Boosters in Helldivers 2 are one of the most underrated mechanics, yet they can drastically change the pace of a mission if used correctly. Whether you’re dropping into chaotic PvP clashes or tackling endless waves of enemies in PvE, understanding when and how to equip boosters will help you get the most out of your loadout.

What Are Boosters in Helldivers 2?

Boosters are special support upgrades that provide passive effects for your squad. They can enhance survivability, improve damage output, or even reduce cooldowns for critical stratagems. Unlike stratagems, which you actively deploy, boosters are always working in the background once selected.

Using Boosters in PvE

In cooperative missions against Terminids or Automatons, boosters often shine the most. A well-chosen booster can turn a difficult fight into a manageable encounter. For example, health regeneration or armor-enhancing boosters give your squad more breathing room during prolonged firefights. Damage-oriented boosters can also help you clear hordes of smaller enemies faster, letting your team focus fire on high-priority targets.

Another strong option is ammo efficiency boosters, which are invaluable during longer missions where supply drops may be limited. If you’re coordinating with a squad, it’s smart to have each member pick a different booster so the team benefits from multiple passive effects.

Using Boosters in PvP

PvP introduces different priorities. Here, boosters can be the difference between winning or losing an engagement. Movement speed boosters help with dodging enemy fire and repositioning, while cooldown reduction makes sure your stratagems come online faster than your opponents’. In intense duels, survivability boosters can give you just enough time to counterattack instead of being forced to retreat.

Timing and synergy matter a lot in PvP. If your squad stacks similar boosters, you might end up missing out on versatility. Instead, aim for a mix—mobility for flanking, damage for finishing fights, and durability to withstand ambushes.

Boosters and Progression

Unlocking boosters can take time, and many players look for faster ways to expand their collection. While grinding missions is the traditional path, some players prefer to buy Helldivers 2 items to round out their options more quickly. Similarly, those aiming to speed up progression might choose to buy Helldivers 2 medals online, which can then be used to unlock new gear, stratagems, and of course, boosters.

Boosters may not be as flashy as calling down an orbital strike, but they’re the backbone of smart loadout planning. In PvE, they keep your squad sustained through long missions, while in PvP, they offer the edge needed to outplay human opponents. Think of them as quiet force multipliers—always active, always helping, and often the reason a mission succeeds.

If you’re still experimenting with your setup, don’t be afraid to try different combinations until you find the balance that fits your playstyle. The right booster at the right time can be just as decisive as any weapon or stratagem.