CS2 Graffiti Guide
Complete guide to Counter-Strike 2 graffiti sprays. Learn how graffiti works, the charge system, different types of graffiti capsules, rarity tiers, how to acquire and use sprays, notable graffiti items, and what determines their value in the market.
What is Graffiti in CS2?
Graffiti, commonly called sprays, are cosmetic items in Counter-Strike 2 that allow players to spray images onto surfaces during matches. When you use a graffiti spray, a decal appears on walls, floors, boxes, or other in-game surfaces, visible to all players in the match.
The graffiti system was introduced in CS:GO and continues in CS2, replacing the old spray system from earlier Counter-Strike games where sprays were permanent uploads. The modern system uses curated designs with a consumable charge mechanic.
Key Graffiti Characteristics
- Consumable: Most graffiti has 50 charges that deplete with each use
- Temporary: Sprays appear for approximately 45 seconds before fading
- One per round: You can only spray once per round in competitive matches
- Tradeable: Sealed graffiti can be traded on the Steam Community Market
- Single-color: Unlike old CS sprays, modern graffiti is monochromatic
- No gameplay effect: Graffiti is purely cosmetic and provides no advantages
Sealed vs. Unsealed Graffiti
Graffiti exists in two states in your inventory. Sealed Graffiti is tradeable and has not been applied yet—it retains full value. Unsealed Graffiti (applied to your loadout) cannot be traded and actively loses charges when used. Only sealed graffiti appears on the Steam Market.
The Charge System
Understanding the charge system is essential for anyone collecting or using CS2 graffiti. Unlike weapon skins that last forever, graffiti is a consumable item with limited uses.
Standard Graffiti Charges
Each graffiti spray from capsules comes with 50 charges. Every time you spray in a match, one charge is consumed. When charges reach zero, the graffiti is permanently deleted from your inventory.
50/50 charges remaining (sealed)
Charge Mechanics Explained
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard Charges | 50 uses per graffiti item |
| Spray Duration | ~45 seconds visible on surfaces |
| Per-Round Limit | 1 spray per round in competitive/premier |
| Casual Limit | Spray cooldown but more flexible |
| Charge Consumption | 1 charge per successful spray |
| Charge Display | Visible in inventory as "X charges remaining" |
Economic Implications
The charge system creates interesting economics for graffiti. Unlike permanent items, graffiti has a "cost per use" that players should consider. For example:
- A $2.50 graffiti with 50 charges costs $0.05 per spray
- A $0.50 graffiti with 50 charges costs $0.01 per spray
- Rare graffiti at $25+ might cost $0.50+ per spray
This makes expensive graffiti a genuine luxury item—you're paying for the prestige of using a rare spray knowing it will eventually disappear. For budget-conscious players, our ROI Calculator mindset applies: consider the value you're getting per use.
Charges Cannot Be Refilled
Once you apply (unseal) graffiti, there is no way to add more charges. The only option when charges run out is to acquire a new sealed graffiti. This is why collectors often keep valuable graffiti sealed for trading rather than using them.
Rarity Tiers
CS2 graffiti uses the same color-coded rarity system as other cosmetics, though with slightly different tier names. Understanding rarity helps you evaluate drop chances from capsules and market pricing. For a complete overview of how rarity works across all CS2 items, see our Skin Rarity Tiers Guide.
Drop Probability from Capsules
When opening graffiti capsules, the probability of receiving each rarity tier follows patterns similar to weapon cases, though exact rates may vary by capsule. Generally:
| Rarity | Color | Approximate Odds | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Grade | White/Gray | ~80% | $0.03 - $0.50 |
| High Grade | Light Blue | ~16% | $0.25 - $2.00 |
| Remarkable | Purple | ~3.5% | $1.00 - $10.00 |
| Exotic | Pink | ~0.5% | $5.00 - $50.00+ |
For detailed probability math, our Case Odds Explained guide covers how Valve's probability systems work.
How to Get Graffiti
There are several ways to acquire graffiti in CS2, each with different cost-benefit considerations.
Graffiti Capsules
Purchase graffiti capsules from the in-game store or Steam Market, then open them for random graffiti. This is the gambling approach—you might get rare items or common ones. Capsule prices vary from $0.99 to several dollars depending on the collection.
Direct Market Purchase
Buy specific sealed graffiti 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 items you want.
Weekly Drops
Graffiti occasionally drops as part of CS2's weekly drop system, though weapon skins and cases are more common. Drop graffiti is typically lower rarity (Base Grade or High Grade).
