“M4A4 vs M4A1-S” is the debate that’s been going around the Counter-Strike community for a decade now. While both rifles are excellent choices, they cater to different playstyles and situations.
So, how do you choose between the two? Which one has better CS2 skins, and which rifle is the most preferred by pro players? In this Hellcase guide, we will look closer at the difference between M4A4 and M4A1-S so you can make an informed choice on the battlefield!
AdvertisementIn article you will find:
It’s time to delve deep into the details of the CS2 M4A4 vs M4A1-S battle and explore the key aspects that can influence your choice between the two and your performance in-game.
Here is the table comparing the most important tech characteristics of the two weapons. Take a look. Further, we will observe each statistic and understand what they mean.
| Stat | M4A4 | M4A1-S |
| Official description | “More accurate but less damaging than its AK-47 counterpart, the M4A4 is the full-auto assault rifle of choice for CTs.” | “With a smaller magazine than its unmuffled counterpart, the silenced M4A1 provides quieter shots with less recoil and better accuracy.” |
| TTK (Short Range) | 0.36 seconds | 0.30 seconds |
| TTK (Long Range) | 0.36 seconds | 0.40 seconds |
| Fire rate | 666.67 RPM | 600.00 RPM |
| Raw Damage | 33 | 38 |
| Head Damage (Armor) | 131 | 132 |
| Head Damage (No armor) | 92 | 92 |
| Armor Penetration | 70.00% | 70.00% |
| Recoil | 23.0 | 21.0 |
| Crouching Inaccuracy | 4.70 | 4.60 |
| Standing Inaccuracy | 5.50 | 5.40 |
| Running Inaccuracy | 143.38 | 127.50 |
| Magazine Size | 30 | 25 |
| Ammo Reverse | 90 | 80 |
| Silencer | No | Yes (optional) |
| Price | $3,100 | $2,900 |
| Kill Reward | $300 | $300 |
| Longe Range | +- | + |
| Medium Range | + | +- |
| Close Range | + | +- |
Understanding these stats and how they translate into gameplay will help you make the most effective choice for your role in the team. Now, let’s discuss what these statistics mean.
To start off, the M4A4 has a faster fire rate compared to the M4A1-S. This makes it a beast in close-to-middle-range combat, allowing you to unleash a barrage of bullets quickly.
The M4A1-S fires slower than the M4A4, which makes it more controllable during sustained fire. This weapon will be a better choice for those who can aim well and prioritize accuracy over speed.
The damage aspect of the M4A1S vs M4A4 battle is important. The M4A1-S has a higher base damage per shot (38) than the M4A4 (33), which can be crucial in situations where every shot counts. Notably, neither weapon can finish an enemy with a single headshot if they have a helmet. To gain a deeper understanding of how damage works, read our CS2 Damage Guide.
Speaking of the penetration ability, the M4A4 can shoot through thin walls and objects, giving you an edge in certain situations. For example, it is much easier to deal high damage to an enemy crouching behind the Car on Banana, Inferno, if you shoot them with an M4A4 instead of an M4A1-S.
So, what about spray control? The spray pattern of M4A4 is more challenging to control due to the higher rate of fire, especially during sustained fire. It kicks up more sharply, but with practice, you can master its rhythm. In close-range fights, full-auto can be devastating. However, at longer ranges, burst firing is recommended to maintain accuracy.
On the other hand, the M4A1-S has a more forgiving spray pattern that is easier to learn and also easier to control. It’s highly accurate for the first shot, making it excellent for picking off enemies at a distance.
The M4A4 comes with a 30-round magazine, offering more bullets before needing to reload. It also has a higher ammo reserve, which is excellent for prolonged engagements or when holding down a site without much support.
M4A1-S has a 25-round magazine, so you have fewer bullets per magazine. The ammo reserve is also lower, making ammo management more crucial.
The M4A4 is louder, making it less ideal for stealthy plays. Your enemies will hear you coming, so it’s more about brute force than sneaky tactics. The M4A1-S comes with an optional silencer, offering stealth advantages. This feature is absent in the M4A4.
The silencer makes your M4A1-S quieter and perfect for stealthy plays. You can take down enemies without giving away your position as easily.
Let’s finish the stat discussion by summing up the effectiveness range of both rifles.
It’s time to discover the best weapon picks based on the map you play.
