: Hollow Point
Rear Grip: Pine Tar Grip
Perk1: Tight Grip
Perk2: Quick
The PPSh-41 SMG is perfect for aggressive players who prefer a run-and-gun playstyle. The main strength of this weapon lies in its insanely fast fire rate, which allows players to down enemies extremely quickly in close-range engagements.
As a result, this loadout aims to focus on further improving this weapon’s mobility and fire rate.
6. CX-9
Treyarch / ActivisionThe CX-9 may not be the best SMG in Warzone Season 5, but with the right attachments, it can be highly effective.
Best CX-9 Warzone loadout
Muzzle: Monolithic Suppressor
Underbarrel: Commando Foregrip
Stock: CX-FR
Perk: Sleight of Hand
Ammunition: 50 Rnd Drum
This punchy SMG offers great mobility, lightning-fast fire rate, fantastic close-quarters damage, and an insanely quick reload. The CX-9 was originally meant to be released in Modern Warfare, but the gun was never officially added to the game until later on.
While the CX-9 may not be as competitive as the MP40 and Armaguerra, this punchy SMG is great fun to use. In fact, several streamers like FaZe Swagg have demonstrated just how deadly it can be when kitted out with the best attachments.
5. Type 100
Activision The Type 100 has one of the fastest fire rates in Warzone.
Best Type 100 Warzone loadout
Muzzle: Recoil Booster
Barrel: Warubachi 134mm Rapid
Optic: Slate Reflector
Stock: Warubachi Grip Folding
Underbarrel: M1941 Hand Stop
Magazine: 30 Russian Short 36 Round Mags
Ammo Type: Hollow Point
Rear Grip: Polymer Grip
Perk1: Acrobatic
Perk2: Quick
The Type 100 is an SMG that boasts a rapid-fire rate resulting in a quick time to kill and is finally getting the attention it deserves in Season 5 Reloaded.
If you wish to increase this weapon’s potential further, the loadout listed above does a perfect job of increasing range, accuracy, and damage.
4. MP40
ActivisionThe MP40 is currently one of the best SMGs in Warzone.
Best MP40 Warzone loadout
Muzzle: Recoil Booster
Barrel: VDD 189mm Short
Optic: Slate Reflector
Stock: Krausnick 33M Folding
Underbarrel:M1941 Hand Stop
Magazine: 7.62 Gorenko 45 Round Mags
Ammo Type: Lengthened
Rear Grip: Polymer Grip
Perk 1: Brace
Perk 2: Quick
Since the Pacific update, the MP40 has risen through the ranks, cementing itself as one of the best SMGs in Warzone’s current meta. The gun offers a great TTK as well as exceptional mobility, which are all characteristics of an effective SMG in CoD Warzone.
The loadout listed above is essential as it increases this weapon’s fire rate, aids in recoil, and further boosts its mobility. If you’ve been looking for a solid all-rounded SMG to use in Warzone, then look no further than the MP40.
3. H4 Blixen
Activision/TreyarchThe best H4 Blixen loadout dominates in Warzone.
Best H4 Blixen Warzone Loadout
Muzzle: Recoil Booster
Barrel:Bergström 17″ F3
Optic: Slate Reflector
Stock: Removed Stock
Underbarrel:SG98 Compact
Magazine: 7.62 Gorenko 54 Round Mags
Rear Grip: Taped Grip
Ammunition: Lengthened
Perk 1: Fleet
Perk 2: Quick
Since arriving in the Season 3 Reloaded patch, the H4 Blixen has been a popular pick in Warzone’s SMG category.
While it also got hit with nerfs in Season 4 Reloaded, it’s overtaken the PPSh-41 in terms of pick rate and stolen the third spot on our list thanks to its overwhelming power in close-quarter gunfights.
With impressive accuracy and reliable damage, the H4 Blixen has quickly established itself as a strong choice on Caldera and Fortune’s Keep, especially when used alongside the Cooper Carbine or the STG44.
The build above maximizes the SMG’s damage but also maintains a huge amount of mobility, allowing you to outmaneuver your opponents.
2. Marco 5
Activision The new Marco-5 SMG dominates close-quarter fights.
Best Marco 5 Warzone loadout
Muzzle: F8 Stabilizer
Barrel: Imerito 342mm 04P
Optic: Slate Reflector
Stock: Perfetto Esatta
Underbarrel: Mark VI Skeletal
Magazine: 8mm Nambu 64 Round Drums
Ammo Type: Lengthened
Rear Grip: Taped grip
Perk 1: Frenzy
Perk 2: Quick
The Marco 5 has secured the second spot despite being hit with a set of nerfs in Warzone Pacific Season 4 Reloaded.
Despite this, it’s still an immensely powerful pick and the build above enables players to greatly enhance mobility – allowing you to effortlessly run rings around your foes.
However, it’s not just the Marco 5’s incredible speed that makes it potent, the gun also delivers huge amounts of damage.
1. Armaguerra 43
Treyarch/ActivisionThe Armaguerra 43 arrived in Season 3.