Special Events
Major tournaments and special events sometimes offer exclusive graffiti. Tournament graffiti (featuring team logos, player autographs, or Major branding) can only be obtained during specific events.
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 graffiti capsules.
Graffiti Capsule Types
CS2 offers various graffiti capsules, each containing different collections of spray designs.
🎨 Community Graffiti Capsules
- Designs created by community artists
- Multiple series (1, 2, 3, etc.)
- Wide variety of themes and styles
- Artists receive revenue share
- Generally affordable pricing
🏆 Tournament Graffiti Capsules
- Released during Major Championships
- Feature team logos and player autographs
- Time-limited availability
- Collector value for esports fans
- Support teams and players financially
⭐ Perfect World Graffiti
- Exclusive to Chinese CS2 client
- Unique designs not available globally
- Can be traded on global market
- Often command premium prices
- Regional exclusivity adds value
🎁 Special/Limited Graffiti
- Event-exclusive releases
- Anniversary or celebration sprays
- Cannot be obtained after event ends
- High collector demand
- Prices often increase over time
Using Graffiti In-Game
Once you have graffiti, using it effectively adds to the fun. Here's everything you need to know about spraying in matches.
How to Apply Graffiti
Before you can spray, you must apply (unseal) graffiti to one of your graffiti slots:
- Open your CS2 inventory
- Navigate to the Graffiti section
- Select sealed graffiti you want to use
- Click "Apply" to add it to your spray wheel
- Confirm—this makes it untradeable
How to Spray In-Game
The default spray key is T (though this can be rebound in settings). Point your crosshair at a valid surface and press the spray key. The graffiti will appear at your aim point.
Spray Tips and Etiquette
- Strategic placement: Spray near objectives, at bombsites, or common spots where players will see it
- Timing: Don't spray during active firefights—it's purely for fun between action
- Victory sprays: Many players spray after winning rounds as a signature move
- Deception: Some creative players spray misleading graffiti (like fake players) though this rarely fools experienced opponents
- Conservation: If you're using expensive graffiti, consider only spraying on special occasions
Graffiti Wheel
You can equip multiple graffiti to your spray wheel, allowing quick selection mid-match. Access the wheel by holding the spray key to choose between your applied graffiti options.
Tournament & Special Graffiti
Some of the most collectible graffiti comes from CS2 Major Championships and special events. These limited-time items hold particular value for esports fans and collectors.
🏆 Major Tournament Graffiti
During Major Championships, Valve releases special graffiti capsules featuring:
- Team Logos: Spray your favorite team's logo in-game
- Player Autographs: Signatures from professional players
- Event Branding: Major-specific logos and artwork
- Revenue Sharing: Purchases support teams and players
For more on Major tournaments and their collectibles, see our Souvenir Packages Guide which covers the broader Major ecosystem.
Why Tournament Graffiti Has Value
Tournament graffiti often appreciates in value over time because:
- Limited availability: Only purchasable during the tournament period
- Historical significance: Commemorates specific events in CS esports history
- Fan connection: Allows fans to represent teams and players they support
- Roster changes: Player autographs from retired players or changed rosters become rarer
- Trophy graffiti: Champion team graffiti from historic victories holds special value
For tracking Major Championship history and notable events, resources like Liquipedia's Major Championship archive provide comprehensive tournament histories.
Value Factors
Understanding what makes graffiti valuable helps both collectors and traders make informed decisions.
Primary Value Drivers
| Factor | Impact | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rarity Tier | High | Exotic > Remarkable > High Grade > Base |
| Limited Availability | Very High | Discontinued capsules, event exclusives |
| Visual Appeal | High | Unique designs, popular themes |
| Tournament Association | Medium-High | Major Championship graffiti, famous players |
| Color Vibrancy | Medium | How visible and striking the spray appears |
| Capsule Status | Medium | Discontinued capsule graffiti gains value |
Market Dynamics
Graffiti market prices are influenced by:
- Supply exhaustion: As graffiti gets used up (charges depleted), sealed supply decreases
- New releases: New capsules can shift attention and demand
- Esports events: Tournament graffiti demand spikes during Majors
- Meme value: Graffiti with community meme potential may gain value
- Streamer influence: Popular streamers using specific graffiti can drive demand
For broader market understanding, our Skin Trading Guide covers Steam Market mechanics that apply to graffiti as well.
Notable Graffiti Items
Some graffiti items have become particularly popular or valuable in the CS2 community.
