M4A4 vs M4A1-S: Which is Better to Buy in CS2?
In the world of CS2, every detail matters, from the accuracy of the shot to the choice of the weapon you hold in your hands. The M4A4 and M4A1-S are two symbols of tactical play for the counter-terrorist side, each with its own strengths and devoted fans. Are you faced with an important choice between the M4A4 and M4A1-S and want to know about their advantages and disadvantages? This article is definitely for you! We will consider the features of the M4A4 and M4A1-S, as well as the best skins for these weapons.
Overview of the M4A4 and M4A1-S Skins
For CS2 players, M4A4 and M4A1-S skins are not only an opportunity to reflect their combat style but also an opportunity to invest in rare and valuable skins with potential. Despite the combat differences between the two weapons, which we will discuss in more detail later, the skins have something in common: diversity, beauty, and value. Let’s take a look at the most popular skins for each weapon and their features. Let the M4A4 vs M4A1-S battle begin!
M4A4 Skins
For players who play with M4A4 in CS2, there are quite a lot of skins. They are distinguished by bright and memorable designs, which often reflect the fighting spirit and rich game style.
Here are just some popular skins for M4A4:
- M4A4 | Howl: This is a truly unique skin that has become a legend in the short time it has been in the game. It has a classic black and red design with an aggressive wolf. Due to its rarity, Howl’s price reaches hundreds of thousands of dollars, as the skin was removed from CS due to copyright infringement.
- M4A4 | Temukau: Temukau has an anime-style design. It exudes energy and positivity. Made in white and blue tones with an addition of a counter-terrorist girl and bright pink inscriptions, this Covert skin released in 2023 is perfect for fans of brightness.
- M4A4 | Poseidon: This is one of the most beautiful skins with a marine theme. The design is made in different shades of blue and green. On the front, there is an image of Poseidon, which perfectly emphasizes the power and sophistication of the weapon itself.
- M4A4 | Desolate Space: The game has a Desolate Space skin for lovers of details and fantasy. Here, the space theme is combined with almost incompatible colors: purple, blue, and yellow.
- M4A4 | Royal Paladin: There are also more discreet skins for the M4A4. Royal Paladin, an elegant skin with gold and silver accents, is one of them. Small geometric details add beauty to this skin.

If you think that M4A4 vs M4A1-S skins are more colorful, then you are wrong. Now, let’s move on to skins for the M4A1-S.
M4A1-S Skins
There are no less cool skins in CS2 for M4A1-S. A harmonious combination of colors and fictional characters distinguishes their design. But for those who avoid bright designs, there are more laconic options.
Let’s look at the most popular skins
- M4A1-S | Decimator: The neon purple style with its geometric pattern has won the hearts of many CS2 players. If you appreciate modern designs with a hint of mystery, Decimator is a great solution.
- M4A1-S | Printstream: This skin is part of the iconic “Printstream” skin series. The design is black and white, with pearl inserts that look stylish and expensive.
- M4A1-S | Hyper Beast: This skin is the absolute opposite of the previous one. Its bright and fantastic design, made in blue, green, and red, with the image of the beast’s teeth, reflects fearlessness and aggression. It is perfect for players who love non-standard designs.
- M4A1-S | Guardian: This skin has a discreet and minimalistic design in black and blue tones. It is a great choice for those who appreciate the classics and want to remain unnoticed.
- M4A1-S | Golden Coil: Beautiful and elegant—this is what Golden Coil looks like. It is one of the best skins with golden elements. The image of a snake and imitation of scales give the skin’s design a special charm.

Comparing M4A1-S vs M4A4 skins is a tricky one, as there are some great options for both rifles.
In-Depth Comparison Of The M4A4 & M4A1-S
The M4A4 and M4A1-S definitely have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between these weapons depends only on the playstyle of a particular player. Let’s look at the key differences between the M4A4 and M4A1-S if you play for the CT side in CS2.
Spray Control
It is no secret that the spray control skills are very important for a player in the pursuit of success. It is worth admitting that the M4A1-S wins here, as its spray control is easier to master. This allows players to hit enemies at medium and long ranges, which can be especially important for those players who have not mastered the complex schemes of spray control.
The M4A4, on the contrary, offers players a more complex spray control. However, for experienced players this does not mean anything, as they can successfully use a high rate of fire. With the spray control indicator of M4A4 vs M4A1-S everything is very clear. What about the price difference between the weapons?
