SMGs (submachine guns) are compact automatic weapons designed to combine affordability, high fire rate, and mobility.
In CS2, SMGs play a vital role in specific rounds when you need to keep your economy strong while staying effective in close-range fights.
SMGs meaning in Counter-Strike is simple: they are the main weapons used to punish eco buys and farm extra cash rewards to build an advantage for future rounds.
Fun fact: SMG kills in CS2 award a bonus kill reward of up to $900, compared to $300 for a rifle kill. This makes them one of the best tools for snowballing your economy early in the match.
Pro tip: If you expect opponents to have pistols with no armor, buy SMGs to maximize profit without risking a full rifle buy.
The SMGs list in CS2 includes six main weapons, each with a unique feel and role:
MAC-10: The cheapest T-side SMG, known for its blazing fire rate and high kill reward. Perfect for rushing and farming cash.
MP9: The fastest-firing CT SMG with tight spread when crouched. Great for close-range holds and aggressive pushes.
UMP-45: The most affordable SMG, featuring solid damage per bullet and easy control.
MP7: A reliable all-purpose SMG with balanced stats and low recoil, effective at medium range.
P90: Famous for its massive magazine, low recoil, and the ability to spray accurately while moving.
PP-Bizon: An entry-level SMG with the largest magazine (64 rounds), but the lowest damage output.
Tip: The MAC-10 and MP9 are statistically the most efficient SMGs in CS2 if you want to combine low cost, high kill bonus, and mobility.
The best SMG CS2 depends on your side and preferred playstyle:
MAC-10 is the best submachine gun CS2 for Terrorists because it’s cheap, fast, and punishes unarmored enemies.
MP9 is the top choice for Counter-Terrorists thanks to its high fire rate, cheap price, and extremely accurate first bullets.
UMP-45 is the most versatile SMG, combining affordability with solid stopping power at close and medium ranges.
P90 is situational but perfect for fast-paced flanks and surprise attacks.
Fun fact: In pro matches, SMGs are frequently purchased after a won pistol round because their high kill reward can fund an entire team’s rifles and utility by round 3.
Pro tip: If you want to improve your close-quarters aim, spend time practicing MP9 and MAC-10 recoil control on community aim maps.
SMGs in CS2 serve multiple strategic purposes that go beyond simply saving money:
Anti-eco dominance: They shred opponents who have no armor or limited firepower.
Fast map control: SMGs let you run at near-knife speed, taking aggressive positions before the enemy is ready.
Economic snowballing: Every kill with an SMG earns extra money, which helps secure a strong buy in future rounds.
Surprise plays: With proper utility, SMGs can win rounds even against rifles by catching opponents off guard.
Tip: Always pair SMGs with flashbangs or smoke grenades to create chaos and deny the enemy clear angles.
Fun fact: The MP9 has the fastest equip and reload time of all SMGs, making it the best option for quick repositioning between fights.
Since the earliest Counter-Strike versions, SMGs have been a staple for aggressive players and supportive roles.
Their combination of:
High movement speed,
Quick aim-down-sights transitions,
And forgiving spray patterns,
makes them perfect for controlling early rounds and building economic momentum.
CS SMGs are also great training tools for new players, as they teach movement, positioning, and how to combine utility with gunfights.
CS2 SMG skins offer a massive range of designs – from bright, futuristic patterns to sleek, minimalist finishes.
Unlike knife or rifle skins, SMGs are more affordable, making them perfect for building a collection without spending thousands.
Some of the most popular SMG skins include:
MP9 | Hot Rod – a vibrant metallic red finish.
MAC-10 | Neon Rider – one of the most iconic neon themes.
UMP-45 | Primal Saber – a colorful design with a beast motif.
MP7 | Bloodsport – clean, sporty, and eye-catching.
P90 | Emerald Dragon – a premium skin that stands out instantly.
Pro tip: SMG skins often look amazing paired with matching gloves or stickers – small details can make your entire inventory look professional.
Fun fact: The MAC-10 Neon Rider is frequently used by streamers and content creators because of its bright color and visibility on camera.
SMG CS2 skins are an underappreciated opportunity for traders and collectors.
They offer:
Lower entry costs, which means you can acquire rare patterns without risking huge sums.
Consistent demand, because SMGs are always used in certain rounds.
Growth potential, especially for discontinued collections or limited-release finishes.
Tip: Track price trends after major updates or new cases – some SMG skins spike in value when new operation drops make older skins rarer.
The safest way to buy submachine gun CS:GO / CS2 skins is by using trusted marketplaces like FlashSkins.
On FlashSkins you can:
View float and pattern details before purchasing.
Filter listings by price, condition, and popularity.
Use secure Steam API integration, guaranteeing the skin goes directly into your inventory.
Check historical charts to see if the price is trending up or down.
Pro tip: If you want the cleanest look, focus on Factory New or Minimal Wear – these skins tend to hold their value better over time.
The best SMGs CS2 are not only useful for farming cash – they teach you skills that transfer to rifles:
Mastering recoil control.
Learning how to peek and strafe effectively.
Using sound cues and movement to win close-range engagements.
Tip: Even in high-level play, SMGs remain effective tools for specialists who understand positioning and timing.
Fun fact: The P90 is still affectionately known as the “Noob Cannon” among old-school players – but in the right hands, it can dominate eco rounds and surprise full buys.