Crown (Foil)
ExoticOne of the most prestigious graffiti items, featuring the iconic Crown design. High demand due to association with the legendary Crown sticker.
Nelu the Bear
RemarkablePopular community graffiti featuring an adorable bear design. Beloved for its wholesome appeal in a competitive game.
Still Happy
High GradeA smiling face design that became popular for post-round sprays. Affordable yet recognizable.
s1mple (Autograph)
ExoticTournament autograph graffiti from legendary player s1mple. High collector value due to his status as one of CS's greatest players.
Community Favorites
Beyond rare items, some graffiti has become popular for everyday use:
- GG: Classic "good game" spray for sportsmanship
- EZ: Controversial but popular victory spray
- Heart: Positive community building spray
- Thumbs Up: Quick appreciation spray
- Team logos: Support your favorite esports team
Graffiti History
The graffiti system has evolved significantly from the early days of Counter-Strike.
Original Counter-Strike Sprays
1999-2012Players could upload custom spray images to use in-game. This led to creative expression but also inappropriate content, requiring community server moderation.
CS:GO Launch (No Sprays)
August 2012CS:GO launched without spray functionality. The feature was removed to address content moderation concerns from the original system.
Graffiti Update
October 2016Valve introduced the modern graffiti system with curated designs and the charge mechanic. First graffiti capsules released with community and Valve-designed sprays.
Tournament Graffiti
2017 onwardsMajor Championships began including team and player autograph graffiti in capsules, adding an esports dimension to the graffiti economy.
CS2 Transition
September 2023Graffiti system carried over to Counter-Strike 2 with the same mechanics. All existing graffiti items remained usable in the new game.
For information on other CS2 cosmetic systems and their histories, explore our guides on Sticker Capsules and Music Kits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is graffiti in CS2?
Graffiti (sprays) are cosmetic items that let you spray images on in-game surfaces. They appear as decals on walls and floors, visible to all players. Graffiti has limited charges and is consumed after use. It's purely cosmetic with no gameplay effect.
How many charges does CS2 graffiti have?
Standard graffiti from capsules has 50 charges. Each time you spray in a match, one charge is consumed. When you reach zero charges, the graffiti is permanently deleted from your inventory. Some default/free graffiti may have unlimited charges.
How do you get graffiti in CS2?
You can get graffiti by opening Graffiti Capsules (purchased from the store or Steam Market), buying individual sealed graffiti from the Steam Community Market, receiving weekly drops (rarely), or earning special graffiti during Major tournaments and events.
Can I trade graffiti with charges used?
No. Once you apply (unseal) graffiti to use it, it becomes untradeable. Only sealed graffiti with full 50 charges can be traded on the Steam Market. This is why collectors keep valuable graffiti sealed.
What are the graffiti rarity tiers?
CS2 graffiti uses four rarity tiers: Base Grade (white/gray, most common), High Grade (light blue), Remarkable (purple), and Exotic (pink, rarest). Higher rarity graffiti is harder to obtain from capsules and typically more valuable.
How long does a spray last in-game?
Sprays appear on surfaces for approximately 45 seconds before fading away. You can only spray once per round in competitive matches, so use it wisely. Casual modes have slightly more flexible spray limits.
Is graffiti worth buying?
That depends on what you value. Graffiti is consumable entertainment—it will eventually be used up. Consider your cost-per-spray and whether the enjoyment is worth it. Expensive graffiti becomes a luxury item with significant per-use cost.
Can graffiti charges be refilled?
No. There is no way to add more charges to graffiti. Once the 50 charges are used, the item is permanently deleted. The only option is to acquire a new sealed graffiti of the same design.
Related CS2 Guides & Tools
Explore more CS2 educational content:
- Sticker Capsules Guide - Another cosmetic capsule system in CS2
- 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
- Souvenir Packages Guide - Tournament collectibles and Major drops
- All CS2 Tools - Browse our complete toolkit
Final Perspective:
"Graffiti occupies a unique space in CS2's cosmetic economy. Unlike skins that last forever, sprays are consumable—each use brings you closer to losing the item entirely. This creates genuine scarcity for sealed graffiti and makes expensive sprays a true luxury. For most players, affordable graffiti provides plenty of fun for expression. For collectors, tournament and limited graffiti offers investment potential as supply slowly depletes. Either way, understand that you're paying for temporary joy—and there's nothing wrong with that if you approach it with open eyes."
Important Disclaimer
This guide is for educational purposes only. Opening graffiti 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