When players in Old School RuneScape talk about damage, the first number that comes up is usually max hit. But max hit alone doesn’t tell you how effective a weapon really is. A weapon that can land huge hits every six ticks might actually be weaker over time than a faster weapon with lower max damage. That’s why serious players also look at attack speed and DPS (damage per second).
By combining calculators for max hit, attack speed, and DPS, you get the most accurate view of your true combat performance. This guide breaks down how each metric works, why they matter together, and how you can use them to make smarter choices for Slayer, PvP, and boss fights.
Why One Calculator Isn’t Enough
Most players check their max hit and assume that’s the whole story. But in Old School RuneScape, real damage output depends on more than a single number. Attack speed (measured in ticks) and DPS (damage per second) together show how effective your setup really is.
By combining calculators, you move from knowing “how hard can I hit?” to “how much damage do I actually deal over time?” Whether you’re training melee or ranged, the OSRS DPS Calculator can help you pick the best setup.
Max Hit: Your Starting Point
The max hit calculator shows the highest damage you can land in one attack. It factors in your Strength level, gear bonuses, potions, and prayers.
- Example: With 99 Strength, Super Strength potion, and Piety active, a whip might give a max hit of 36.
👉 If you want a more complete view, try running numbers through the OSRS weapon damage calculator to see both max hit and accuracy together.
Attack Speed and Ticks
Every OSRS weapon has an attack speed defined in ticks (1 tick = 0.6 seconds).
- Whip = 4 ticks (2.4 seconds).
- Godsword = 6 ticks (3.6 seconds).
- Blowpipe = 3 ticks (1.8 seconds).
A slower weapon with higher max hit might lose to a faster one with slightly lower hits when measured in DPS. That’s why you need an attack speed calculator to turn tick counts into real attack intervals.
DPS: The Real Measure of Damage
DPS combines three things:
- Average hit (roughly half of max hit × accuracy).
- Hit chance (based on attack roll vs enemy defence).
- Attack speed (how often you strike).
👉 Build testing for POE2 becomes simpler using the POE2 DPS Calc online tool.
Example: Whip vs Tentacle
Let’s compare:
| Weapon | Max Hit | Attack Speed | Hit Chance | DPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whip + Piety | 36 | 4 ticks | 72% | 10.2 |
| Tentacle | 38 | 4 ticks | 74% | 11.0 |
Putting It All Together
Here’s how to combine the tools step by step:
- Use the max hit calculator to get your single-hit number.
- Run the attack speed calculator to find how fast your weapon cycles.
- Plug both into the DPS calculator to see your actual sustained damage.
👉 For bossing, you can also experiment with the OSRS boss DPS calculator to see how accuracy and speed matter against high-defence enemies. To improve your performance in Realm of the Mad God, use the ROTMG DPS Calculator for accurate results.
FAQs
Why isn’t max hit enough?
Because it ignores accuracy and speed. A weapon hitting 40 every 6 ticks may do less damage than one hitting 30 every 4 ticks.
What’s a tick in OSRS?
One tick = 0.6 seconds. Most weapons range from 3–6 ticks.
Can I use this for PvP?
Yes, but account for overhead prayers, food, and special attack timing.
Does overhit affect DPS?
Yes—if you consistently overkill low-HP monsters, your “true” DPS will be lower than calculator values.
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.