Elden Ring Shield Tier List 2024 - Top 10 Best Shields for Elden Ring DLC

In Elden Ring, choosing the right shield can significantly impact your gameplay experience. Whether you're bracing against the brutal blows of colossal enemies or deflecting the magic of arcane masters, a sturdy shield is a must-have in your arsenal. Here’s a rundown of the top 10 shields in Elden Ring as of 2024, perfect for the game's latest DLC content.

Top 10 Elden Ring Best Shield Ranking for DLC in 2024

• 10. Eclipse Crest Greatshield

The Eclipse Crest Greatshield epitomizes the essence of what a shield should be: simple and effective. It doesn’t dazzle with passive effects or magic resistance bonuses; instead, it offers robust protection with its 76 guard boost right from the start. Its defense stats remain balanced, ensuring that neither physical nor magical onslaughts compromise its effectiveness. This shield is like a reliable, no-frills workhorse, perfect for those who value straightforward, dependable protection in battle.

• 9. Ant's Skull Plate

The Ant's Skull Plate is a formidable shield that combines practical defensive attributes with unique enhancements. It boasts tier three hardness, a notable upgrade from the typical tier two found in most great shields, allowing it to deflect even heavy weapons like great-sized hammers. Additionally, it offers dual effects: a decent buildup of poison resistance and a significant 60-point boost to the player's overall immunity levels. While its guard boost isn’t the highest, it provides a balanced protection that suits various combat scenarios.

• 8. Coil Shield

Unique and enigmatic, the Coil Shield challenges traditional expectations with its design and utility. At first glance, it might seem more decorative than functional, resembling a snake coiled around a piece of wood. Its defensive stats are significantly lower than other shields, making it less effective for typical blocking. However, it excels in offense, acting more like a weapon than a shield. This peculiar blend makes the Coil Shield a wildcard choice, suited for players who enjoy unconventional tactics.

• 7. Gilded Greatshield

The Gilded Greatshield stands out not just for its availability early in the game but also for its excellent defensive capabilities. It offers one of the highest damage negation and guard boosts in its category, making it a staple in many players' arsenals. Easy access to enemies like Godrick Knights in Limgrave ensures that players can acquire and utilize this shield without much hassle. Its effectiveness is further enhanced by compatibility with skills like Barricade, making it a versatile choice for both offense and defense.

• 6. Haligtree Crest Greatshield

Distinguished by its specific theme and design, the Haligtree Crest Greatshield is a legacy-themed shield that offers exceptional protection, particularly against holy damage with a 79% negation rate. It is the heaviest among its themed counterparts, weighing in at 18.2 pounds, yet this weight supports a robust defensive posture, allowing players to adopt a more aggressive, tank-like playstyle. This shield is ideal for players who face holy damage frequently and prefer a stalwart, immovable defense strategy.

• 5. Visage Shield

The Visage Shield combines a grim aesthetic with unique functional features. It allows players to remain in a guarded state while using its special skill, which depletes stamina but can deal substantial fire damage. Ironically, the shield's high fire negation (81%) makes its own fire-based attack less effective against certain enemies, presenting a quirky tactical dilemma. This shield is best suited for those who appreciate a blend of strong defense against fire and the potential for fiery counterattacks.

• 4. Banished Knight's Shield

The Banished Knight's Shield is a community favorite, celebrated for its aesthetic appeal and solid performance. It combines excellent damage absorption with a high guard boost, making it one of the most balanced medium shields available. Its frequent appearance in the game might make it seem common, but its reliable stats and good looks keep it in high regard among players. This shield is perfect for those who seek a balance between functional efficiency and visual appeal in their defensive gear.

• 3. Golden Greatshield

The Golden Greatshield is a symbol of perfection in both form and function, embodying the ideals of the Golden Order. It offers unmatched efficiency in the great shield category, with superb stats that do not compromise its weight or usability. Its visually appealing design complements its mechanical symmetry, making it a top choice for players who value aesthetics as much as performance. This shield is ideal for those who demand the best protection without the burden of excessive weight.

• 2. Fingerprint Shield

The Fingerprint Shield was once capable of achieving a legendary 100 guard boost with the right enhancements, and even after balancing adjustments, it remains a top-tier choice. Its considerable weight (29 pounds) demands a dedicated heavy shield playstyle, limiting flexibility but providing unmatched protection. This shield is best for players who are committed to a defensive strategy and can accommodate its heft without compromising their agility and tactical versatility.

• 1. Brass Shield

The Brass Shield tops this list not only for its high guard boost but also for its impressive multi-element negation capabilities, rivaling even some great shields. Despite being a medium shield, it offers over 50% negation against three different elements, providing a level of protection that is both broad and effective. Its ubiquity among enemies makes it easy to acquire, ensuring that players frequently encounter this top-notch shield. This blend of accessibility, versatility, and strong defensive performance makes the Brass Shield an unrivaled choice for players seeking a reliable medium shield with the protective qualities of a heavier class. It’s perfect for knight builds or those who prefer a balanced approach to combat, combining mobility with formidable defense.

Each shield on this list offers unique advantages, catering to different playstyles and strategies in Elden Ring. Whether you prioritize defense, versatility, or special effects, there's a shield here to enhance your journey through the game's challenging DLC.