Palworld Ground Mount Tier List (March 2026) 30+ Best Mounts
Looking for the fastest way to traverse Palworld’s massive open world? I’ve spent countless hours testing every single ground mount in the game, and I’m here to share the definitive tier list that’ll transform your exploration experience! While flying mounts might seem superior, ground mounts offer unique advantages including unlimited stamina, cave accessibility, and specialized abilities that make them indispensable for serious tamers.
Ground mounts in Palworld are categorized into five tiers based on their sprint speed, special abilities, and overall utility. The fastest ground mount is Necromus with a blazing 1600 sprint speed, followed by Dazemu with conditional speeds up to 4200 on sand, and Paladius at 1400 with triple jump capability. Mid-tier options like Direhowl and Pyrin offer excellent early-game value, while lower-tier mounts like Melpaca serve as stepping stones in your mounting journey.
Ground Mount Ranking Factors for Palworld
Before diving into the rankings, here are the key factors I considered when evaluating each ground mount:
- Sprint Speed: Raw speed numbers and how they translate to actual gameplay
- Special Abilities: Double/triple jumps, terrain bonuses, combat enhancements
- Accessibility: When you can obtain the mount during progression
- Partner Skills: Unique benefits while mounted
- Upgrade Potential: How much faster they get with Pal Essence Condenser
- Passive Skill Compatibility: How well they benefit from speed-enhancing passives
Palworld Ground Mount Tier List (S-Tier)
| Mount Name | Tier | Sprint Speed | Special Abilities | Level Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Necromus | S | 1600 | Double Jump, Dark damage | Level 49 |
| Dazemu | S | 1200-4200* | Speed boost on sand/dirt | Level 22 |
| Paladius | S | 1400 | Triple Jump, Neutral damage | Level 49 |
*Speed varies based on terrain and passive skills
Palworld Ground Mount Tier List (A-Tier)
| Mount Name | Tier | Sprint Speed | Special Abilities | Level Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pyrin/Pyrin Noct | A | 1300 | Fire/Dark damage boost | Level 30 |
| Direhowl | A | 1050+ | Speed boost skill, early access | Level 9 |
| Rayhound | A | 1380* | Double Jump, Electric damage | Level 26 |
| Azurmane | A | Variable | Dash ability, stamina recovery | Level 35 |
*When fully upgraded with Pal Essence Condenser
Palworld Ground Mount Tier List (B-Tier)
| Mount Name | Tier | Sprint Speed | Special Abilities | Level Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fenglope | B | 900 | Cloud Tempest burst speed | Level 18 |
| Univolt | B | 1100 | Electric damage boost | Level 14 |
| Starryon | B | Variable | Night speed boost | Level 28 |
| Frostallion | B | 1500 | Ice damage, temperature control | Level 48 |
| Kitsun | B | 850 | Temperature regulation (hot/cold) | Level 23 |
| Blazamut | B | 800 | Fire damage boost | Level 38 |
| Arsox | B | 850 | Double jump, heat resistance | Level 21 |
| Eikthyrdeer | B | 900 | Double jump, lumbering boost | Level 18 |
Palworld Ground Mount Tier List (C-Tier)
| Mount Name | Tier | Sprint Speed | Special Abilities | Level Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grintale | C | 800 | Cold resistance | Level 17 |
| Chillet | C | 800 | Dragon damage boost | Level 16 |
| Reindrix | C | 750 | Cold resistance | Level 12 |
| Dinossom | C | 700 | Lumbering efficiency | Level 15 |
| Mossanda | C | 650 | Grenade launcher | Level 25 |
| Surfent Terra | C | 700 | Ground damage boost | Level 30 |
| Kingpaca | C | 650 | Increased carrying capacity | Level 23 |
Palworld Ground Mount Tier List (D-Tier)
| Mount Name | Tier | Sprint Speed | Special Abilities | Level Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Melpaca | D | 550 | Wool production | Level 7 |
| Rushoar | D | 500 | Mining efficiency | Level 6 |
| Mammorest | D | 450 | Increased carrying capacity | Level 18 |
Detailed Analysis of Every Ground Mount in Palworld
Necromus – The Dark Lord of Speed
Necromus reigns supreme as Palworld’s fastest ground mount with an unmatched sprint speed of 1600. This legendary Dark-type Pal combines raw speed with practical utility through its double jump ability, making it perfect for navigating complex terrain. Found in the northeastern Dessicated Desert alongside Paladius, Necromus requires defeating a challenging level 49 boss battle. The mount’s Dark Whisp of Chaos skill increases mount speed while applying dark damage to your attacks, creating a devastating combination for both exploration and combat. When bred with optimal passive skills like Swift (+30% speed) and Runner (+20% speed), Necromus becomes virtually unstoppable.
