The bombs dropped. The dust settled. And now, you’re out in the wasteland trying not to get your head blown off by a Super Mutant. Fallout 4 throws you into a world that doesn’t care if you’re ready or not. So let’s get real — you’re going to need the best perks in Fallout 4 if you want to survive and thrive.
This guide covers the Fallout 4 best perks, including best early perks, starting perks, and the best companion perks. Whether you’re new or rolling another build, we’ve got everything you need right here.
Best Starting Perks in Fallout 4
Starting strong is half the battle. These perks give you a serious edge before things get messy.
1. Idiot Savant
You don’t need to be smart to get ahead. This perk gives bonus XP at random. The lower your Intelligence, the more likely it kicks in. It’s hilarious. It’s powerful. And it turns a “dumb” build into a leveling machine.
2. Rifleman
Rifles are everywhere and they hit hard. Rifleman boosts non-automatic rifle damage and adds armor penetration. This is perfect if you like staying at mid-range and knocking heads off before they get too close.
3. Medic
Stimpaks heal more. RadAway works better. You’ll use both constantly. This perk keeps you alive and lets you use fewer items. It’s simple but essential.
4. Locksmith + Hacker
Open locked doors and crack computers. These perks open up loot, secrets, and paths you’d miss otherwise. If you don’t have a companion who can do it, take these early.
5. Toughness
Every rank gives you more damage resistance. If you’re running light armor or just want to take more hits before dropping, this one’s a lifesaver.
Best Early Perks Fallout 4 Players Should Grab Fast
When you’re just getting started, certain perks give you huge value without high-level investment.
6. Action Boy / Action Girl
More action points means more sprinting and more V.A.T.S. time. Rank it up and you’ll regenerate faster. If you use V.A.T.S. at all, this is a must.
7. Lead Belly
Radiation from food and water? Gone. Lead Belly lets you eat everything without worrying about losing max health. This opens up more healing options early on.
8. Scrounger
Find more ammo in every container. This becomes even more useful on harder difficulties. Rank four lets you reload a free mag when your clip empties.
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Fallout 4 Best Perks for Combat
Want to crush enemies faster? These perks turn you into a one-man army.
9. Bloody Mess
It’s not just for show. Enemies explode. You get bonus damage across all weapons. It stacks with everything and fits any build.
10. Critical Banker
You can store critical hits and use them whenever you want. Combine it with Four Leaf Clover and Mysterious Stranger for critical mayhem.
11. Sneak
Move quietly. Avoid traps. Set up ambushes. Pair it with high Agility and Stealth Boys and become a ghost in the Wasteland.
12. Gun Nut / Science! / Blacksmith
These three perks give you access to weapon mods. Whether you love guns, energy weapons, or melee — pick the one that matches your playstyle and upgrade your gear.
Fallout 4 Best Companion Perks
Bringing a buddy? Great. Some companions offer amazing bonuses.
13. Lone Wanderer
Sounds backwards, but this perk only activates without a companion. You get bonus damage resistance, carry weight, and damage. If you like traveling alone, this perk is insane.
14. Companion Perks (Based on Who You Travel With)
Here are the best Fallout 4 companion perks:
- Cait: More effective chems and no addiction
- Nick Valentine: Better terminal hacking
- Piper: More XP for speech challenges
- Danse: +20% damage with energy weapons
- Curie: +10 HP/sec when health drops below 10%
If you’re roleplaying or planning to romance a character, pick one whose perk suits your build.
Fallout 4 Best Perks for Survival and Exploration
The Wasteland is dangerous. These perks help you stay alive longer and do more.
15. Aquaboy / Aquagirl
You can breathe underwater and take no radiation damage in water. Later ranks let you stay hidden while submerged. Great for explorers.
16. Strong Back
Carry more. Simple as that. Each rank gives you extra weight limit. Eventually, you can run and even fast travel while encumbered.
17. Awareness
Use V.A.T.S. to learn enemy resistances and levels. At later ranks, you even gain a damage and accuracy bonus. Useful for new areas and tougher fights.
18. Chem Resistant
Chems like Jet and Buffout are powerful. This perk helps you avoid addiction and spam them freely during hard battles.
Best Fallout 4 Perks to Build Into
Looking ahead? These perks are perfect for long-term builds.
19. Wasteland Whisperer
Control creatures. Use Deathclaws as pets. It’s weird and awesome. Great for distraction or roleplay.
20. Cap Collector
More caps from selling. Better prices when buying. Rank three lets you invest in shops. If you trade or run settlements, this is gold.
21. Armorer
Unlock better armor mods. Higher ranks unlock top-tier upgrades for Power Armor too. If you want to stay protected and customize your look, grab this.
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Final Thoughts on the Best Perks in Fallout 4
Fallout 4 gives you full freedom to create your own hero. You can be a dumb brute, a sneaky sniper, or a charming speech master — and these perks help you shape your story. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Try different builds. Mix and match until you find what fits your playstyle.
If you’re wondering which are the best perks in Fallout 4, the answer depends on how you want to survive. This guide is here to help you start strong, stay strong, and enjoy the Wasteland your way.
