In Elden Ring, runes are more than just experience points—they’re your lifeline to survival, power progression, and versatility. Whether you’re knee-deep in the Lands Between or about to dive into Shadow of the Erdtree, knowing how to use your hard-earned runes efficiently can make a significant difference in your journey. Here are seven smart ways to spend your runes without wasting a single soul.
Leveling up is the most obvious use for runes, but doing it aimlessly can lead to a bloated build that underperforms in both PvE and PvP. Focus on core stats that complement your weapon scaling and playstyle. For example, if you’re running a Dexterity build, don’t neglect Endurance for stamina and equip load. Smart allocation ensures that each time you buy Elden Ring runes, you're feeding directly into a well-optimized build.
One of the best investments you can make is in weapon upgrades. It’s tempting to constantly swap out weapons, but reinforcing your favorite tool of destruction with Smithing Stones or Somber Smithing Stones can significantly boost your damage output. It often provides a better return than leveling alone. Don’t forget to check out merchants and hidden miners’ bell bearings to access better upgrade materials.
Ashes of War can drastically alter your weapon's utility and scaling. Spending runes to experiment with different affinities—like Bleed, Cold, or Heavy—can help you adapt your gear to different enemy types or boss fights. Since these cost minimal resources and can be swapped at Sites of Grace, they’re a low-risk, high-reward rune sink.
Consumables like Boluses, Stanching agents, and Preserving items might seem mundane until you’re knee-deep in Scarlet Rot. Purchasing these items from vendors or crafting them from materials bought with runes can save you in clutch moments. If you prefer to streamline your loadout, you can also buy Elden Ring items externally for convenience—but always make sure they align with your progression stage and character build.
While armor has less direct impact on your stats than in some other RPGs, specific sets can help against elemental or status-heavy enemies. Spending runes to acquire armor that boosts immunity or fire resistance, for example, can make dungeons like Caelid or Mountaintops of the Giants more manageable.
Spirit Summons are an essential part of Elden Ring’s strategy, especially for solo players. Using runes and Ghost/Grave Gloveworts to enhance powerful summons like Lhutel the Headless or Black Knife Tiche can turn the tide of boss fights. Don’t overlook this aspect—it’s one of the most rune-efficient upgrades in the game.
Instead of hoarding runes endlessly, use them to buy Cookbooks and rare crafting components. This gives you the ability to produce fire pots, status arrows, or buffs on demand, which becomes especially helpful in tight battles. It's a forward-thinking way to turn spare currency into battlefield utility.
Ultimately, the key to spending runes wisely lies in balance. Prioritize upgrades and utility that support your build while preparing for what’s ahead. Whether you grind for hours or decide to buy elden ring runes to save time, always invest with purpose. Every rune counts when you’re facing the horrors of the Lands Between.
