CS2 Charms Guide
Complete guide to Counter-Strike 2 weapon charms (keychains). Learn how charms work, the different types available, rarity tiers, how to acquire and equip them, notable charms, and what determines their value in the market.
What are Charms in CS2?
Charms, also commonly referred to as keychains, are a cosmetic item type in Counter-Strike 2 that allows players to attach small decorative accessories to their weapons. Introduced in the Armory Act update in late 2024, charms represent one of the newest ways to personalize your CS2 loadout.
Unlike stickers that are applied directly onto a weapon's surface, charms hang from a small attachment point on the weapon model. They have physics-based movement, swinging and swaying as you move around the map, adding a dynamic visual element to your weapons.
How Charms Appear In-Game
Charms attach to a designated point on each weapon (typically near the grip or receiver area) and dangle freely. They respond to player movement, weapon switches, and animations, creating a realistic swaying motion that adds personality to your loadout.
Key Charm Characteristics
- Permanent: Unlike graffiti, charms do not have charges and last forever once obtained
- Reusable: Charms can be equipped and unequipped from weapons without being consumed
- One per weapon: Each weapon can only have one charm equipped at a time
- Physics-based: Charms sway and react to movement for realistic animation
- Tradeable: Charms can be bought, sold, and traded on the Steam Community Market
- No gameplay effect: Charms are purely cosmetic and provide no competitive advantage
Charms vs. Keychains: Same Thing
The CS2 community uses "charms" and "keychains" interchangeably. Valve officially calls them "Charms" in the game interface, but the keychain terminology comes from their appearance—they look like small keychains hanging from your weapon. Both terms refer to the same cosmetic item type.
How Charms Work
Understanding charm mechanics helps you make informed decisions about collecting and equipping these cosmetic items.
Charm Mechanics Explained
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Attachment | Charms attach to a fixed point on each weapon model |
| Physics | Real-time physics simulation for natural swaying motion |
| Visibility | Visible to all players in the match (first and third person) |
| Limit | One charm per weapon slot |
| Persistence | Permanent item, never consumed or degraded |
| Compatibility | Can be equipped on most weapons (some restrictions apply) |
Charm Attachment Points
Each weapon in CS2 has a designated attachment point for charms. The location varies by weapon type:
- Pistols: Typically near the trigger guard or grip area
- Rifles: Usually attached near the receiver or stock connection
- SMGs: Often near the grip or magazine housing
- Shotguns: Generally attached to the receiver area
- Machine guns: Various positions depending on the specific weapon
- Knives: Charms can be attached to knife handles
The attachment point is fixed per weapon—you cannot choose where the charm hangs. This ensures consistent visual presentation across all players using the same weapon.
Charm Display Settings
Some players disable charm rendering in their video settings for performance or visual clarity. If you can't see charms in-game, check your CS2 settings. Note that disabling charms only affects what you see—other players with charms enabled will still see your equipped charms.
Types of Charms
CS2 charms come in various themes and designs, offering diverse personalization options for players.
🎮 Gaming Themed
Designs inspired by gaming culture, including controllers, dice, arcade references, and gaming iconography.
🐾 Animal Charms
Cute and stylized animal designs ranging from cats and dogs to exotic creatures and mythical beings.
💀 Skull & Tactical
Military-inspired designs including skulls, tactical gear, grenades, and combat-themed accessories.
🎭 Character Charms
Mini character figures and mascots, including CS-themed characters and original designs.
🌟 Abstract & Artistic
Creative designs with geometric patterns, artistic elements, and unique visual concepts.
🎪 Novelty Items
Fun and whimsical designs including food items, everyday objects, and humorous concepts.
Charm Collections
Charms are organized into collections that are released together in capsules. Each collection has a unifying theme or aesthetic that ties the charms together. Collections announced so far include:
- Armory Collection: The launch collection featuring diverse charm designs
- Skill Group Charms: Charms representing CS2 competitive ranks
- Community Charms: Designs created by community artists
As with other CS2 cosmetics, Valve may release additional charm collections over time, similar to how new sticker capsules and graffiti collections are periodically added.
Rarity Tiers
CS2 charms use a rarity system similar to other cosmetics, though with slightly different tier names than weapon skins. Understanding rarity helps evaluate drop chances from capsules and market pricing. For a complete overview of CS2's rarity systems, see our Skin Rarity Tiers Guide.
Drop Probability from Capsules
When opening charm capsules, the probability of receiving each rarity tier follows patterns similar to other CS2 capsules. While exact rates may vary by capsule:
| Rarity | Color | Approximate Odds | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Distinguished | Blue | ~80% | $0.03 - $1.00 |
| Exceptional | Purple | ~16% | $0.50 - $5.00 |
| Superior | Pink | ~3.5% | $2.00 - $20.00 |
| Master | Red | ~0.5% | $10.00 - $100.00+ |
For detailed probability calculations, our Case Odds Explained guide covers how Valve's probability systems work across all cosmetic categories.
How to Get Charms
There are several ways to acquire charms in CS2, each with different cost-benefit considerations.
