In Old School RuneScape (OSRS), players often ask a simple question: Does a higher combat level always mean more power in PvP? The answer is not straightforward. While combat level measures your overall stats, DPS output (damage per second) is often a better indicator of how deadly you are in a fight.
Some builds keep combat level low but push out high DPS, while others trade raw damage for defence and survivability. This guide compares combat level vs DPS output and shows which PvP builds give the best results.
What Combat Level Really Means
Combat level is a formula that combines Attack, Strength, Defence, Hitpoints, Ranged, Magic, and Prayer.
- High combat level → balanced stats, usually more defence and hitpoints.
- Lower combat level builds → specialized in a few skills, often maximized for DPS efficiency (pures).
It’s important to understand that combat level doesn’t measure how fast you can kill an opponent—that’s where DPS comes in. The OSRS DPS Calculator makes it easy to find your most effective combat setup.
What DPS Output Measures
DPS is a practical calculation of how much damage you deal over time. It depends on:
- Hit chance (accuracy vs opponent’s defence)
- Max hit (strength, ranged, or magic bonuses)
- Attack speed (ticks per weapon cycle)
- Special attack potential
👉 You can test exact numbers with the OSRS DPS Calculator or simulate fights using the OSRS Boss DPS Calculator.
PvP Builds: Combat Level vs DPS
Pure Builds (1 Defence Pures)
- Combat Level Range: 50–90
- DPS Output: Very high due to maxed Strength or Ranged at low level
- Strengths: Surprise KOs, high efficiency per combat level
- Weaknesses: Extremely fragile, low survivability
Zerker Builds (45 Defence)
- Combat Level Range: 90–110
- DPS Output: High, with access to Piety and strong KO setups
- Strengths: Good balance of DPS and defence, versatile in PvP
- Weaknesses: Not as tanky as mains, not as explosive as pures
Maxed Mains
- Combat Level Range: 120–126
- DPS Output: Balanced, consistent
- Strengths: High defence, access to endgame gear
- Weaknesses: Lower DPS per combat level compared to pures
Tank Builds
- Combat Level Range: 100–115
- DPS Output: Lower than pures or zerkers
- Strengths: High defence and time-to-survive (TTS), strong in multi-combat
- Weaknesses: Struggles to finish kills without coordinated setups
DPS vs Survivability: Time-to-Kill vs Time-to-Survive
Two key metrics decide PvP outcomes:
- Time-to-Kill (TTK): How fast you can defeat an opponent.
- Time-to-Survive (TTS): How long you last under pressure.
Example:
- A pure build might kill in 3 seconds (TTK) but only survive 2–3 hits (TTS).
- A tank build may take 6 seconds to secure a kill, but can survive 10+ hits.
The best PvP builds balance both.
Comparison Table
| Build Type | Combat Level Range | DPS Output | TTK | TTS | Best Scenario |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pure | 50–90 | Very High | 3–4s | Very Low | Quick PKs, low risk fights |
| Zerker | 90–110 | High | 4–5s | Medium | Versatile PvP, clan wars |
| Maxed Main | 120–126 | Balanced | 5–6s | High | Endgame duels, tournaments |
| Tank | 100–115 | Lower | 6–7s | Very High | Multi-combat, defensive fights |
Choosing the Best PvP Build
When deciding between combat level and DPS, ask yourself:
- Do I want fast kills or long survivability?
- Will I fight mostly in single or multi-combat zones?
- Am I willing to risk expensive gear for higher DPS?
- Do I prefer burst damage or consistent pressure?
👉 Use the Combat Level Calculator to find your exact combat bracket, then test setups with DPS tools to see which build fits your style.
FAQs
1. Does higher combat level mean higher DPS?
No. Pures often have higher DPS per combat level than maxed mains.
2. What PvP build has the best balance of DPS and defence?
Zerkers offer one of the most efficient trade-offs.
3. Can a tank build win against a pure?
Yes, if the fight lasts long enough, tanks outlast bursty builds.
4. How do I measure PvP effectiveness beyond combat level?
Look at DPS output, Time-to-Kill (TTK), and Time-to-Survive (TTS).
5. What’s the best build for beginners in PvP?
A ranged or strength pure is easiest to start with for fast DPS
Edwards is the creator of OSRSDPSCalc.online, a specialized calculator site designed to help Old School RuneScape players optimize their damage output and gear setups. With a focus on accuracy and ease of use, Edwards provides reliable tools and insights that save players time and enhance gameplay. His dedication to the OSRS community ensures each feature is built with precision, helping users make smarter in-game decisions.