Summary
Shields are a type of gear inThe Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrimthat help players block attacks when used alongside a one-handed weapon. Utilizing a shield is an effective strategy, especially when facing enemy archers, particularly if the player has unlocked the Deflect Arrows perk from the skill tree.
There are various types of shields available in the game, some of which are rated better than others. As players progress through the game, they unlock superior shields, many of which are unique and come with built-in enchantments that significantly enhance the player’s chances of success against the diverse enemies found throughout Skyrim.
10Amber Shield
The Best Base Light Armor Shield In The Game
To gain access to the Amber Shield, players must purchase the Saints & Seducers content from the Creation Club, which is available for those who upgrade to the Anniversary Edition ofThe Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim. Specifically, players need to complete the Amber and Madness and Smithing quest.
For those who prefer light armor, the Amber Shield is one of the best choices, as it has the highest armor rating among light shields. This means it offers superior protection while benefiting from the reduced carry weight associated with light armor. Additionally, the Amber Shield features a stunning design and boasts a unique color that sets it apart from other shields.
9Aetherial Shield
Decent Enchantment But Lacks Upgrade
During the quest “Lost to the Ages,” players have the option to craft one of three pieces of equipment: the Aetherial Crown, the Aetherial Staff, or the Aetherial Shield. Opting for the Aetherial Shield is a great choice, as it serves as a decent shield in the game. With a base armor rating of 26, it may not be the best shield available, but it can be upgraded with a Dwarven Metal Ingot at a workbench.
What distinguishes this shield is its unique enchantment, which enhances its defensive capabilities. When the player performs a shield bash, the target becomes ethereal and flees, making them unable to attack or hit the player. This is especially advantageous for players who need a moment to recover or reposition themselves when facing a group of enemies.
8Ebony Shield
A Standard Shield With Decent Armor Rating
When it comes to base shields, the ebony shield is an excellent choice due to its solid armor rating of 32, which can be further enhanced at a workbench. However, players will need to unlock the Ebony Smithing perkby reaching a Smithing rating of 80.
Many fans have their personal opinions, but the ebony shield is regarded as one of the most aesthetically pleasing shields in the game, especially when paired with the complete set of ebony armor featuring its sleek black color scheme. Unfortunately, the ebony shield does not come with any built-in enchantments, but players can easily add one at an enchantment table.
7Dawnguard Rune Shield
Great Enchantment, But Lacks Protection
The Dawnguard Rune Shield is an item added in the Dawnguard DLC ofSkyrim, which players obtain while joining the vampire hunters. This light armor shield features some impressive enchantments. It has “Fortify Bash,” which inflicts an additional 10 points of damage when used against vampires, and “Sun-Shield,” which not only deals 10 points of damage but also drains the enemy’s stamina when blocking.
These unique enhancements make the Dawnguard Rune Shield one of the best shields in the game, as it delivers significantly more offensive damage compared to other shields. However, it does have some limitations in terms of defensive capabilities.
6Dragonplate Shield
A Strong Standard Shield
The Dragonplate Shield is one of the non-unique shields in the game, yet it stands out as a solid choice, ranking as the second-best shield available in the base game. To craft it, players will need one dragon bone, three dragon scales, and one leather strip. Additionally, a smithing level of 100 and the Dragon Armor smithing perk are required.
With an armor rating of 34, the Dragonplate Shield can be significantly improved at a workbench, providing excellent protection against various attacks in the world of Skyrim. However, players will need to invest considerable effort to reach this level of crafting, which includesslaying several dragonsto acquire the full set of armor.
5Shield Of Ysgramor
Great Enchantments And Can Be Found Early
The Shield of Ysgramor is a unique shield found during the “Glory of the Dead” quest, which is part of the Companions' missions leading players to Ysgramor’s Tomb. This shield offers a 20% resistance to magic and also grants 20 additional health points to the player, making it an excellent defensive tool.
Players can obtain it fairly early in the game if they focus on the Companions quests. However, a significant drawback of this shield is that it cannot be upgraded, causing it to become less effective as players progress to higher levels.
4Daedric Shield
The Strongest Standard Shield In The Base Game
The Daedric Shield isnotable for its distinctive and intimidating design, especially when paired with a complete set of Daedric Armor. It has an armor rating of 36, which can be improved by using an Ebony Ingot at a workbench.
To craft the Daedric Shield at a forge, players need a smithing level of 90 and must have the Daedric Smithing perk. Alternatively, from level 48 onward, players might find one throughout Skyrim. While it is the strongest non-unique shield available in the base game and provides substantial protection, there are a few better options for players who have fully explored Skyrim and its expansions.
3Madness Shield
The Strongest Shield That Can Be Crafted
The Madness Shield is the best non-unique shield in the game, but players must purchase the Saints & Seducers content from the Creation Club, which is available with the upgrade to the Anniversary Edition. To obtain the shield, players also need to complete the Amber and Madness quest and the Smithing quest.
The Madness Shield has a unique appearance that may not appeal to everyone, but it certainly stands out from other shields. With a base armor rating of 38, it is tied for the highest armor rating in the game and can be further improved using a Madness Ingot at a workbench.
2Auriel’s Shield
Strong Shield With An Awesome Enchantment
Auriel’s Shield is an excellent option for gamers, providing reliable protection throughout the game. It has a solid armor rating of 32 and can be significantly improved with Refined Moonstone at a workbench, depending on the player’s unlocked Smithing perks.
This shield isfound in the Dawnguard DLC, specifically in the Forgotten Vale Forest, where it can be obtained from a Falmer Warmonger. A unique feature of Auriel’s Shield is its ability to absorb energy from incoming attacks, which can then be released as a powerful blast similar to the Unrelenting Force shout.
1Spellbreaker
The Best Shield To Use In Game
Without a doubt, the best shield to use in the game is the Spellbreaker. It boasts the highest base armor rating of 38, which can be further upgraded to more than double this amount with the appropriate perks unlocked from the Smithing skill. To obtain this shield, players must visit the Shrine of Peryite and speak with Kesh the Clean to start the quest “The Only Cure.”
In addition to being the most defensive shield, Spellbreaker features a unique enchantment that protects the user from 50 points of magic damage. This ability is incredibly valuable inSkyrim, as many enemiesuse various magical attacksagainst the player.