On certain CS2 maps, the right pick between M4A4 vs M4A1S might give you an edge. Different maps have unique layouts and combat scenarios, making one weapon potentially more advantageous than the other in specific contexts.
Tight, close-range maps may benefit from the M4A4, while open maps with longer sightlines may favor the M4A1-S. The M4A4 excels in scenarios where rapid response is needed. It’s ideal for aggressive pushes or defending against rushes.
Inferno, Nuke, and Vertigo:These maps are known for their tight corners and close combat situations. The M4A4, with its higher rate of fire and larger magazine, is more suitable for these scenarios. It allows you to engage multiple enemies quickly, often in these maps’ narrow corridors and small rooms.
Dust II, Mirage, and Train: These maps feature longer sightlines and open areas. The M4A1-S can be more effective on these maps due to its higher accuracy and lower recoil.
Overpass, Ancient, and Anubis:These maps offer a mix of close and long-range combat scenarios. Your choice here might depend more on your role in the team or the specific area you are defending. For instance, the B site on Overpass has elements of close combat, favoring the M4A4, whereas the A site offers longer sightlines, potentially making the M4A1-S a better choice.
Also, you should pay attention to how your opponents play. If they opt for fast, aggressive pushes, the M4A4’s firepower can be crucial in winning rounds against them. If they play a slower, more methodical game, the precision of the M4A1-S could give you the upper hand.
Being among the most popular and well-liked weapons in the history of the Counter-Strike series, the M4A4, and the M4A1-S both have great skin collections that cater to various tastes and budgets.
Comparing their skin collections will not be as objective as comparing their tech characteristics. So, we will leave it to you. Instead, see the best M4A4 Skins Under $10.
On Hellcase, you can find a ton of exclusive and original weapon cases with beautiful and cheap CS2 skins. Do you want these and other cosmetics for M4A4 and M4A1-S for a much lower price? Check out our M4 Case!
Let’s sum up the m4a1s vs m4a4 battle. Based on these stats, the M4A4 is a more versatile choice for players who engage in varied combat scenarios and prefer a higher rate of fire. Its larger magazine and ammo reserve also make it suitable for aggressive playstyles and situations where you expect to face multiple enemies.
On the other hand, the M4A1-S, with its higher damage per shot, better accuracy, and optional silencer, is ideal for players who prioritize precision and stealth. It’s particularly effective in maps with longer sightlines or when you need to engage enemies without revealing your position.
If you’re aggressive and like to hold sites with a lot of action, the M4A4’s higher ammo capacity and fire rate are your best friends. However, if you’re more about precision, lurking, and sneaky plays, the M4A1-S will suit you better.
Your choice might also depend on your team’s overall strategy. If your team lacks firepower in close-quarter combat, the M4A4 might be the way to go. Conversely, if you’re playing a more supportive or backline role, the M4A1-S could be more suitable.
The M4A1-S is slightly cheaper, which can be a factor in tight economic situations. Luckily, CS2 introduced the loadout feature, allowing you to add both CT-exclusive assault rifles to your in-game arsenal. You can buy any two weapons from the Buy Menu during one match. There is no need to switch between the two.
Advertisement
Top CS2 players had a mixed reaction regarding the latest M4A1-S update, which changed its range modifier from 0.99 to 0.94. Some feel that the nerf has significantly impacted the effectiveness of the M4A1-S, while others believe it still has its unique advantages.
Watch this video to find out which weapons are preferred by professional CS2 players.
You can also watch popular players like YEKINDAR, rain, k0nfig, arT, frozen, and others share their thoughts on the recent nerf to the M4A1-S.
Many CS2 pro players choose between the M4A4 vs M4A1S based on their playstyles, the map, and the specific in-game situations. The M4A4 favors a more aggressive and versatile approach, while the M4A1-S caters to precision and stealth.
Pro players emphasize the importance of adaptability. They suggest that players should be proficient with both weapons to adjust their playstyle as needed.
Ultimately, the answer to the CS2 M4A4 vs M4A1S battle is subjective to your preferences. Both guns have their pros and cons. The key to mastering either weapon lies in practice, regardless of your choice. Spend time in aim maps, learn the spray patterns, and understand the situations where each weapon shines. If you keep practicing and refining your skills with both weapons, you will surely become a versatile and formidable player.
Explore Hellcase Blog for interesting articles about CS2 skins and other cosmetics, including our selection of the best CS2 Worksop Skins. Learn how to play with our in-depth game guides and stay tuned with our esports news.