Are you wondering what to choose between BEAR or USEC in Tarkov? Find out which one is for you through our faction guide.
One thing you’ll need to do, especially when starting your journey in Escape from Tarkov is choosing between two factions.
Without any background or knowledge about these two, you can be stuck in indecision. You might imagine scenarios where faction differences lock you out of playing with friends or limit your progression. None of that happens in Tarkov. However, your choice subtly impacts your experience.
From starting loadouts to AI interactions, and even cosmetic options, there are reasons why someone might prefer one faction over the other. Let’s dive deeper into which faction in Tarkov is for you.
What Is BEAR and USEC in Tarkov?
Also Read: What to Do First in Escape From Tarkov?
BEAR and USEC are the two factions you can choose from when creating your character in Tarkov. BEAR represents Russian-trained operatives, while USEC is a Western private military group.
Every faction comes with its own starting gear, voice lines, and some little gameplay tweaks. Even though picking one might feel important, it doesn’t really change the overall experience that much.
If you’ve been frozen at the selection screen, wondering if BEAR or USEC fits your vibe, this guide will break it all down. Let’s get into what matters (and what doesn’t) when choosing BEAR or USEC in Tarkov.
Starting Gear: BEAR vs. USEC
Your starting kit in Tarkov varies slightly depending on whether you choose BEAR or USEC.
While these differences don’t matter in the long run, gear is disposable, and you’ll quickly loot or upgrade. Early wipe gameplay can feel influenced by what you’re handed.
USEC Starting Gear
• USECs begin with Western weapons like the M4 and MP5. The M4 stands out for its high fire rate (800 RPM) and versatile 5.56×45 rounds. Early wipe, the M855 ammo provides decent armor penetration and damage, making it reliable against lower-tier armor.
• You also get plenty of attachments, like Stanag magazines, to support your playstyle.
BEAR Starting Gear
• BEARs lean into Russian firearms like the AK-74M and PP-19. These guns fire 5.45×39 rounds, and BEARs start with 90 rounds of BP ammo, which has excellent penetration early onon.
• While BEAR guns have slightly lower fire rates compared to USEC’s options, the ammo quality compensates.
In summary, USEC players get better weapons initially, while BEAR players get better ammo. Both setups are strong for the first week or two.
AI Interactions
One of the most impactful differences between BEAR and USEC is how AI factions react, particularly the Rogues on the Lighthouse map.
As a USEC
Rogues are mostly neutral unless you enter their restricted zones or provoke them. This makes it easier to explore Lighthouse for quests, loot, or ambushes early in the wipe. If you do anger the Rogues, their hostility resets after three raids, giving you another shot at avoiding their wrath.
As a BEAR
Rogues are hostile on sight. Playing as a BEAR means you’ll need to engage carefully or avoid the Rogues altogether. While experienced players often fight Rogues regardless of faction, this automatic hostility can complicate certain tasks.
Also Read: How to Use Grenades in Tarkov: EFT Grenade Guide
Quests
For most quests in Tarkov, your faction won’t make a difference. However, two faction-specific tasks: Our Own Land (BEAR) and Counteraction (USEC), stand out.
• These quests require killing 20 PMCs from the opposing faction and collecting their dog tags, specifically on Lighthouse.
• USEC players have an easier time completing this since the majority of players tend to choose USEC, providing more BEAR targets to hunt.
• Conversely, BEAR players might struggle to find enough USECs, especially on Western servers, where USEC players dominate (roughly 70%).
Since most players tend to choose USEC, finding BEAR targets can be challenging. If you’re planning to focus heavily on Lighthouse or PvP quests, USEC might offer a smoother experience.
Clothing
• BEAR and USEC have unique clothing options, unlocked through Ragman as you level up.
• BEAR outfits lean into a rugged, military style, while USEC gear has a sleek, private-contractor vibe.
Voice Lines
• USEC voice lines are in English, which can make communication with teammates (or enemies) easier.
• BEAR players primarily speak Russian, though there are broken English options. The Russian voice lines can even be used to trick inexperienced players into thinking you’re a Scav.
PMC Karma
• PMC Karma, a mechanic hinted for future updates, could sway faction balance.
• Currently, choosing BEAR may have a slight edge on Western servers. With more USEC players around, BEARs encounter “opposing” PMCs more often, which might affect karma-based gameplay if introduced.
Though this is speculative, it’s worth keeping in mind for players thinking long-term about Tarkov’s evolving meta.
BEAR or USEC? Making the Choice
Also Read: How to Increase FPS in Escape From Tarkov
So, BEAR or USEC in Tarkov? If you’re looking for early-game convenience, smoother Lighthouse runs, and an easier time navigating rogue-heavy areas, USEC is the way to go. Their access to better starting weapons like the M4 and slightly favorable AI interactions on Lighthouse can give you an edge early on.
However, if you prefer a more hardcore, ammo-focused playstyle with powerful rounds like BP, and don’t mind a challenge, BEAR might suit you better. Their rugged aesthetic, unique Russian voice lines, and slightly superior early-game ammunition cater to those who enjoy a tougher yet rewarding experience.
At the end of the day, both factions offer similar gameplay once you progress, so your choice really comes down to personal preference and how you want to tackle Tarkov’s intense world.
Conclusion
Choosing between BEAR or USEC in Tarkov might be confusing, but the decision isn’t as game-changing as it seems. Consider your preferred aesthetics, questing goals, and AI interactions.
No matter your choice, Tarkov’s intense and immersive experience awaits. So, pick your best faction and you’ll be upgrading gear and dominating raids in no time! Know what else will help you in dominating raids? Check out our Tarkov hack with aimbot, ESP, and wallhack. You won’t regret it.
