Dominate your face-to-face and intimate encounters with the best Tarkov SMG!
When you’re playing Escape from Tarkov, the choice of weapon really matters. While rifles and shotguns usually get the attention, SMGs are pretty awesome too, especially if you like to get in close during fights.
The best SMG in Tarkov should hit that sweet spot with a quick firing rate, easy-to-handle recoil, good ammo options, and a price that won’t break the bank.
There are many ways to run an SMG in Tarkov, whether for armor penetration, leg meta, or pure budget efficiency. Let’s get into categories to help you decide which is the best Tarkov SMG for your playstyle.
What is the Best Tarkov SMG?
The best Tarkov SMG depends on your approach to combat. Some players prefer armor-penetrating bullets for higher-tier fights, while others lean toward sheer fire rate to shred unarmored targets.
Among the many choices, one SMG stands out: the .45 Vector. It evolved from an overlooked option to a powerhouse, thanks to its insane TTK and versatility.
Certain options such as the MP7, PP-19 Bizon, and P90 are also excellent selections. But, the best option for you depends on your budget, your current stage in the game, and your preferred playstyle—whether stealthy or more upfront.
Now, let’s explore what makes certain SMGs better than others in specific scenarios.
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1. High Fire Rate
Fire rate is one of the most important factors when choosing the best Tarkov SMG. A high RPM allows you to drop enemies faster, even if your ammunition isn’t the best for armor penetration. This is why the .45 Vector stands out, firing at 1100 RPM. Compared to most 7.62×39 rifles, which fire at half that rate, the Vector’s ability to deliver rapid shots is unmatched.
Other high-RPM SMGs include the MP7 (950–1100 RPM) and the P90 (900 RPM). These weapons, like the Vector, shine in CQC where the goal is to overwhelm the enemy before they can react.
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2. Armor Penetration
If you’re fighting geared opponents, penetration matters more than raw damage. The best Tarkov SMG for armor penetration should use high-penetration rounds. The .45 Vector using AP rounds (45 AP) is excellent, dealing 66 damage with 38 penetration. This allows it to take down Class 4 armor in two to three shots to the chest.
Other strong armor-penetrating SMGs include:
- MP7 (4.6x30mm AP SX) – Great against Class 4 and 5 armor
- P90 (5.7x28mm SB193/AP) – High penetration and decent damage
- UMP45 (45 AP) – Slower RPM but still effective against mid-tier armor
While 7.62 rifles technically have better armor penetration, the sheer volume of bullets an SMG can put out compensates for slightly lower penetration values. If you expect to fight armored opponents, the best Tarkov SMG should have access to armor-piercing rounds.
3. Budget-Friendly SMGs
Not every player can afford expensive ammo or high-end weapons. Sometimes, a budget-friendly SMG is the best option, especially early in a wipe.
The best Tarkov SMG for budget-conscious players includes:
- PP-19 Bizon (9x19mm PST GZH) – Cheap, low recoil, 64-round mags
- MP5 (9x19mm PST GZH) – Affordable with solid attachments
- UMP45 (FMJ Match ammo) – Slow fire rate but decent stopping power
These SMGs may not have the insane TTK of the .45 Vector, but they are reliable and cost-effective. For those running scav runs or early PvP fights, a well-modded PP-19 or UMP can still hold its own.
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4. Suppressed vs. Loud Playstyles
Should you suppress your SMG or go loud? The best Tarkov SMG for a suppressed playstyle depends on whether you want to stay stealthy or draw attention. Suppressors reduce noise and help you avoid third parties, but they can lower ergonomics and add cost.
The .45 Vector can be suppressed easily, but many players prefer running it unsuppressed due to its already low recoil. If you favor stealth, the MP7 and P90 are great suppressed SMG options.
However, if you prefer aggressive mobility, running unsuppressed allows you to optimize recoil and ergo while saving money. The choice ultimately depends on your playstyle.
5. Leg Meta
One alternative strategy in Tarkov is leg meta—focusing on unarmored limbs instead of trying to penetrate armor. The best Tarkov SMG for leg meta is one that can deal high damage per shot and fire quickly.
The .45 Vector with RIP rounds is one of the most effective leg meta weapons, as it can down an enemy in five hits regardless of armor. Other good options include:
- MP7 with Action SX rounds
- UMP45 with Hydroshock rounds
Leg meta is useful for players who struggle to afford armor-piercing ammo. However, it requires precise aim and positioning, as hitting the thorax or head with low-penetration rounds can result in wasted bullets.
6. Ammo Considerations
Ammo is just as important as the gun itself. The best Tarkov SMG will be ineffective without the right rounds.
- 9x19mm PST GZH (PP-19, MP5) – Decent penetration but falls off against Class 4+ armor
- 4.6x30mm AP SX (MP7) – Excellent armor penetration, great for mid-to-late wipe
- 5.7x28mm SB193/AP (P90) – High penetration and accuracy
- .45 AP (Vector, UMP45) – Among the best SMG rounds for armor penetration
- .45 RIP (Vector, UMP45) – High limb damage for leg meta
Selecting the right ammo is crucial in maximizing your SMG’s potential. Even the best Tarkov SMG will struggle if you’re using subpar rounds.
Conclusion
The best Tarkov SMG ultimately depends on your playstyle and budget. The .45 Vector is an absolute powerhouse, combining high fire rate, strong ammo options, and low recoil. However, budget SMGs like the UMP45 and Bizon remain solid choices.
So, if you’re running armor-penetrating rounds or focusing on leg meta, SMGs remain some of the most effective weapons in Tarkov. And if you want every bullet to count, our EFT cheats come with a precision aimbot that will ensure every bullet hits its mark.
