Best SMG Loadouts in Warzone Season 4 Reloaded (July 2025)

3rd July, 2025

SMGs continue to reign supreme in close-quarters combat throughout Warzone Season 4 Reloaded, with the LC10 and Ladra leading the charge as the most dominant weapons in the current meta. Whether you're clearing buildings in Verdansk or pushing aggressively in Resurgence modes, having the right SMG loadout can mean the difference between victory and an early trip to the Gulag.

I've tested every SMG extensively since the Season 4 Reloaded update dropped on July 2, 2025, and the meta has shifted dramatically. The LC10 stands tall as the best SMG in Warzone, with its well-rounded mix of damage, precision, and manageable recoil, while the Ladra offers insane close-range TTK with a blistering fire rate. In this comprehensive guide, I'll break down the top 9 SMG loadouts that will help you dominate every close-range engagement.

Table of Contents

COD Warzone: Season 4 Reloaded SMG Meta

SMG	Best Range	TTK (0-10m)	Difficulty	Overall Rating
LC10	0-35m	600ms	Easy	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ladra	0-20m	550ms	Medium	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
KSV	0-30m	580ms	Easy	⭐⭐⭐⭐
C9	0-40m	650ms	Very Easy	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Saug	0-25m	570ms	Medium	⭐⭐⭐⭐

Why SMGs Dominate in Warzone Season 4 Reloaded?

The Season 4 update included a major focus on giving Submachine Guns improved range to boost their overall viability, with developers also slightly increasing the drop rate of SMGs in Battle Royale ground loot. This deliberate shift has made SMGs more versatile than ever, allowing them to compete effectively not just in buildings but also in mid-range engagements when paired with the right attachments.

The attachment tuning in Season 4 Reloaded has particularly benefited SMGs. Attachments like the Tactical Laser have seen significant improvements, with vertical recoil improvement increased from 15% to 18% and bullet velocity improvement increased from 40% to 45%. These changes make it easier than ever to build laser-accurate SMG loadouts.

For more weapon tier lists and meta analysis, check out our comprehensive Call of Duty Warzone Gun Tier List which ranks all weapons across every category.

Best SMG Loadouts in Warzone Season 4 Reloaded

1. LC10 - The Meta King

Best LC10 Loadout:

Barrel: Long Barrel
Underbarrel: Ranger Foregrip
Magazine: Extended Mag II
Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip
Stock: Balanced Stock

The LC10 has already cemented itself as one of the top-performing SMGs, outperforming the previously dominant Kompakt 92 within the first 10 meters when it comes to combined time-to-kill. What makes the LC10 special is its versatility - it performs admirably at ranges where other SMGs start to struggle.

The Long Barrel extends your effective damage range significantly, while the Ranger Foregrip provides superior recoil control compared to other underbarrel options. I've found this build maintains excellent mobility while providing the stability needed for those crucial mid-range engagements.

Pro Tips:

Use the LC10 as a sniper support weapon - its range capabilities make it ideal
The iron sights are clean enough that you can skip an optic for better ADS speed
Pair with the HDR or Kar98k for the ultimate versatile loadout

2. Ladra - The Close-Range Destroyer

Best Ladra Loadout:

Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Long Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Magazine: Extended Mag II
Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip

The Ladra was unleashed in Warzone following the Season 3 Reloaded update, and it wasted no time in becoming a fan favorite. The SMG's blistering fire rate, coupled with insane close-range TTK, caused plenty of havoc in BR lobbies.

This weapon absolutely melts enemies within 20 meters, but it requires skill to master. The Compensator is essential here - without it, the vertical recoil becomes nearly unmanageable during sustained fire. The Vertical Foregrip further helps tame the weapon's aggressive kick.

Pro Tips:

Pre-fire around corners - the fast fire rate gives you an advantage
Avoid engagements beyond 25 meters unless necessary
Always run Extended Mag II - this gun burns through ammo incredibly fast

3. KSV - The Balanced Performer

Best KSV Loadout:

Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Magazine: Extended Mag I
Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip

The KSV offers the perfect middle ground between the LC10's versatility and the Ladra's raw power. The KSV had always been teetering on the edge of the meta since Warzone's integration with Black Ops 6. But it properly ascended to the top following some significant buffs in Season 3.

