Elden Ring: How to two hand weapons?

Much like prior soulslikes, it is possible to two hand weapons in Elden Ring. Simply put, the two handed mode allows you to grab a weapon using both hands, increasing its damage output at the cost of movement speed. This stance can be changed anytime during gameplay, allowing for some interesting combat tactics.

A breakdown of the methods to two hand in Elden Ring can be found detailed below, broken down for each platform.

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How to two hand weapons in Elden Ring: All controller configurations explored

Two handing requires a set of controller inputs (Image via FromSoftware)

To dual wield in Elden Ring, you must first equip a weapon. Once equipped in your right hand, refer to the following button combinations for the PlayStation, Xbox, and PC controller/keyboard inputs:

• PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5: Triangle + R1 (right bumper)
• Xbox One or Xbox Series X/S: Y + RB (right bumper)
• PC (using keyboard and mouse): E + right mouse button

Keep in mind that this maneuver will sheathe your secondary weapon/unequip your shield when used. To revert to the one-handed stance, press the aforementioned inputs again.

To two hand in Elden Ring using the weapon equipped on your left hand, refer to the inputs below:

• PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5: Triangle + L1 (left bumper)
• Xbox One or Xbox Series X/S: Y + LB (left bumper)
• PC (keyboard and mouse): E + left mouse button

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How to dual wield in Elden Ring

Dual wielding has many benefits (Image via FromSoftware)

Dual wielding is not the same as two handing. It requires you to equip two of the same weapon, one in each hand. Doing so will automatically unlock the Power Stance, which brings several benefits, such as boosted damage.

While it is possible to dual wield using two different weapons in Elden Ring, it is generally not recommended since you lose out on the Power Stance bonuses.

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Should you two hand in Elden Ring?

Two handing a weapon is generally very useful, albeit risky (Image via FromSoftware)

Attempting to two hand weapons in this soulslike title requires finesse and skill. This move requires a good deal of practice, thanks to the set of drawbacks it brings with it. In short, a two-handed weapon will greatly reduce your movement and guard strength - sometimes nullifying it entirely.

While it may seem disadvantageous, the boosted damage output this stance offers makes it well worth the risk. Regardless, this move is best left for the more seasoned or adventurous player, in most cases.

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FAQs on two hand weapons in Elden Ring

Q1) Does two handed do more damage in Elden Ring?

Yes, two-handing a weapon in Elden Ring increases your effective Strength by 50%, which translates to more damage. However, you sacrifice the ability to use a shield for blocking.

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Q2) Is dual wielding better than two-handing Elden Ring?

There is no definitive answer and it depends on your playstyle. Dual wielding offers faster attacks and potentially more damage, but you lose the ability to block with a shield. Two-handing gives you a damage boost and strong attacks, but at the cost of slower swings and no shield.

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For more content on Elden Ring, check out the following:

• Elden Ring manga goes on hiatus for author to play Shadow of the Erdtree
• Elden Ring guide: How to easily defeat Radahn
• Best Strength-Faith build
• Best Intelligence-Dexterity build
• Best Dexterity-Arcane build