Artificer’s Orb: Adding Sockets to Your Arsenal in Path of Exile 2
Hello Path of Exile 2 players! If you're anything like me, you're always looking for ways to make your character tougher, stronger and ready to take on whatever Wraeclast throws at you. One of the coolest ways to do this is to add sockets to your equipment - and that's where the Artificer's Orb comes in. This little gem of a currency item is your ticket to unlocking more power through runes, and trust me, once you get the hang of it, you'll wonder how you ever survived without it. In this guide, we'll break down what the Artificer's Orb does, how to grab one (or a bunch), and why it's a game-changer for your build. Plus, if you're short on time, I'll give you a quick way to stock up via FlareJoy's POE2 currency page - because who doesn't love a shortcut?
What's the deal with the Artificer's Orb?
What's this orb all about? In Path of Exile 2, the Artificer's Orb is a currency item that allows you to add a socket to your combat weapons or armour. Sockets are those little slots you put runes in - think of them as mini power-ups that boost your skills, stats or survivability. Want to swing your axe faster or take more damage? Adding slots with an Artificer's Orb is the way to go.
Here's why it's such a big deal:
More sockets, more options: Each socket you add means another rune you can slot in, giving you tons of flexibility.
Power up your playstyle: Whether you're a tanky warrior or a speedy rogue, sockets allow you to customise your gear to suit your mood.
Imagine you've got an awesome two-handed hammer, and you use an Artificer's Orb to attach a socket to it. Now you can insert a rune that increases your critical strike chance. Suddenly you're smashing enemies left and right like it's no big deal. That's the magic of sockets!
How to use an Artificer's Orb
Using an Artificer's Orb is simple. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Right-click the Artificer's Orb in your inventory - like you're about to unleash some serious potential.
Left-click on the weapon or armour you want to power up.
Boom! Your equipment now has an extra socket, ready for a rune. But wait - there's a catch. Not all equipment can handle the same number of sockets:
Two-handed weapons and body armour: These bad boys can hold up to two sockets.
Other equipment (helmets, gloves, boots, etc.): They're limited to one socket.
Oh, and don't bother trying this on charms, belts, rings or amulets - sockets won't work on them. Save your orbs for the good stuff!
Where can I get Artificer's Orbs?
OK, so you're sold on the idea - but how do you get your hands on them? They're not exactly growing on trees, but there are a few solid ways to get them:
1. Random drops
When you're slashing through enemies or smashing open chests, Artificer's Orbs can drop randomly. It's a bit of a gamble, though - sometimes you'll find one when you least expect it, other times you'll wonder if the RNG gods are messing with you.
2. Salvaging Socketed Gear
This is my favourite method, especially early on. Once you unlock the Salvage Bank (do the Finding the Forge side-quest in the first act), you can break down gear that already has sockets. Here's how it works:
Throw your socketed gear onto the Salvage Bank.
You'll get Artificer's Shards in return.
Collect 10 shards and they'll magically combine into a shiny new Artificer's Orb.
It's a great way to turn old equipment into something useful instead of letting it gather dust in your lair.
3. Trade with other players
Got some extra loot lying around? You can trade with other players for Artificer's Orbs. It's all about knowing what's hot in the POE2 economy - maybe that rare dagger you don't need is someone else's treasure.
And here's a pro tip: if grinding or trading isn't your thing, you can skip the hassle and head over to FlareJoy to buy POE2 currency. They'll have Artificer's Orbs ready for you so you can start upgrading your gear straight away.
Tips for making the most of your Artificer's Orbs
As these orbs aren't very common, you'll want to use them wisely. Here's what I've learned through trial and error:
Focus on your main equipment: Put orbs on your main weapon or armour first - the stuff you rely on in every fight.
Choose quality over quantity: Don't waste an orb on a piece of junk you can replace in an hour. Save it for equipment that's worth keeping.
Think runes ahead: Know what runes you're going to use so you don't have to guess afterwards.
For example, I once used a rune on a mediocre sword because I was excited - big mistake. Two levels later I threw it away for something better. Lesson learned: patience pays off!
Why sockets are a game changer
Sockets aren't just a neat gimmick - they're a big part of what makes your character awesome in Path of Exile 2. Here's why they're so important:
Mix up your skills: More sockets means more runes, which means more tricks up your sleeve.
Build your way: Whether you're all about offense or staying alive, sockets let you customise your gear.
Endgame ready: When you're facing brutal bosses, fully socketed gear can be the difference between victory and a quick trip back to town.
Trust me, once you start adding sockets to your arsenal, you'll feel the difference in every swing and spell.
Pack up: Leveling up with Artificer's Orbs
The Artificer's Orb is the key to unlocking the full potential of your equipment in Path of Exile 2. Adding orbs isn't just about looking cool (although it does help) - it's about giving you the edge you need to take on the toughest challenges. Whether you're salvaging shards, hunting for drops or trading with friends, adding these orbs to your inventory is a smart move.
Ready to upgrade your arsenal? Head over to FlareJoy to purchase POE2 currency and pick up some Artificer's Orbs today. Your equipment - and your enemies - won't know what hit them!