Dazemu – The Desert Speedster
Dazemu earns its S-tier placement through its unique Sand Dasher ability that doubles its speed on sand and dirt paths. What makes this mount exceptional is the game’s generous definition of “sand” – most dirt roads and paths count, providing consistent speed boosts across the map. With a base speed of 1200 that can reach 4200 with proper passives and terrain, Dazemu potentially outpaces even Necromus. Available at level 22 in the Dessicated Desert, it’s significantly more accessible than legendary alternatives. The mount’s floaty movement style takes adjustment, but mastering Dazemu rewards you with unparalleled overland speed.
Paladius – The Holy Triple Jumper
Paladius stands out with its unique triple jump ability, offering vertical mobility unmatched by any other ground mount. With a sprint speed of 1400, it’s only slightly slower than Necromus but compensates with superior maneuverability. The Holy Knight of the Firmament skill provides the triple jump while boosting mount speed and applying neutral damage. Found alongside Necromus in the Dessicated Desert, Paladius requires the same challenging boss fight but offers a different playstyle focused on agility over raw speed. The triple jump proves invaluable for scaling cliffs, reaching elevated areas, and maintaining momentum across challenging landscapes.
Pyrin & Pyrin Noct – The Elemental Speedsters
The Pyrin variants represent excellent mid-game mounting options with their solid 1300 sprint speed. Pyrin applies fire damage while Pyrin Noct offers dark damage, letting you choose based on combat preferences. Available at level 30, they bridge the gap between early-game accessibility and late-game performance. Both variants spawn around Mount Obsidian, with Pyrin Noct exclusively appearing at night. Their Red Hare and Dark Knight of the Abyss skills respectively boost speed while adding elemental damage. When upgraded with the Pal Essence Condenser, these mounts can compete with higher-tier options while remaining more accessible than legendaries.
Direhowl – The Starter Champion
Despite its modest base sprint speed of 1050, Direhowl earns A-tier status through exceptional early-game value and surprising late-game viability. Available at level 9, it’s often players’ first proper mount and can remain useful throughout the entire game when properly upgraded. The Direhowl Rider skill increases movement speed, with the bonus scaling based on partner skill level. Its compact size allows access to caves and dungeons where larger mounts struggle. Found across multiple regions including Windswept Hills and Bamboo Groves, Direhowl is easy to obtain and condense for star upgrades.
Rayhound – The Electric Jumper
Rayhound combines decent speed with valuable mobility through its double-jump ability. Starting with a base speed that reaches 1380 when fully condensed, it serves as an excellent stepping stone between early and legendary mounts. The Jumping Force skill provides the double jump while applying electric damage, making it particularly effective against water-type enemies. Available at level 26 in the southern Dessicated Desert, Rayhound requires preparation for extreme temperatures but rewards the effort with reliable performance that scales well into late game.
Azurmane – The Thunder Dash Master
Introduced in the Feybreak update, Azurmane revolutionized ground mount gameplay with its unique dash mechanic. The Envoy of the Thunder God skill provides a powerful forward dash that damages enemies, covers significant ground, and recovers stamina mid-travel. This combination enables extended exploration without the typical mount limitations. While base speed varies, optimal passive skills like Swift and Eternal Engine can push Azurmane into top-tier territory. Found north of the Oculus Gate Tower or through specific breeding combinations, this Electric-type mount excels at both transportation and combat.