Charm Capsules
Purchase charm capsules from the in-game store or Steam Market, then open them for random charms. This is the gambling approach—you might get rare items or common ones. Capsule prices vary depending on the collection.
Direct Market Purchase
Buy specific charms directly from the Steam Community Market. This is the most predictable method—you know exactly what you're getting and the exact price. Generally recommended for specific charms you want.
Armory Pass Rewards
When active, the Armory Pass battle pass system includes charms as rewards at various tiers. This offers a way to earn specific charms through gameplay rather than direct purchase.
Trading
Trade with other players using Steam's trading system. Useful for swapping duplicates or trading items of equivalent value without paying Steam Market fees.
Cost Comparison
Direct Purchase Benefits
- Get exactly what you want
- Know the exact cost upfront
- No randomness or gambling
- Often cheaper for specific items
- Can compare prices easily
Capsule Opening Drawbacks
- Random results (mostly common items)
- Negative expected value typically
- Can spend more than item is worth
- Excitement factor may encourage overspending
For understanding the economics of capsule opening versus direct purchase, the same principles from our Case ROI Calculator apply to charm capsules.
Equipping Charms
Once you have charms in your inventory, equipping them to your weapons is straightforward.
How to Equip a Charm
- Open your CS2 inventory
- Navigate to the Charms section
- Select the charm you want to equip
- Click "Equip" or right-click and select "Equip Charm"
- Choose the weapon loadout slot to attach it to
- Confirm your selection
Managing Equipped Charms
| Action | How To | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Equip charm | Select charm → Equip → Choose weapon | Replaces any existing charm on that weapon |
| Remove charm | Select weapon → Remove Charm | Charm returns to inventory unharmed |
| Swap charm | Equip new charm to same weapon | Old charm automatically returns to inventory |
| Move to different weapon | Remove from current → Equip to new | Or just equip directly to new weapon |
Charms Are Non-Destructive
Unlike stickers which can be scraped or removed permanently, charms can be equipped and unequipped unlimited times without any degradation. Your charm remains in perfect condition regardless of how many times you move it between weapons.
Charm Loadout Tips
- Match your skin: Choose charms that complement your weapon skin's color scheme
- Consider visibility: Some weapons display charms more prominently than others
- Consistency: Some players prefer matching charms across all weapons for a unified look
- Variety: Others prefer different charms for different weapon types
- Competitive focus: If charms distract you, consider only equipping them on rarely-used weapons
Armory Pass & Charms
The Armory Pass system, introduced alongside charms, provides an alternative way to obtain these cosmetic items through gameplay progression.
What is the Armory Pass?
The Armory Pass is CS2's battle pass system that rewards players for completing in-game challenges and earning XP. Charms appear as rewards at various tiers of the pass, alongside other cosmetics like skins and cases. According to PC Gamer's coverage, the Armory system represents Valve's approach to seasonal content in CS2.
Armory Pass Charm Rewards
- Free tier rewards: Some charms available to all players through gameplay
- Premium tier rewards: Additional charms for Armory Pass purchasers
- Exclusive designs: Certain charms only available through the pass
- XP-based progression: Earn rewards by playing and completing challenges
Pass vs. Market Economics
When evaluating whether to buy an Armory Pass for charms:
- Calculate the market value of all pass rewards
- Compare to the pass price
- Consider whether you'll play enough to unlock all tiers
- Factor in exclusive items you can't buy elsewhere
This analysis is similar to evaluating any CS2 purchase—understand the expected value before spending. Our ROI Calculator methodology can help frame this analysis.
Value Factors
Understanding what makes charms valuable helps both collectors and traders make informed decisions.
Primary Value Drivers
| Factor | Impact | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rarity Tier | High | Master > Superior > Exceptional > Distinguished |
| Visual Appeal | High | Unique designs, popular themes, animation quality |
| Limited Availability | Very High | Armory Pass exclusives, discontinued collections |
| Collection Demand | Medium | Popular collections command higher prices |
| Theme/Meme Value | Variable | Community favorites, streamer-popularized charms |
| Market Supply | Medium | Lower supply from discontinued sources increases value |
Market Dynamics
Charm market prices are influenced by:
- Newness factor: Recently released charms often have higher initial prices that stabilize over time
- Armory Pass timing: Prices may drop during active passes, rise after passes end
- Streamer influence: Popular streamers using specific charms can spike demand
- Collection completion: Collectors may pay premiums for the last items they need
- Meta coordination: Charms that match popular weapon skins may see increased demand
For broader market understanding, our Skin Trading Guide covers Steam Market mechanics that apply to charms as well.
Notable Charms
Some charms have become particularly popular or valuable in the CS2 community since their introduction.
Hot Sauce
SuperiorA tiny hot sauce bottle charm that quickly became a community favorite for its novelty and bright colors. Popular among players who want a casual, fun aesthetic.
Die-Cast AK
MasterA miniature die-cast AK-47 replica charm. Highly sought after for its meta humor—an AK charm on your AK. One of the most valuable Master tier charms.
