7 Best Initial Presets In Escape From Tarkov: Arena

Getting started in Escape From Tarkov: Arena can feel overwhelming with all the preset loadouts available, especially when you’re trying to climb ranks or just survive your first few matches. Presets are your pre-built kits, and some of them offer a major advantage early on—whether it’s better armor, powerful weapons, or reliable healing options. In this guide, we’ll break down the best initial presets in Arena so you know exactly which ones give you the strongest start and help you level up faster.

#7: Stargazer

Stargazer is an Assault class preset in Escape From Tarkov: Arena that offers incredible close-range power—if you can stay alive long enough to use it. It comes equipped with a Revolver Shotgun loaded with Flechette rounds, which can shred through enemies regardless of their armor. The catch? You have to be practically on top of your opponent for it to be effective. With only a class 2 vest and no helmet, Stargazer doesn’t give you much room for mistakes. It’s risky, but in tight spaces, it can be downright deadly.

Stargazer Preset Details
• Cost: ₽47,700
• Class: Assault
• Unlocks Next Preset: Farmer

#6: Argument

Argument is a Rating preset in Escape From Tarkov: Arena that’s surprisingly solid for early matches. It features the VPO-209, a dependable rifle that fires .366 TKM EKO rounds—an early-game ammo type that performs well against most low- to mid-tier armor. The main downside? You’re working with a small magazine and zero armor protection. The included helmet is barely worth mentioning, so you’ll need to rely on positioning and quick shots to come out on top. It’s a high-risk, high-reward setup that can punch above its weight if you play smart.

Argument Preset Details
• Cost: ₽47,300
• Class: Rating (not tied to a specific class)
• Next Preset: Unlocks additional Rating presets as you rank up.

#5: Guard

Guard is one of the more reliable starter presets in the Assault class, centered around the classic SKS rifle—a fan-favorite early-wipe weapon in Escape From Tarkov. It fires 7.62x39 US GZH ammo, which isn’t the strongest round, but it has low recoil and enough armor penetration to be effective against most early-game opponents. What makes this preset stand out is its armor. Guard is the only loadout among the initial sixteen that comes with class 4 armor, giving you a serious durability edge in close to mid-range fights. It doesn’t include a helmet, but that trade-off feels fair considering how tanky the chest protection is.

Guard Preset Details
• Price: ₽46,900
• Class: Assault
• Next Preset: Ratnik

#4: Champion

Champion stands out as the most powerful and pricey starting preset available through the Rating category in Escape From Tarkov: Arena. With a solid all-around build, it includes the STM-9 loaded with high-quality ammo, decent body armor, and even headsets—something most early kits lack. It’s designed for versatility, performing well at close quarters, mid-range skirmishes, and even at longer distances thanks to its optic attachment.

Its biggest drawback? The lack of direct progression. Since Champion is a Rating preset and not tied to a class like Assault or CQB, you won’t be working toward a specific upgrade path. That said, it’s still a fantastic option if you’re looking for a strong loadout right out the gate and don’t mind ranking up other presets later on.

Champion Preset Details
• Price: ₽76,100
• Class: Rating (no class association)
• Next Preset: No direct progression; more Rating loadouts unlock as you level up.

#3: Handler

Handler is one of the standout presets in the Scout class, and it’s no surprise why—it thrives in close-quarters fights, which make up the majority of combat scenarios across Arena’s maps. Armed with an MP5-K using 9x19 AP 6.3 ammo and 20-round mags, Handler brings serious stopping power despite its compact form. This kit also includes one of the rare early-game perks: a headset, giving you the edge in audio awareness during chaotic engagements.

While the included Paca armor won’t save you from high-penetration rounds, it still offers decent protection against low-tier threats and helps you stay alive in quick firefights. Thanks to its lightweight build and high mobility, Handler is perfect for aggressive players who want to control the pace of the match.

Handler Preset Details
• Price: ₽46,300
• Class: Scout
• Next Preset: Runner

#2: Owl

Owl is a top-tier early-game preset from the Marksman class, built specifically for players who want to dominate from a distance. It features the Vepr-Hunter—a semi-automatic rifle that hits like a truck—equipped with a mid-range optic and suppressor to help you stay stealthy while picking enemies off from afar. Despite having only ten rounds per mag, it fires 7.62x51 rounds that can one-shot opponents wearing up to class three armor.

What really makes Owl shine is its versatility. While it’s designed for long-range engagements, the raw power of the Vepr-Hunter makes it viable in medium and even closer-range fights if your aim is on point. This preset is perfect for players who prefer positioning and precision over spraying bullets.

Owl Preset Details
• Price: ₽56,000
• Class: Marksman
• Next Preset: Cowboy

#1: Plantain

Plantain stands out as the strongest starting preset in Escape From Tarkov: Arena. Found under the Scout class, this loadout equips you with the PP-91-01 Kedr, a fast-firing SMG with 30-round mags. While the ammo isn’t the most armor-piercing, it shreds flesh at close range, which is where most fights in Arena take place. Pair that with decent 6B2 armor and a bonus F1 grenade, and you’ve got a setup that’s deadly right out of the gate.

This preset thrives in close quarters—just hold angles, push corners confidently, and unload on enemies. With 30 rounds at your disposal, you’ve got more than enough chances to land headshots on unhelmeted players or spam legs for a quick takedown if they’re geared. It’s reliable, aggressive, and easy to play, making it the go-to loadout for beginners and seasoned players alike.

Plantain Preset Details
• Price: ₽47,100
• Class: Scout
• Next Preset: Vityaz

Conclusion

Escape From Tarkov: Arena can feel brutal when you’re just getting started, but choosing the right preset can make all the difference. Whether you’re locking down tight corners with an SMG, picking enemies off from a distance, or pushing aggressively with high-flesh damage weapons, each of the best starting presets brings something valuable to the table. Some shine because of raw firepower, others because of utility and survivability—but all of them give you a solid fighting chance right out of the gate. If you’re looking to climb faster and win more fights early on, stick with one of these top presets and master its strengths.