Fenglope – The Burst Speed Specialist
Fenglope’s Cloud Tempest ability offers explosive forward momentum that can temporarily surpass S-tier mounts. This Wind Neutral-type mount trades consistent speed for powerful burst movement, making it excellent for specific traversal situations. The ability becomes less effective in confined spaces, limiting overall utility. Available at level 18 in various locations, Fenglope serves as an accessible option for players seeking something beyond basic transportation. Its double jump capability adds vertical mobility, while the unique burst mechanic rewards skilled timing and positioning.
Univolt – The Early Electric Option
Univolt stands out as an excellent early-to-mid game mount with its Swift Deity skill boosting speed while adding electric damage. With a sprint speed of 1100 and availability at level 14, it offers significant upgrades over starter mounts without requiring extensive progression. Found throughout the Sea Breeze Archipelago and purchasable from merchants, Univolt is highly accessible. The electric damage bonus proves particularly effective against water-types, adding combat utility to its transportation role. While eventually outclassed by higher-tier options, Univolt remains a reliable workhorse for most players’ journeys.
Starryon – The Nocturnal Speedster
Starryon offers a unique nighttime speed boost through its Dark Horse ability, making it ideal for players who prefer nocturnal exploration. This situational advantage can make Starryon competitive with higher-tier mounts during night hours. Introduced with Feybreak Island, it spawns in the Frozen Forest’s lake area exclusively at night. The mount’s specialized nature means it’s best suited for players who can align their playtime with its peak performance window. During daylight, Starryon performs adequately but doesn’t justify its B-tier placement without the night bonus.
Frostallion & Frostallion Noct – The Legendary Alternatives
Despite being classified as flying mounts, both Frostallion variants function excellently as ground mounts with their impressive 1500 sprint speed. Frostallion offers ice damage and cooling effects, while Frostallion Noct provides dark damage. These legendary Pals require challenging level 48 encounters but reward success with versatile mounts that excel on land and in air. Found in the Land of Absolute Zero, obtaining either variant demands preparation for extreme cold and difficult combat. Their dual-nature as flying/ground mounts makes them valuable for players seeking flexibility.
Kitsun – The Temperature Master
Kitsun’s unique ability to regulate both hot and cold temperatures makes it invaluable for exploring extreme biomes. While its 850 sprint speed won’t win races, the Clear Mind skill’s temperature control eliminates the need for specialized gear in many situations. This fire/neutral type mount becomes available at level 23, offering mid-game accessibility. Found in various locations, Kitsun serves specialized exploration needs rather than general transportation. Players venturing into volcanic or frozen regions will find Kitsun’s utility outweighs its modest speed.
Blazamut & Blazamut Ryu – The Combat Mounts
The Blazamut variants prioritize combat effectiveness over pure speed, with their skills boosting fire damage significantly. Blazamut Ryu offers enhanced stats justifying its placement despite moderate speed. These mounts excel in farming situations where mounted combat is necessary. Available at higher levels, they represent late-game options for players prioritizing damage over mobility. Their large size can create navigation challenges in tight spaces, further cementing their specialized role.
Arsox – The Balanced Runner
Arsox provides a well-rounded package with its 850 sprint speed, double jump capability, and heat resistance through the Warm Body skill. Available at level 21, it serves as a practical upgrade for mid-game players. The fire-type damage application adds combat utility, while tree-cutting efficiency provides resource-gathering benefits. Found in warmer biomes, Arsox represents a jack-of-all-trades approach to mounting, excelling at nothing but failing at nothing either.
