Verdict: XM4 is the Best Assault Rifle in Call of Duty: Warzone
When it comes to top-tier assault rifles in Call of Duty: Warzone, the choice often comes down to the ever-popular XM4 vs the tried-and-true M4A1. As a passionate gamer and content creator, I have extensively tested both weapons and can definitively say the XM4 is the best AR for Warzone based on its balanced damage profile, easily controllable recoil, excellent handling, and beginner-friendly fundamentals.
Damage Profile: XM4 Edges Out M4A1 in Time-to-Kill Potential
On paper, the M4A1 theoretically has faster TTK thanks to its slightly higher base damage per bullet of 28-23-23 versus the XM4‘s 25-23-23 damage profile. However, when factoring in damage dropoff ranges, headshot/chest damage multipliers, and fire rate (both 640 RPM), the XM4 can actually achieve a faster TTK hitting chest shots past ~35 meters.
Up close, a perfectly landed 5 shot kill against full armor plates takes about 600ms with either gun. Past 35 meters though, the XM4‘s 6 shot TTK is 767ms versus 800ms on the M4A1. So while the raw stats suggest the M4A1 kills faster, the XM4 edges it out with range.
| Weapon | Base Damage | Head | Chest | Stomach | Limbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M4A1 | 28-23-23 | 1.4x | 1.1x | 1x | 1x |
| XM4 | 25-23-23 | 1.5x | 1.1x | 1x | 1x |
So when you translate these weapons profiles in-game, the XM4 ends up killing faster especially at range which is crucial for Warzone engagements.
Recoil Control: XM4 Significantly Easier to Beam
One key area where the XM4 significantly outshines the venerable M4A1 is visual recoil and overall ease of use. The XM4‘s recoil pattern shows primarily vertical kick, meaning it‘s far easier to mitigate by simply pulling down on your mouse/thumbstick.
By comparison, the M4A1 veers off quite aggressively to the right with horizontal bounce. Even with attachments like the Field Agent Grip, the M4A1 is simply much harder to accurately beam enemies at range compared to the XM4 in my experience.
This translates in-game to the XM4 being significantly easier to consistently land shots, achieve faster TTK, and win extended range battles. The less erratic recoil provides a huge advantage for most players.
Handling & Mobility: Snappy XM4 Built for Rushers
When it comes to snappy handling and mobility attributes that benefit aggressive, rush-oriented playstyles, the XM4 once again beats out the M4A1.
Here‘s a breakdown of the key handling stats:
| Weapon | ADS Time (ms) | Sprint-out Time (ms) | Tactical Sprint Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| M4A1 | 268 | 228 | 8.5 m/s |
| XM4 | 240 | 190 | 8.5 m/s |
As you can see, the XM4 has markedly faster ADS & sprint-out speeds compared to the M4A1. This means you can snap onto targets much quicker when rushing around Fortune‘s Keep or Rebirth Island with the XM4 equipped versus the M4.
Combine this handling advantage with the XM4‘s easy to control recoil, you get an extremely beginner friendly run-and-gun weapon perfect for racking up highlight clan clips.
Attachments: Same Great Options for Both Guns
The XM4 and M4A1 share access to many of the same attachments which allow you to further enhance recoil control, damage range, ammo capacity and handling.
Here‘s a look at the must-have attachments for Warzone loadouts on both guns:
| Attachment | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Agency Suppressor | Sound suppression + Vertical recoil control + Effective damage range |
| Task Force Barrel | Effective damage range + Bullet velocity |
| Field Agent Grip | Vertical & horizontal recoil control |
| Salvo 60 Round Fast Mag | Faster reloads + Added ammo capacity |
| Axial Arms 3x Scope | Clear optics for ranged battles |
As you can see, the XM4 and M4A1 both benefit tremendously from these meta attachments. The only difference is that the Field Agent Grip is even more necessary on the M4A1 to try mitigating its intense horizontal recoil.
Ease of Use: XM4 More Beginner Friendly
When evaluating the skill floor and ceiling differences between the XM4 and M4A1, its clear that the XM4 is the more beginner friendly option while still rewarding expert level play.
The XM4‘s vertical recoil pattern and fast handling traits make it extremely easy for less experienced players to find success rushing enemies. Yet its theoretical TTK and ranged viability mean its also lethal in the hands of skilled shooters.
By comparison, the M4A1 is harder to control under full auto fire due to unpredictable horizontal bounce. Novices will struggle hitting shots past 15-20 meters. The M4A1 rewards players for grinding out the recoil control expertise, but most gamers are better off with the XM4.
After extensive in-game testing and evaluation of weapon statistics, the XM4 clearly comes out on top as the best AR in Call of Duty: Warzone Season 4.
While the M4A1 is still an excellent rifle, especially for dedicated players willing to master its recoil, most gamers will find quicker success and more highlights rushing enemies with the XM4 equipped.
So for your next big Battle Royale victory, be sure to customize your XM4 loadout with Agency Suppressor, Task Force barrel, Field Agent grip, 60 round Salvo mags, and Axial Arms 3x scope. This beast of an AR build will have you dropping 20+ kills in no time!
Let me know your thoughts on XM4 vs M4A1 and what assault rifle you currently have equipped in the comments section below!
