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Continue ShoppingIf you've just started exploring Path of Exile 2, the Orb of Transmutation is probably one of the first crafting currency items you'll pick up. It drops everywhere, it feels simple, and you'll likely gather a ton of them without trying. But even though it's one of the most basic currencies, using it smartly can make your early game smoother and your crafting path more efficient.
This guide breaks down what it does, how to get it, and when you should actually use it—based on real player needs and common beginner questions.
At its core, the Orb of Transmutation upgrades a normal (white) item into a magic (blue) item with one random affix.
Think of it as the first small step of crafting: white → blue.
It doesn't guarantee a good affix, and it doesn't let you choose the stats. It simply adds one modifier and turns the item blue.
Because of that, it's a low-risk, low-value orb—but still very useful during early progression.
Good news: you get these everywhere.
Since they're so common, don't feel pressured to “save” them for late-game. Their value is mostly in the early crafting ladder.
Even though Transmutation Orbs are basic, you still shouldn't throw them on every white item you see.
Use them when:
If the weapon/armor has strong inherent stats, turning it blue might carry you for several levels.
No point upgrading something you'll toss two minutes later.
The item may become:
Transmutation is the “start button” for these chains.
Things like flasks often get overlooked, but a simple affix early on can make a difference.
Because Transmutation Orbs drop so often, you don't need to hoard them. They're not “valuable” in the economy and they're designed for basic crafting.
But you should avoid wasting them by:
A good rule of thumb:
If the item has a strong base and will help you survive the next few fights, upgrade it.
Here are traps a lot of new players fall into:
Here's the simple comparison:
| Currency | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Orb of Transmutation | Normal → Magic (1 modifier) |
| Orb of Augmentation | Adds an extra modifier to a Magic item |
| Orb of Alchemy | Normal → Rare (multiple modifiers) |
| Regal Orb | Magic → Rare by adding a new modifier |
Transmutation is the foundation. Everything else builds on top of it.
Yes—because they decide which modifiers can appear.
So don't waste your orbs on low-level or outdated gear unless you really need a short-term upgrade.
Not really.
They're common, easy to get, and usually traded in bulk only for convenience.
Still, they serve a purpose in:
You'll always have a use for them, even if they're not “valuable.”
That's all there is to it.
If you're unsure when to use your orbs, focus on:
If the upgrade helps you right now, it's usually worth the orb.
The Orb of Transmutation is one of PoE 2's simplest currencies, but using it well still matters. It turns white items into magic ones, giving you a small but useful stat boost during early progression. Only use it on good bases or items you'll keep for a bit, and avoid wasting it on weak gear. While cheap and common, it remains a key part of the crafting ladder and the early game economy.