Eikthyrdeer – The Lumberjack’s Friend
Eikthyrdeer combines decent 900 sprint speed with the Guardian of the Forest skill’s double jump and enhanced tree-cutting efficiency. This makes it ideal for players focused on lumber gathering while exploring. Available at level 18, it provides accessible mid-game mounting with practical benefits. The double jump aids in navigation while the lumbering bonus streamlines resource collection. Both standard and Terra variants offer similar performance with slight elemental differences.
Grintale – The Cool Runner
Grintale offers basic transportation with added cold resistance through its White Stag skill. With 800 sprint speed and level 17 availability, it serves as a serviceable early-game mount for cold region exploration. Boss variants found in central Palpagos provide easier access to higher-tier Grintale for condensing. While outclassed in pure speed, the cold resistance provides niche utility for unprepared players venturing into frozen areas.
Chillet – The Dragon Dasher
Chillet brings dragon-type damage to mounted combat while providing basic 800 speed transportation. The Wriggling Weasel skill combines movement with combat enhancement, creating a mount suitable for aggressive exploration. Available at level 16, with an Ignis variant offering fire damage instead. Found in northern central Palpagos, Chillet serves players seeking combat-oriented mounting in the early-to-mid game.
Reindrix – The Festive Mount
Reindrix provides basic cold resistance with its Cool Body skill while offering modest 750 sprint speed. This reindeer-inspired mount fits thematically with winter exploration but lacks the performance to compete with higher-tier options. Level 12 availability makes it one of the earlier cold-resistant mounts, providing value for unprepared players entering frozen biomes. Multiple spawn locations across cooler regions ensure easy access for collection or condensing.
Dinossom – The Verdant Runner
Dinossom and its Lux variant offer basic transportation with enhanced lumbering efficiency. At 700 sprint speed, they won’t break records but provide utility for resource-focused players. The Fragrant Dragon skill’s tree-cutting bonus makes these mounts valuable during base-building phases. Available at level 15 across central Palpagos, Dinossom serves as a transitional mount with specific utility rather than general excellence.
Mossanda – The Heavy Gunner
Mossanda’s unique Grenadier Panda skill allows rapid grenade launcher fire while mounted, prioritizing combat over speed. With only 650 sprint speed, it ranks low for transportation but high for mounted warfare. The Lux variant offers similar performance with electric typing. These mounts suit players who prefer fighting from mountback rather than dismounting for combat. Large size creates navigation challenges, further cementing their specialized combat role.
Surfent Terra – The Grounded Surfer
Surfent Terra brings ground-type benefits to land travel with its 700 sprint speed and damage bonuses. While its water-type cousins excel in aquatic environments, this variant adapts surfing to land. The Sand Swimmer skill provides movement and combat benefits, though neither excels compared to specialized alternatives. Late-game availability at level 30 means most players will have superior options by the time they encounter Surfent Terra.
Kingpaca – The Pack Leader
Kingpaca and Kingpaca Cryst offer increased carrying capacity through their King of Muscles skill, prioritizing utility over speed. With 650 sprint speed, they serve resource gatherers and hoarders rather than speed demons. The extra carrying capacity proves valuable during extended gathering expeditions or when transporting materials between bases. Available at level 23, these mounts fill a specific niche for players struggling with inventory management.
Melpaca – The Woolly Wanderer
Melpaca represents many players’ first mounting experience with its level 7 availability and abundant spawns throughout central Palpagos. Its 550 sprint speed feels sluggish compared to walking, but any mount beats none in early game. The Pacapaca Wool skill provides wool production while mounted, adding minor resource generation. Melpaca serves as a stepping stone, teaching mounting mechanics before players acquire proper transportation.
Rushoar – The Mining Mount
Rushoar claims the distinction of being most players’ very first mount, unlocked at level 6. Its Hard Head skill increases mining efficiency while mounted, providing early-game utility. However, 500 sprint speed barely improves on walking, making Rushoar more valuable for its mining bonus than transportation. Abundant spawns ensure easy access, but players should upgrade to faster options as soon as possible.