Price
The financial issue when choosing between the M4A1-S and the M4A4 is also very important. Here, the M4A1-S also gets an advantage, since the price of the weapon is $2,900, while the price of the M4A4 is $3,100. Of course, it may seem that the difference of $200 is insignificant, but in the conditions of strict economic control, such a difference can significantly affect the tactical decisions of the entire team. So, in the price comparison of M4A1-S vs M4A4, the former wins.
Fire Rate
One of the main advantages of the M4A4 is its rate of fire. The rate is 666 rounds per minute. Here, the victory goes to the M4A4, since the M4A1-S has a rate of fire of 600 rounds per minute. Thus, the M4A4 is an excellent weapon for dynamic battles, where speed is important for a successful outcome.
Damage
Speaking of damage, the M4A1-S has better performance against armored opponents. The M4A1-S’s damage to the chest, legs, and stomach is 26, 28, and 33, while the M4A4’s damage to the chest, legs, and stomach is 23, 24, and 28. The difference is small, but it can be offset by the M4A1-S’s lower rate of fire. When considering the damage of M4A1-S vs M4A4, it is worth focusing on your own preferences.
Magazine Size
The last factor to consider when choosing between the M4A4 and M4A1-S is the magazine capacity. The M4A4 has the advantage here: it has a 30-round magazine, while the M4A1-S has a 20-round magazine. Players who prefer shooting through smoke or shooting at walls to check enemy positions are better off with the M4A4. Players with excellent accuracy will not find the reduced magazine size a problem.
It is worth mentioning an important difference between the weapons here. The M4A4 does not have a silencer, so the mentioned shooting style may not be successful. The M4A1-S supports a silencer, so this weapon is great for calculated attacks on enemies.
M4A4 vs M4A1-S Stats Comparison
Each rifle has its pros and cons. Let’s summarize the M4A4 and M4A1-S evaluations by highlighting their features. So, here are the results for M4A4 vs M4A1-S.
M4A4’s Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
High rate of fire for intense firefights; 30-round magazine and 120-round total ammunition supply provide consistent firepower; Versatility for close combat and various scenarios | Higher recoil requires precise control; Higher price tag |
M4A1-S’s Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
Support for a suppressor reduces noise; Low recoil contributes to high accuracy; Lower cost | Only a 20-round magazine and 100-round total ammunition supply limit firepower; Frequent reloading and the need for precise shooting |
Comparison of M4A1-S vs M4A4 shows that both rifles have advantages. How to choose between them?
M4A1-S vs M4A4: Which One to Choose?
The choice between the M4A4 and M4A1-S depends on your individual playstyle and preferred positions on the map. For example, if you play solo in competitive mode, you might want to consider the M4A4 as it has a higher rate of fire and a larger magazine, which is especially useful in intense firefights and holding points. If you tend to play a support or IGL role, you might want to consider the M4A1-S. You’ll save $200 but still get the same great results.
If you look at the choice of pro players, it becomes clear that they prefer the M4A1-S. They use this rifle to perform synchronized attacks or flanking maneuvers. In the hands of experienced players, the M4A1-S can become an effective tool for disrupting opponents’ strategies and maintaining control of the game.
Wrapping Up!
The choice between the M4A4 and M4A1-S depends on the player’s playstyle, tactical preferences, and, of course, strategic outlook on the future. Both rifles have unique characteristics that can make them ideal for certain scenarios. Before purchasing a weapon, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with its pros and cons and evaluate potential use cases. Don’t miss the chance to check out the best skins for the M4A4 and M4A1-S on ShadowPay, which feature colorful designs and affordable prices.
How Much Damage Does M4A4 Do?
The M4A4 deals 92 damage when shot in the head of an enemy. Damage to the chest, stomach, and legs is 23, 28, and 24, respectively.
How Much Damage Does M4A1-S Do in CS2?
Just like the M4A4, the M4A1-S deals 92 damage when shooting an enemy in the head. Damage to the chest, stomach, and legs reaches 26, 33, and 28, respectively.
Which M4 is Better in CS2?
The choice of M4 depends on the players’ playing style, so it is worth considering the characteristics of the weapon. Pro players most often choose the M4A1-S.
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