Top 5+ PoE 3.25 Best Gauntlet Builds For Fast Leveling & Ranking

With the Runic Strife Gauntlet rolled out in PoE 3.25, it's time to set up your builds for one of Path of Exile's most challenging events. So here we will cover the top meta builds to help you conquer the Gauntlet and claim your rewards. Follow us to discover the best Gauntlet strategies and builds to carry you through the campaign and beyond.

PoE 3.25 Best Gauntlet Builds for Fastest Leveling & Ranking

The Path of Exile's 3.25 Gauntlet, is a challenging event where players tackle the hardest content on hardcore solo self-found (SSF) mode. The Gauntlet spans 10 days, where players level characters and tackle difficult bosses to score points. It features hardcore SSF with intense modifiers that increase monster lethality and resilience, making it important to choose a robust and reliable build. Here, we've compiled a list of top builds based on their ability to navigate the Gauntlet's rigors effectively, to help you not only survive but thrive in this event.

1. Icenova Archmage

The Icenova Archmage build shines with its excellent balance of offense and defense, making it the best choice for those aiming to reach level 90 and beyond. Combining Mind Over Matter with Archmage support grants substantial defense, while the build's inherent good range and damage ensure a smooth leveling experience. This build is particularly effective due to its ability to maintain high survivability and consistent damage output, crucial for navigating the Gauntlet's lethal campaign stages and maps.

Pros: Strong defenses, good damage.

Cons: Can be squishy if not geared well.

Check out how to build up the Icenova Archmage for Gauntlet

2. Detonate Dead Archmage Necromancer

Detonate Dead (DD) Archmage Necromancer remains a robust option despite shifts in popular opinion. This build offers a blend of tankiness with block mechanics, providing a "get out of jail free card" occasionally. Early vulnerability is a concern, but once properly set up, the build provides smooth progression with decent tankiness and damage. It's a solid choice if you're looking for a caster with resilience and reliable damage output.

Pros: Tanky, good progression.

Cons: Needs setup time, not top-tier for endgame.

Check out how to build up the DD Archmage Necromancer for Gauntlet

3. Earthshatter Juggernaut

For melee enthusiasts, the Earthshatter Juggernaut is a go-to. This build excels in defense, with a plethora of endurance charges and fortify effects bolstering its survivability. While it boasts incredible tankiness, its DPS and clear speed may lag, especially under the Gauntlet's punishing mods. However, its defensive setup makes it a viable choice for those who prefer a more deliberate and measured playstyle.

Pros: Extremely tanky, good defenses.

Cons: Lower DPS, melee limitations.

Check out how to build up the Earthshatter Juggernaut for Gauntlet

4. Bleed Sunder Gladiator

The Bleed Sunder Gladiator offers a unique gameplay style focused on high block chances, which can approach near-immortality in maps. However, the lack of high-end DPS and reliance on block for survival can lead to vulnerabilities if luck doesn't hold. This build is recommended for players who enjoy a defensive playstyle but are aware of the potential risks involved if a block fails at a critical moment.

Pros: High block, decent leveling.

Cons: Vulnerable to big hits, lower DPS without specific gear.

Check out how to build up the Bleed Sunder Gladiator for Gauntlet

5. Poison SRS Necromancer

As a minion-based build, the Poison SRS Necromancer allows players to maintain distance from threats, dispatching minions to handle danger. This build is particularly user-friendly for newer players, providing a safer approach to the Gauntlet. While concerns about damage scaling later in the game exist, its early to mid-game performance is strong enough to merit consideration.

Pros: Safe distance, good boss damage.

Cons: Potential damage fall-off later.

Check out how to build up the Poison SRS Necromancer for Gauntlet

6. Power Siphon Trickster

The Power Siphon Trickster offers outstanding damage output, potentially reaching crit cap early in the game. However, this build is less forgiving due to its lower survivability, relying heavily on evasion and ghost shrouds. Recommended for more experienced players who can manage the risk, this build can perform well in maps but may struggle with the Gauntlet's brutal early and mid-game challenges.

Pros: High damage, great bossing potential.

Cons: Low defenses, risky.

Check out how to build up the Power Siphon Tricker for Gauntlet

Choosing the right build for the Gauntlet involves weighing the balance between defense and offense. The Icenova Archmage stands out as the optimal choice due to its robust defensive mechanisms and potent offensive capabilities, making it suitable for both new and veteran players. For those preferring melee combat, the Earthshatter Juggernaut provides unmatched durability, though at the cost of slower progression. Whichever build you choose, prepare thoroughly to navigate the treacherous waters of the Gauntlet.