The M4A1-S and M4A4 are the go-to rifles for Counter-Terrorists in CS2. But which one should you choose? This has been a long-standing debate among players. To clear up the confusion, here’s a detailed comparison of the M4A4 vs. M4A1-S to help you pick the best option for your playstyle.
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M4A4 vs M4A1-S Stats Comparison
At first glance, the M4A4 and M4A1-S might seem similar, but their stats reveal subtle differences that significantly impact gameplay. While both rifles are reliable, each caters to different playstyles and situations.
Here’s what we mean: the M4A1-S has a higher base damage of 38 compared to the M4A4’s 33, but the M4A4 compensates with a faster fire rate of 666 RPM versus the M4A1-S at 600 RPM. Both rifles share an armor penetration of 70%, but the M4A1-S suffers more from damage falloff at range (6%) compared to the M4A4’s 3%.
When it comes to headshots, the M4A4 leads with a 4x headshot multiplier, making it more rewarding for accurate players, while the M4A1-S offers 3.475x. These differences, though subtle, shape how these rifles perform in various scenarios. Choosing between them is less about raw stats and more about how those stats align with your playstyle.
Damage Comparison
Both rifles deliver comparable damage under most circumstances, but specific scenarios highlight their differences. Let’s break it down in terms of gameplay impact
At close range, the M4A1-S can eliminate an enemy in 4 chest shots, whereas the M4A4 requires 5 chest shots. However, this advantage is short-lived. Due to the M4A1-S’s higher damage dropoff over distance, it also ends up requiring 5 chest shots at medium to long ranges, leveling the playing field.
Neither weapon can deliver a one-shot headshot to armored opponents, meaning both rifles rely on the headshot-plus-chest-shot combo to secure kills in 2 bullets. This combo works the same for both guns at most ranges. However, as the distance increases, the M4A1-S might require an additional shot to kill, further negating its damage advantage.
Given these similarities in bullet-to-kill metrics, the weapon with the faster fire rate becomes the more reliable choice for time-to-kill. With a fire rate of 666 RPM, the M4A4 outperforms the M4A1-S’s 600 RPM, making it the better option for consistent damage output in most scenarios.
Other Advantages of the M4A4
The M4A4 holds two key advantages that make it a more versatile option in certain scenarios.
First, the larger magazine size of 30 bullets compared to the M4A1-S’s 20 provides a significant edge in sustained firefights or when facing multiple enemies. This extra capacity reduces the need for frequent reloads, which can be critical during intense moments.
Second, the shorter barrel of the M4A4 is less likely to stick out from cover. This can prevent your position from being exposed, a common issue with the M4A1-S, especially in tight angles or when holding corners.
These advantages make the M4A4 a more forgiving weapon for players who rely on aggressive plays or extended engagements.
Accuracy and Recoil Pattern
When it comes to hitting your shots, the M4A1-S stands out as the easier weapon to control. Its simpler recoil pattern allows players to maintain tighter bullet spreads with minimal effort. This makes it a favorite among beginners and pros alike for situations requiring precision.
Additionally, the M4A1-S boasts better running accuracy, making it possible to land effective shots even while on the move. This feature is particularly handy for repositioning or catching enemies off guard.
In contrast, the M4A4’s recoil pattern is more challenging to master, requiring greater skill and practice to control effectively. While the M4A4 offers advantages like a larger magazine and higher fire rate, the M4A1-S’s superior accuracy and ease of use make it a more dependable choice for players focusing on precision.
Price
Choosing the M4A4 over the M4A1-S comes with a $200 premium each time you buy it. While this difference might seem minor, it plays a crucial role in CS2’s economy system.
For instance, $200 can buy a flashbang, a utility that can turn the tide of a gunfight when used correctly. Additionally, since players often need to rebuy weapons after losing rounds, this extra cost can quickly add up.
Over the course of a match, purchasing the M4A4 for just 25% of the rounds (about six rounds) will cost you $1,200 more compared to sticking with the M4A1-S. Multiply that by multiple teammates opting for the M4A4, and your team might face a significant disadvantage in utilities, potentially losing out on critical grenades that could secure crucial rounds.
When every dollar matters, the M4A1-S’s lower cost becomes an essential factor in keeping your team well-equipped.
Other Advantages of the M4A1-S
The suppressor is what truly sets the M4A1-S apart, offering a tactical edge that the M4A4 simply can’t match. For starters, its quiet shots make it incredibly hard for enemies to pinpoint your location based on sound alone.
Another huge advantage is the lack of bullet tracers. This allows you to fire freely through smokes without giving away your position, leaving opponents guessing about where the shots are coming from. Additionally, unlike the M4A4, firing the M4A1-S doesn’t reveal your position on the minimap, giving you a stealth advantage.
These features make the M4A1-S an exceptional weapon for lurking, allowing players to take down opponents while remaining hidden and sowing confusion among the enemy team.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the M4A1-S and M4A4 depends on your playstyle, but the stats from the CS2 pro scene paint a clear picture: around 80% of players prefer the M4A1-S, while only 20% stick with the M4A4.
The M4A1-S dominates due to its suppressor, stealth benefits, and cost efficiency. These features make it a staple for pros who value precision and tactical advantage. However, the M4A4 is still viable for players with aggressive playstyles and those who thrive in close-quarters combat.
If you’re comfortable managing the M4A4’s recoil and love taking the fight to your opponents, it could be the better fit for you. But if you prefer accuracy, stealth, and saving cash for utilities, the M4A1-S is hard to beat. For most situations, we recommend the M4A1-S as the better all-around choice.
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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 excels 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.