What I love about the KSV is its consistency. It won't give you the fastest TTK, but it also won't let you down when you need it most. The Reinforced Barrel provides better bullet velocity than the Long Barrel option, making it easier to track moving targets.

4. C9 - The Beginner's Best Friend

Best C9 Loadout:

Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Magazine: Extended Mag II
Grip: Commando Grip

The C9 has been lurking around as one of the best SMGs in Warzone for some time, and while it's not quite as strong as previous seasons, it's still a great option. Its main strength is its lack of weaknesses.

If you're new to Warzone or struggle with recoil control, the C9 is your weapon. The iron sights are among the cleanest in the game, and the predictable recoil pattern makes it incredibly user-friendly. The Commando Grip helps with both recoil control and ADS speed.

For players looking for more beginner-friendly options across all weapon types, our Call Of Duty Warzone SMG Tier List provides detailed rankings and explanations.

5. Saug - The Aggressive Rusher

Best Saug Loadout:

Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Long Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Magazine: Extended Mag II
Grip: Commando Grip

First introduced in the Season 1 Reloaded update, the Saug immediately drew attention due to its remarkable close-range TTK. And thanks to recent buffs, the SMG is now part of the core meta.

The Saug rewards aggressive players who aren't afraid to get in their opponent's face. Within 20 meters, this weapon is absolutely devastating. The key is movement - use the Saug's excellent mobility to strafe and slide while maintaining fire.

6. PPSh-41 - The Bullet Hose

Best PPSh-41 Loadout:

Muzzle: Suppressor
Barrel: Long Barrel
Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
Magazine: Extended Mag II
Stock: Agility Stock

The PPSh-41 brings World War 2 firepower to modern Warzone. The PPSh-41 is a classic SMG that made its return in Season 2. It's better than ever, too, offering a blistering fire rate and a highly competitive TTK.

I recommend the Suppressor over the Compensator here because it helps reduce the visual smoke when firing - a unique issue with this weapon. The Agility Stock helps maintain the run-and-gun playstyle this weapon demands.

7. Kompakt 92 - The High-Risk, High-Reward

Best Kompakt 92 Loadout:

Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Long Barrel
Underbarrel: Ranger Foregrip
Magazine: Extended Mag III
Rear Grip: Commando Grip

The Kompakt 92 is for players who live dangerously. It boasts the fastest TTK in its class up to 15 meters, which alone makes the SMG worth trying out. However, beyond that range, you'll struggle significantly.

The Extended Mag III is non-negotiable here - you'll need every bullet to compensate for the weapon's poor recoil pattern. This is a weapon for Rebirth Island and Fortune's Keep, not Verdansk.

8. PP-919 - The Supportive Sidekick

Best PP-919 Loadout:

Muzzle: Suppressor
Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
Rear Grip: Ergonomic Grip
Stock: Balanced Stock
Fire Mods: Recoil Springs

Don't sleep on the PP-919. The PP-919, also known as the Bizon, lacks the firepower to remain competitive in BO6 multiplayer, but its qualities are a better fit for Warzone's medium-range engagements.

With 64 rounds in the magazine by default, you can skip the extended mag and focus on other improvements. This makes it an excellent choice for squad modes where you might engage multiple enemies without time to reload.

9. Jackal PDW - The Fallen King

Best Jackal PDW Loadout:

Optic: Kepler Microflex
Muzzle: Compensator
Barrel: Reinforced Barrel
Underbarrel: Ranger Foregrip
Magazine: Extended Mag II

The Jackal PDW's reign at the summit of the meta seemed unstoppable until its damage range was nerfed in Season 2. While no longer top-tier, it can still compete in the right hands.

The Kepler Microflex is necessary here due to the weapon's poor iron sights. Focus on hitting upper torso and head shots to maximize the weapon's remaining potential.

