CS2 Wear Value Optimizer
Compare skin prices across all five wear conditions to find the best value for your budget. This tool calculates value scores based on price, appearance quality, and your priorities to help you make smarter purchasing decisions.
Why Wear Condition Matters for Value
In CS2, the same skin can vary dramatically in price based on its float value (wear condition). A Factory New skin might cost 5x more than Field-Tested, but only look marginally better. This tool helps you identify which condition offers the best balance of price and appearance for any skin. According to Steam's documentation, float values directly determine visual wear on skins.
What's Your Priority?
Select what matters most to you when choosing a skin:
Enter Skin Prices by Wear Condition
Input current market prices for each wear condition. Leave blank for conditions not available or not of interest. Prices can be found on the Steam Community Market or third-party marketplaces.
📊 Value Analysis Results
Detailed Comparison
| Condition | Price | Quality Score | Price/Quality Ratio | Value Score | Verdict |
|---|
💡 Recommendation
Analysis will appear here after calculation.
Understanding Wear Value in CS2
When purchasing CS2 skins, many players default to buying Factory New without considering whether it offers the best value. Understanding the relationship between wear conditions and price can save you significant money while still getting a great-looking skin.
The Wear Condition Price Gap
According to market data from the Steam Community Market, Factory New skins typically cost 2-10x more than Field-Tested versions of the same skin. However, the visual difference is often minimal, especially on certain skin types. Research from Valve's developer documentation shows that different finish types wear differently.
When Factory New Is Worth It
- Investment purposes: FN skins generally hold value better and are more liquid
- Pattern-dependent skins: Fades, Dopplers, and Marble Fades often require FN for optimal patterns
- Showcase collections: If appearance is paramount and budget isn't a concern
- Trading up: Higher tier conditions are needed for trade-up contracts
When Lower Wear Conditions Offer Better Value
- Skins with minimal visible wear: Some skins look nearly identical across conditions
- Gameplay-focused players: In-game, condition differences are often imperceptible
- Budget builds: Get your dream loadout for a fraction of the FN cost
- Some "gunsmith" finishes: These often don't show much wear until BS
Float Value Impact by Skin Type
Different skin finish types respond differently to wear:
- Anodized/Anodized Multicolored: Wear is very visible, FN premium often justified
- Patina: Wear adds character, lower conditions can look better to some
- Gunsmith: Minimal visible wear until Battle-Scarred
- Hydrographic: Pattern stays consistent, wear mostly affects edges
- Custom Paint Job: Highly variable, always inspect before buying
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this calculator determine "best value"?
The calculator uses a formula that weighs price against a quality score for each condition. Quality scores are based on the float value ranges: FN (100%), MW (90%), FT (75%), WW (55%), BS (30%). The best value is the condition with the optimal price-to-quality ratio based on your selected priority.
Why does Minimal Wear often show as best value?
MW skins typically offer 90% of the visual quality of FN at 40-60% of the price. For many skins, the visual difference between FN and MW is imperceptible in-game, making MW an excellent value proposition. However, this varies by skin type and individual preferences.
Should I always buy the "best value" condition?
Not necessarily. Your choice depends on personal factors: if you plan to resell, FN is more liquid. If you're building a budget loadout, FT or even BS might be perfect. If appearance is paramount, FN or low-float MW is ideal. The calculator provides data to inform your decision, not make it for you.
How accurate are the quality percentages?
The quality percentages are simplified estimates based on float ranges and typical visual appearance. Actual visual quality varies significantly by skin type, specific float value within the range, and individual pattern. Always inspect skins before purchasing to verify appearance.
Does float value matter within a condition?
Yes. A 0.07 float FN skin looks nearly identical to a 0.08 MW skin (which is the best possible MW float). Float matters more within conditions than the condition label itself. Use our Float Checker to analyze specific float values.
Which skins have the smallest FN-to-FT price gap?
Skins with "Gunsmith" finish types (like the M4A4 | Howl or AK-47 | Fire Serpent) often have smaller gaps because wear is less visible. Similarly, skins where the pattern covers most wear points maintain appearance across conditions. Research specific skins on the Steam Market for accurate comparisons.
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Last updated: January 2026