Wisp, Saryn, Dante, and Mesa dominate the current meta as the strongest Warframes in Update 39.1, offering unmatched versatility, damage output, and team utility for all content types including Steel Path and endgame missions.
With the release of Nokko in October 2025, Warframe now features 62 unique Warframes, each with distinct abilities and playstyles. This comprehensive tier list reflects the current meta state, combining insights from top community sources, official patch notes, and extensive gameplay analysis to help you make informed decisions about which frames to prioritize.
Contents
| Tier | Key Frames | Best For | Viability |
|---|---|---|---|
| S-Tier | Wisp, Saryn, Dante, Mesa, Octavia | All content, Steel Path, team support | Meta-defining |
| A-Tier | Revenant, Protea, Nezha, Volt, Khora | Specific roles, high-end content | Very strong |
| B-Tier | Rhino, Gauss, Nova, Equinox, Frost | Niche applications, beginners | Situational |
| C/D-Tier | Hydroid, Yareli, Nyx, Caliban | Fashion frame, fun playstyles | Limited meta |
The Warframe meta in October 2025 has evolved significantly with recent updates, particularly the introduction of Dante and the pseudo-exalted rework in Techrot Encore. The current meta emphasizes frames that offer:
According to official developer streams and community analysis, the balance philosophy focuses on making every Warframe viable in at least one context, but power disparities still exist in high-end content.
These frames excel at resource and loot generation, making them essential for progression and resource management.
| Warframe | Primary Farming Ability | Best Use Cases | Why They Excel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nekros | Desecrate (loot duplication) | Survival missions, resource farming | Large AoE, no target limit, plug-and-play |
| Khora | Whipclaw + Pilfering | Endless missions, credit farming | Consistent loot generation with good damage |
| Hydroid | Pilfering Swarm | Solo farming, mobile playstyle | Recent rework made him significantly more viable |
Analysis: Nekros remains the king of farming due to his simple, effective Desecrate ability. Khora excels in longer missions where her damage potential shines, while Hydroid's rework has made him a surprisingly effective solo farming option.
These frames represent the pinnacle of Warframe power, capable of handling all content types with exceptional performance.
These frames are strong in most situations and can often perform as well as S-tier frames with proper builds and playstyles.
| Warframe | Primary Role | Key Strengths | Best Content |
|---|---|---|---|
| Khora | Damage/Farming | Whipclaw damage, loot generation | Survival, Defense |
| Protea | Support/Utility | Shield satellites, infinite energy | All team content |
| Gauss | Speed/Damage | Redline movement, damage scaling | Mobile missions |
| Nova | Crowd Control | Slow/Speed, Molecular Prime | Defense, Interception |
| Harrow | Support/Healing | Critical buffs, Covenant | Eidolon hunts, boss fights |
| Baruuk | Tank/Control | Lull, Desert Wind survivability | Steel Path, solo play |
Notable Mentions: Kullervo, Jade, Mirage, Citrine, Xaku, Nidus, Dagath, Rhino, Harrow, Gara, Titania, Styanax, Voruna, Gyre, Mag, Trinity, Koumei, Equinox, Ivara, Hildryn, Ember, Garuda
These frames excel in specific scenarios but may require more investment or have notable limitations.
| Warframe | Niche Strength | Limitations | Best Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhino | Beginner-friendly tank | Outclassed late-game | New player progression |
| Frost | Defense king | Slow movement, outdated | Defense missions |
| Equinox | Day/Night versatility | High skill ceiling | Specific mission types |
| Loki | Stealth specialist | Low damage output | Spy missions, stealth |
| Atlas | One-punch damage | Limited utility | Melee-focused builds |
Additional B-Tier Frames: Caliban, Bonewidow, Grendel, Banshee, Inaros, Limbo, Ash, Excalibur, Chroma, Zephyr, Qorvex, Excalibur Umbra
These frames are generally considered below average for meta content but can still be fun and effective with specific builds.
Our tier list is based on comprehensive analysis from multiple authoritative sources including Overframe.gg community voting, Pocket Tactics meta analysis, Sportskeeda Update 39.1 coverage, and Warframe Market UK meta breakdown.
S-tier frames excel in multiple areas simultaneously - typically offering strong damage output, good survivability, team utility, and scalability to high-level content. They're generally considered "must-have" frames for serious players.
Yes, tier lists are inherently subjective because Warframe's skill-based nature means player skill and build optimization can significantly impact frame performance. However, community consensus and data from sources like Overframe.gg help establish general meta trends.
Absolutely not! Play what you enjoy. Many lower-tier frames can be extremely effective with proper builds and playstyle. Tier lists are guidelines, not rules, and personal enjoyment should always come first.
The Warframe meta typically shifts with major updates, new frame releases, and significant reworks. With Digital Extremes' regular update schedule, expect meaningful meta changes every 2-3 months.
Excalibur, Rhino, and Volt are consistently recommended for beginners due to their straightforward abilities, good survivability, and effectiveness throughout the game.
Prime versions typically offer slightly higher stats and different polarities, but the core gameplay remains the same. The performance difference is usually minimal except in extreme min-max scenarios.
Based on current trends and developer communications, several factors could impact the meta in the coming months:
The Warframe tier list for October 2025 reflects a diverse and evolving meta where player skill and build optimization often matter more than frame selection alone. While S-tier frames like Wisp, Saryn, Dante, and Mesa offer clear advantages in high-end content, the beauty of Warframe lies in its flexibility.
Key Takeaways:
Whether you're a new player deciding on your first frame beyond the starter choices or a veteran optimizing your Steel Path loadouts, this tier list provides the foundation for making informed decisions about your Warframe investment.
Remember: The best Warframe is ultimately the one you enjoy playing the most. Use this tier list as a guide, not a rulebook, and don't hesitate to experiment with frames that catch your interest, regardless of their tier placement.
Stay updated with the latest Warframe meta changes by following official developer streams and community discussions. The Origin System is constantly evolving, and so should your approach to mastering its diverse cast of Warframes.