The M4A4 and M4A1-S are the primary rifle choices for CT players in CS2. Both guns have their strengths, but players still debate which rifle is the best overall. Unlike in CS:GO, CS2 lets you keep both rifles in your loadout, buying whichever you prefer each round. Still, many players prefer having a default choice that suits their playstyle.
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Understanding the differences of M4A4 & M4A1-S
With both rifles now available each round, your decision comes down to personal preference, handling, and performance. Understanding the differences between the M4A4 and M4A1-S helps you decide which rifle fits your playstyle best.
- Stat differences between M4A4 and M4A1-S
- Damage output and time-to-kill comparisons
- Magazine size and reload benefits
- Recoil and accuracy differences
- Suppressor and stealth benefits
- Price comparison
- Recommended default rifle choice
Let’s break down these differences.
Expert Take
“The favored gun in the pro scene is the M4A1-S, but if you expect to need more bullets on rush rounds, sometimes it’s wiser to pick the M4A4.” – Pawel ‘Biegan’ Bieganowski
M4A4 vs M4A1-S Stats Comparison
| Feature | M4A1-S | M4A4 |
|---|---|---|
| Base Damage | 38 | 33 |
| Fire Rate (RPM) | 600 | 666 |
| Magazine Size | 20 bullets | 30 bullets |
| Reload & Handling | Smaller mag, easier recoil, suppressor | Larger mag, harder recoil, shorter barrel for aggressive angles |
| Recoil Control | Easier, more controllable | More difficult, requires skill |
| Suppressor | Yes (quieter shots, no tracers, no minimap) | No |
| Damage Drop-off | Higher at long range (6%) | Lower at long range (3%) |
| Headshot Multiplier | 3.475x | 4x |
| Price | $2,900 | $3,100 |
| Pro Preference | Preferred by ~80% for stealth and control | Preferred by aggressive players |
| Recommended Style | Stealthy, consistent, defensive | Aggressive, fast-paced, spray control |
The two rifles look similar but differ notably in their stats. The M4A1-S deals higher damage per bullet (38 base damage) compared to the M4A4 (33 base damage). However, the M4A4 compensates with a higher fire rate of 666 RPM, compared to the 600 RPM of the M4A1-S.
Both rifles have equal armor penetration (70%), but the M4A1-S experiences slightly greater damage drop-off at longer distances (6%) than the M4A4 (3%). Also, the M4A4 has a higher headshot multiplier (4x) compared to the M4A1-S (3.475x), rewarding precise aim more.
These subtle differences influence their effectiveness during real matches.
Damage Output and Time-to-Kill
At short ranges, the M4A1-S needs fewer chest shots (4) compared to the M4A4 (5) to secure a kill. However, at medium and longer distances, damage drop-off evens things out, making both rifles require roughly the same shots to kill (5 chest shots).
Neither gun can kill armored opponents with a single headshot. Both rely on headshot-plus-body-shot combos. Due to its higher fire rate, the M4A4 usually achieves a quicker time-to-kill in many common scenarios, especially at medium range.
Magazine Size and Reload Benefits
The M4A4 carries 30 bullets per magazine compared to the M4A1-S’s 20. This larger magazine helps significantly during extended engagements or when facing multiple opponents without frequent reloads.
Additionally, the shorter barrel of the M4A4 makes it less likely to give away your position when holding tight angles, something players holding aggressive positions appreciate.
Recoil and Accuracy Differences
The M4A1-S has a more controllable recoil pattern, making it easier to maintain accurate shots, especially during sprays. This simplicity makes it popular for players who prefer reliable, precise shots.
In contrast, the M4A4 has a more demanding recoil pattern, requiring additional practice to control consistently. Skilled players comfortable with spray patterns can benefit from its higher fire rate and magazine size.
Suppressor and Stealth Benefits
The M4A1-S’s main advantage is its suppressor. The rifle has no bullet tracers, quieter gunshots, and firing doesn’t show your position on the enemy’s minimap. This stealth advantage allows players to fire through smokes or from hidden angles without easily revealing their position.
These stealth elements make the M4A1-S particularly strong for defensive, lurk, or anchor roles, as opponents struggle to identify where shots are coming from.
Price comparison
The M4A1-S costs $2,900. The M4A4 is $3,100. That $200 difference adds up fast across rounds.
With $200 you can buy a flashbang. Over a full match, switching to the M4A4 for just six rounds means spending $1,200 more. If multiple teammates do the same, your team might miss out on grenades, defuse kits, or armor during tight buys.
If you’re playing full buy every round, the cost may not matter. But in eco-heavy games or tight matches, it can swing utility control in your opponent’s favor.
Recommended Default Rifle Choice
Currently, around 80% of CS2 pro players favor the M4A1-S. Pros value its stealth, precise control, and reliability across most scenarios.
Despite that, the M4A4 maintains popularity with a minority of pro players who prefer its aggressive capability, especially in positions requiring rapid engagements or holding important points where sustained fire is beneficial.
So if you prefer stealth, easier recoil management, and the consistency favored by most pro players, the M4A1-S is your best default choice.
If you’re an aggressive player who thrives in fast-paced situations and can handle more challenging recoil, the M4A4 remains a strong alternative.
Most players, including the majority of pros, choose M4A1-S as their default rifle.
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Conclusion
The decision between the M4A4 and M4A1-S ultimately depends on your playstyle and priorities in the game. The M4A4 is great in aggressive situations with its higher fire rate and larger magazine, making it great for players who prefer close-range combat. On the other hand, the M4A1-S stands out for its stealth advantages, cost efficiency, and ease of control, making it the preferred choice for the majority of CS2 players, including professionals.
For most scenarios, the M4A1-S is the better all-around option, but the M4A4 is still a solid pick if you can control its recoil and enjoy an aggressive playstyle. Ultimately, both weapons can shine in the right hands.
