Clash of Clans troops tier list 2026: which units to prioritize

Troops tier list in Clash of Clans

Picking the right troops is essential to win battles.
Understanding the different troop categories can optimize your strategy.
A tier list helps you prioritize your choices in attack and defense — and where to spend your next book of troops.

Getting started

In the world of Clash of Clans, picking the right troops can be the difference between a glorious victory and a crushing defeat — army composition is half the battle before the first troop is deployed. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, knowing which units are the strongest can really optimize your strategy. That is why we present a troops tier list, so you know which ones to prioritize in your attacks and defenses.

How we ranked

Before diving into the list, here is how we ranked the troops. We looked at several criteria: hit points, damage dealt, range, and above all usefulness across different Town Hall levels and common strategies. A unit that shines at TH10 can be useless at TH16, so the list is meant as a general guide, not an absolute.

The tier categories

S Tier: must-have troops
A Tier: very powerful troops
B Tier: interesting but less effective troops
C Tier: troops to avoid in most cases
D Tier: almost unusable troops

S Tier — the must-haves

In the S category, you will find the troops that are true lifesavers in combat.

Baby Dragon: with its ability to deal area damage while staying at range, the Baby Dragon is a versatile unit that can wipe out crowds of enemies and snipe exposed storages alike. Perfect for picking off isolated buildings, it is a staple of any strategy.
Electro Dragon: this unit does not just hit hard; it can also chain-lightning multiple targets with its breath. Its chain damage places it at the top of the list.
Wizard: often called the giant of troops, the Wizard deals heavy area damage and can efficiently clear groups of enemies and buildings.

A Tier — very powerful troops

A-tier units are solid choices that can make a difference in both attack and defense.

Dragons: these flying creatures bring formidable firepower. Thanks to their mobility, they can threaten any building from above, but they are vulnerable to ground attacks and air defenses alike.
Valkyrie: with her melee area damage, the Valkyrie excels against crowds. Her low cost also makes her popular in army compositions.
Mage: the Mage is very effective at targeting enemy defenses. Its firepower can quickly disable the opponent’s towers.

B Tier — situational troops

These units can be useful depending on the context, but do not rely on them too much.

Barbarian: very versatile, the Barbarian is ideal for quick attacks and can serve as a distraction for more powerful troops.
P.E.K.K.A: although extremely powerful, it is slow. In the end, it is best used in combination with other troops to maximize its effectiveness.
Giants: a solid option for soaking damage. Although not the fastest, their toughness can absorb a lot of hits, letting other units deal damage.

C Tier — troops to avoid

These troops have limited uses in the modern game. They can sometimes help, but it is better to avoid them in most cases.

Horseman: although fast, the Horseman lacks the damage or survivability of other units. Its effectiveness is often limited.
War Hound: weak against defenses, this hound does not deserve a slot in a competitive army.

D Tier — almost unusable troops

Troops in this category have almost no place in a good strategy.

Balloon: despite its very high damage, its slowness and vulnerability make it far too risky in most situations.
Golem: although it can serve as a tank, the Golem is often too slow and expensive to be effective in a competitive strategy.

Final thoughts

There you have it — a Clash of Clans troops tier list to help you optimize your army compositions and your lab upgrade order. Remember that while these rankings can guide your choices, overall strategy in the game is what really makes the difference. Do not hesitate to experiment with different combinations and adapt your approach to your playstyle. Have fun, and good luck on the battlefield.

FAQ

Q1: What are the best troops for early game?

A: Troops like Barbarians and Baby Dragons are good options for beginners.

Q2: Why is the Golem considered ineffective?

A: Because of its slowness and high cost, it can be hard to deploy effectively in a competitive strategy.

Q3: What role does the Wizard play in an army composition?

A: The Wizard excels at area damage, making it a key unit for clearing crowds of enemies.