Mammorest – The Gentle Giant
The Mammorest variants represent the extreme end of size-versus-speed trade-offs in Palworld. With a glacial 450 sprint speed, they move slower than some players can run. The Gaia Crusher skill increases carrying capacity significantly, but their massive size creates constant navigation problems. These mounts function better as mobile storage units or combat tanks rather than practical transportation. Their imposing appearance attracts new players, but the sluggish reality quickly encourages seeking alternatives.
Additional Ground Mount Tips
To maximize your ground mount effectiveness, consider these strategies I’ve discovered:
- Breeding for Speed: Combine mounts with Swift (+30% speed), Runner (+20% speed), Nimble (+10% speed), and Rider (+75 max stamina) passives. These stack multiplicatively, creating blazing-fast variants of even mid-tier mounts.
- Condensing Priority: Focus Pal Essence Condenser upgrades on mounts you’ll use long-term. Direhowl and Dazemu offer excellent returns on investment due to their skill scaling.
- Terrain Mastery: Learn which surfaces count as “sand” for Dazemu or “grass” for Palumba. Many paths provide unexpected speed bonuses.
- Mount Swapping: Keep multiple mounts for different situations – Necromus for speed, Paladius for vertical exploration, Kitsun for temperature extremes.
- Early Game Progression: Rush to Direhowl at level 9, upgrade to Fenglope or Univolt in mid-game, then push for Dazemu before attempting legendary mounts.
For more Palworld guides, check out:
- How to Get All 54 Tides of Terraria Pals in Palworld
- How to Fish in Palworld – Rods, Bait & Tips
- Palworld: How to Recruit Zoe & Grizzbolt Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the absolute fastest ground mount in Palworld?
Technically, Dazemu can reach the highest speeds (up to 4200) when on sand/dirt paths with optimal passive skills. However, Necromus at 1600 sprint speed is the fastest consistent ground mount regardless of terrain. For practical purposes, most players consider Necromus the overall fastest due to its reliability across all surfaces.
Which ground mount should I get first as a beginner?
Rushoar is your first available mount at level 6, but upgrade to Direhowl as soon as you reach level 9. Direhowl offers excellent speed for an early-game mount and remains viable throughout your entire playthrough when upgraded. It’s found easily in multiple starting areas and provides the best early-game mounting experience.
Are ground mounts better than flying mounts?
Ground mounts offer unlimited stamina and access to caves/dungeons where flying mounts can’t enter. Flying mounts provide faster point-to-point travel but consume stamina and must land periodically. The best strategy is maintaining both types – ground mounts for exploration and resource gathering, flying mounts for long-distance travel.
How do passive skills affect mount speed?
Passive skills multiply your mount’s base speed. Swift (+30%), Runner (+20%), Legend (+20% to all stats), and Nimble (+10%) stack multiplicatively. A mount with all speed passives can achieve roughly 1.75x its base speed. For example, Necromus with perfect passives reaches approximately 2,800 sprint speed.
Can I capture Necromus and Paladius early in the game?
While technically possible with cheese strategies, Necromus and Paladius are level 49 bosses designed for endgame content. Attempting them early requires exploits or extreme patience. Most players should wait until level 45+ with proper gear, strong Pals, and legendary spheres for a legitimate capture.
Which ground mount has the best special ability?
Paladius’s triple jump offers unmatched vertical mobility, while Dazemu’s terrain-based speed boost provides the highest potential velocity. Azurmane’s dash ability excels for combat and stamina management. The “best” ability depends on your playstyle – exploration favors Paladius, speed running benefits from Dazemu, and combat situations suit Azurmane.
Do ground mounts work in dungeons?
Yes, smaller ground mounts like Direhowl, Fenglope, and Chillet work in most dungeons. Larger mounts like Mammorest, Necromus, and Blazamut often can’t fit through dungeon entrances. This makes compact, fast mounts valuable for dungeon exploration even if larger mounts offer better stats.