Shields in Elden Ring are not just about surviving. They define playstyles, influence builds, and open up creative strategies. Whether you prefer the finesse of a parry, the reliability of a round shield, or the immovable dominance of a greatshield, there is an option that fits. Below, you’ll find not only breakdowns of the main shield types but also a table comparing their best-known examples.
Bucklers and Small Shields
Small shields are built for parrying. They don’t block well, but their light weight and wide parry windows make them favourites for PvP and stylish play.
- Buckler: Extended parry frames make this a duelling classic.
- Red Thorn Roundshield: Extremely light, useful for dexterity builds.
- Kite Shield (Small Variant): A middle ground that still allows parrying but adds some stability.
Medium Shields
Medium shields are the game’s most balanced option. They offer reliable protection without crippling stamina use or mobility.
- Brass Shield: A player favourite with excellent guard boost.
- Carian Knight’s Shield: Strong against magic, perfect for sorcerers.
- Beast Crest Heater Shield: Lightweight and steady, great for early game.
Greatshields
Greatshields are for Strength builds who want to outlast everything. They weigh a lot but deliver supreme guard strength.
- Fingerprint Stone Shield: Almost unbreakable when upgraded and paired with Barricade Shield.
- Dragon Slayer Greatshield: Perfect for bosses with elemental attacks.
- Tree Sentinel’s Greatshield: High guard stats and a dramatic look.
The Hidden Strength of Shields
Ashes of War unlock new layers of gameplay:
- Barricade Shield for temporary invincibility.
- Shield Crash for turning defence into aggression.
- No Skill for those who want their shield purely defensive while relying on their weapon’s ash.
Shield Comparison Table
| Shield Type | Example Shields | Weight (Approx) | Guard Boost (Upgraded) | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small Shields | Buckler, Red Thorn Roundshield, Small Kite | 2.5–3.5 | 30–45 | Perfect parries, PvP duels, stylish high-skill play |
| Medium Shields | Brass Shield, Carian Knight’s Shield, Beast Crest Heater | 4.5–7.0 | 55–65 | Reliable exploration, balanced builds, PvE safety |
| Greatshields | Fingerprint Stone Shield, Dragon Slayer, Tree Sentinel’s | 20–29 | 75–100+ | Tanking bosses, PvP attrition fights, Strength builds |
Choosing the Right Shield for You
- Go small if you love the thrill of landing parries.
- Go medium if you want a shield that works in almost any situation.
- Go great if you want to be an unmovable wall.
Every choice is valid. In Elden Ring, shields aren’t just gear, they’re playstyle statements.
