What This Farming Guide Covers
This page explains how I approach farming currency and items in Path of Exile and Path of Exile 2. The focus is on repeatable methods that work through normal play, without relying on luck alone. Everything described here is based on real gameplay and tested routes, not theory or copied setups.
The goal of farming is simple: earn resources at a steady pace while keeping play sessions manageable.
Understanding Farming Goals
Before choosing a farming method, it is important to define a goal. Some players farm to fund new builds, others to upgrade gear, and some to prepare for endgame bosses. Each goal requires a different approach.
I always recommend choosing one clear target. Trying to farm everything at once often leads to poor results and wasted time.
Early Progress Farming
During early progress, farming should focus on consistency rather than high value drops. Maps or areas that can be cleared quickly with low risk are ideal. At this stage, time efficiency matters more than chasing rare items.
Selling common drops, currency shards, and usable items provides stable income and builds a base for later investment.
Midgame Farming Methods
Midgame farming opens more options. At this point, characters usually have enough power to handle harder content without slowing down. This is where specialization begins to matter.
I focus on content that matches the build’s strengths. Fast-clearing builds benefit from dense areas, while stronger single-target builds perform better in encounters with fewer enemies and higher rewards.
Endgame Farming Focus
Endgame farming is where planning matters most. Investing in maps, content modifiers, or crafting strategies can increase returns, but mistakes become more costly.
I recommend tracking results over time. A method that feels profitable after one lucky run may perform poorly across many sessions. Consistent returns matter more than rare spikes.
Choosing the Right Content
Not all content suits every build. Some mechanics slow down clear speed or require specific defenses. I always test content with a build before committing fully.
If a farming method feels frustrating or forces constant deaths, it usually means the setup is wrong for that character. Switching to a better match saves time and currency.
Managing Time and Burnout
Efficient farming depends on pacing. Long sessions without breaks often lead to mistakes and slower play. I prefer shorter sessions with clear goals.
Stopping when returns drop helps maintain focus. Farming should support enjoyment, not replace it.
Currency Management
Farming success depends on how currency is handled after it drops. Holding onto items without purpose ties up resources. I regularly sell unused items and reinvest currency into upgrades or farming setups.
Clear inventory management saves time and prevents missed opportunities.
Farming in Path of Exile 2
Path of Exile 2 introduces changes that affect farming flow. Combat pacing, skill behavior, and encounter design differ from the original game. Farming methods must adjust to these differences.
I treat Path of Exile 2 farming separately and avoid assuming that old habits will work the same way. Guides on this site clearly state which game they apply to.
Mistakes to Avoid
Common farming mistakes include chasing rare drops, copying setups without understanding them, and ignoring build limits. These mistakes slow progress and cause frustration.
I encourage players to review results honestly and change methods when something does not work.
Updating Farming Strategies
Farming methods change with patches and balance updates. I review and update farming-related content when systems shift or rewards are adjusted.
Readers should always check patch relevance before following older advice.
Final Thoughts on Farming
Farming works best when it fits your build, your goals, and your available time. There is no single best method for everyone.
This guide exists to help players approach farming with structure and clarity. When done right, farming supports progress instead of feeling like a chore.