Choosing the Right SMG for Your Playstyle

For Aggressive Rushers:

Primary Choice: Ladra
Alternative: Saug
Why: Fastest TTK up close, high mobility

For Versatile Players:

Primary Choice: LC10
Alternative: KSV
Why: Excellent at multiple ranges, reliable damage

For New Players:

Primary Choice: C9
Alternative: PP-919
Why: Easy recoil control, forgiving fire rate

For Sniper Support:

Primary Choice: LC10
Alternative: C9
Why: Better range capabilities, good ADS speed

Best Perks and Equipment for SMG Loadouts

Recommended Perk Package:

Perk 1: Double Time (for aggressive rushing)
Perk 2: Overkill (pair with a long-range weapon)
Perk 3: Amped (faster weapon swapping)
Perk 4: Battle Hardened (counter to stuns/flashes)

Lethal: Semtex or Throwing Knife Tactical: Stun Grenades or Smoke Grenades

Pro Movement Tips for SMG Players

Slide Canceling: Essential for closing gaps quickly
Jump Shotting: Use when turning corners
Drop Shotting: Effective with SMGs due to good hip-fire
Tactical Sprint Management: Save it for crucial pushes
Camera Breaking: Use fast SMG movement to break enemy aim assist

Common SMG Mistakes to Avoid

Challenging at Long Range: Know your weapon's limits
Poor Ammo Management: SMGs burn through ammo quickly
Static Positioning: SMGs require constant movement
Ignoring Attachments: Every attachment matters for SMGs
Not Pre-Firing: Use that fire rate advantage

Platform-Specific Considerations

PC Players:

Can handle higher recoil weapons (Ladra, PPSh-41)
Benefit from precise aim for headshots
Should maximize movement potential

Console Players:

May prefer lower recoil options (C9, LC10)
Aim assist helps with tracking
Focus on positioning over flick shots

Future Meta Predictions

With Season 5 on the horizon, I expect continued SMG buffs to maintain their viability. The developers' focus on close-range combat diversity suggests we might see:

Further attachment tuning benefiting SMGs
Possible new SMG additions
Range adjustments to compete with ARs

FAQs

What is the best SMG in Warzone Season 4 Reloaded?

The LC10 is currently the best overall SMG due to its versatility, manageable recoil, and competitive TTK across multiple ranges. However, the Ladra dominates in pure close-range fights.

Should I use a suppressor on my SMG?

It depends on your playstyle. Suppressors keep you off the radar but reduce ADS speed. For aggressive rushing, the Compensator is often better for recoil control.

What's the best SMG for beginners?

The C9 is the most beginner-friendly SMG with predictable recoil and good iron sights. It won't give you the fastest TTK but offers consistency.

Can SMGs compete at medium range in Season 4?

Yes, especially the LC10 and C9 with proper attachments. The Season 4 range buffs have made SMGs more viable at 30-40 meter engagements.

Which SMG has the fastest TTK?

The Ladra currently has the fastest close-range TTK at approximately 550ms within 10 meters, followed closely by the Saug.

How do I unlock the LC10 in Season 4?

The LC10 is unlocked on the third page of the Season 4 Battle Pass, which means it can be unlocked within 1-2 hours of gameplay with a double Battle Pass XP Token equipped.

Is the Jackal PDW still viable?

While nerfed, the Jackal PDW can still compete in close-range fights. It requires more skill and proper positioning compared to meta options.

What's the best secondary weapon to pair with an SMG?

The HDR sniper rifle or Kar98k marksman rifle are ideal pairings, covering long-range engagements your SMG can't handle.

Conclusion

The SMG meta in Warzone Season 4 Reloaded offers more variety than ever before. Whether you prefer the versatile LC10, the aggressive Ladra, or the reliable C9, there's an SMG that fits your playstyle. Remember, the best loadout is the one you're most comfortable with - take these builds into Plunder or Resurgence to practice before heading into ranked matches.

Master these loadouts, perfect your movement, and you'll find yourself dominating close-range engagements across Verdansk and beyond. The current meta rewards aggressive players who can capitalize on the improved SMG range capabilities while maintaining smart positioning.

What's your go-to SMG loadout in Season 4 Reloaded? Drop a comment below and let me know which weapon has been working best for you! And don't forget to check out our other Warzone guides, including our comprehensive Call Of Duty Vanguard Weapon Tier List for more weapon rankings and loadout recommendations.

Keep practicing, keep pushing, and I'll see you in Verdansk!