Baby Karat CT/T
ExceptionalAdorable mini character charms featuring CT and T baby mascots. Popular for their cute design and faction-appropriate loadout matching.
Skill Group Charms
DistinguishedCharms representing CS2 competitive ranks. Players often equip their current rank or aspirational rank. Global Elite charms are particularly popular.
Community Favorites
Beyond rare items, some charms have become popular for everyday use:
- Lucky Cat: Maneki-neko style charm for good luck in matches
- Grenade charms: Tactical themed, matches the game's military aesthetic
- Food items: Casual and humorous, appeals to non-serious players
- Skull variants: Edgy aesthetic popular with certain player demographics
- Diamond/gem charms: Flashy, works well with expensive weapon skins
Charms vs. Stickers
Both charms and stickers allow weapon customization, but they work differently and serve different purposes.
Charms
- Hang from weapon externally
- Physics-based movement
- One per weapon
- Fully reusable (never consumed)
- Same across all weapons
- Introduced in 2024
Stickers
- Applied directly to weapon surface
- Static decoration
- Up to 4-5 per weapon (varies)
- Permanent once applied (can scrape)
- Different positions per weapon
- Since CS:GO launch
When to Use Each
| Scenario | Better Choice | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Want to try different looks | Charms | Can swap freely without loss |
| Permanent weapon customization | Stickers | Integrated into the skin's identity |
| Budget-conscious | Charms | One charm works on all weapons |
| Collector/investor | Either | Rare stickers and charms both appreciate |
| Tournament support | Stickers | Team/player stickers more established |
For more on stickers, see our Sticker Capsules Guide which covers sticker types, application, and investment considerations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are charms in CS2?
Charms (also called keychains) are cosmetic accessories that hang from your weapons in CS2. They were introduced in the Armory Act update in late 2024. Charms have physics-based animation, swinging as you move, and are visible to all players in the match. They're purely cosmetic with no gameplay effect.
How do you equip charms in CS2?
To equip a charm, open your CS2 inventory, select the charm you want to use, and click "Equip." Choose which weapon loadout slot to attach it to. Each weapon can have one charm at a time. Charms are not consumed when equipped and can be moved between weapons freely.
Can I use the same charm on multiple weapons?
A single charm can only be equipped to one weapon at a time. However, you can move it between weapons whenever you want without any penalty or degradation. If you want the same charm on multiple weapons simultaneously, you'll need multiple copies of that charm.
How do you get charms in CS2?
You can get charms by opening Charm Capsules (from the store or Steam Market), buying individual charms directly from the Steam Community Market, earning them through the Armory Pass battle pass, or trading with other players.
Are charms permanent or do they have charges like graffiti?
Charms are permanent items with no charge system. Unlike graffiti which has 50 uses before being consumed, charms last forever and can be equipped and unequipped unlimited times without any degradation or consumption.
What are the charm rarity tiers?
CS2 charms use four rarity tiers: Distinguished (blue, most common), Exceptional (purple), Superior (pink), and Master (red, rarest). Higher rarity charms are harder to obtain from capsules and typically more valuable on the market.
Can I trade charms?
Yes, charms are fully tradeable on the Steam Community Market and through Steam's trading system. Unlike applied stickers which become bound to a weapon, charms remain individual items that can always be traded.
Do charms affect gameplay?
No, charms are purely cosmetic. They provide no competitive advantage, don't affect weapon stats, and don't change hitboxes. Some players disable charm rendering in settings if they find the movement distracting.
Can every weapon have a charm?
Most weapons support charms, including pistols, rifles, SMGs, shotguns, machine guns, and knives. The attachment point location varies by weapon. Some special items may have restrictions.
Related CS2 Guides & Tools
Explore more CS2 educational content:
- Sticker Capsules Guide - Another weapon customization system
- Graffiti Guide - Spray customization with charge mechanics
- Skin Rarity Tiers - How rarity systems work across CS2
- Skin Trading Guide - Market mechanics for all tradeable items
- Case Odds Explained - Understanding Valve's probability systems
- Case ROI Calculator - Calculate expected value for case/capsule openings
- All CS2 Tools - Browse our complete toolkit
Final Perspective:
"Charms represent CS2's newest cosmetic frontier, offering a unique way to personalize your loadout that's fundamentally different from skins and stickers. Their reusability makes them accessible—one good charm can rotate through your entire arsenal. For collectors, the Master tier charms and Armory Pass exclusives offer investment potential as supply becomes limited after passes expire. For casual players, affordable Distinguished tier charms let you add personality without significant expense. The physics-based animation is a nice touch that makes charms feel alive on your weapons. Whether you're a completionist collector or just want a fun dangling trinket, the charm system adds another layer to CS2's already deep customization options."
Important Disclaimer
This guide is for educational purposes only. Opening charm capsules involves financial risk with typically negative expected value. Only spend money you can afford to lose. For help with gambling-related issues, visit BeGambleAware.org.
Last updated: December 2025