What are the best artifact sets for Zhongli in Genshin Impact?

Zhongli is one of the most versatile characters in Genshin Impact, capable of fulfilling multiple roles depending on how you build him. His primary roles include being a shield support, a burst DPS, or a hybrid of both. To maximize his potential, you need to carefully select artifact sets, main stats, and substats that align with his intended role. Below is a detailed guide on how to build Zhongli effectively.

For a shield support Zhongli, the best artifact set is the 4-piece Tenacity of the Millelith. This set increases HP by 20% and boosts the shield strength of your team when an Elemental Skill hits an opponent. Since Zhongli's shield scales with his HP, this set is perfect for maximizing his shielding capabilities. The main stats you should focus on are HP% for the Sands, Goblet, and Circlet. Substats should prioritize HP%, Energy Recharge, and flat HP. This build ensures that Zhongli's shield is as durable as possible, providing excellent protection for your team.

For a burst DPS Zhongli, the 2-piece Archaic Petra and 2-piece Noblesse Oblige set is highly recommended. This combination increases Geo damage by 15% and boosts Elemental Burst damage by 20%. The main stats should focus on ATK% for the Sands, Geo DMG Bonus for the Goblet, and CRIT Rate or CRIT DMG for the Circlet. Substats should prioritize CRIT Rate, CRIT DMG, ATK%, and Energy Recharge. This build allows Zhongli to deal significant damage with his Elemental Burst, making him a valuable asset in any team composition.

For a hybrid Zhongli, you can mix and match artifacts to balance his shield strength and burst damage. A popular choice is the 2-piece Tenacity of the Millelith and 2-piece Noblesse Oblige. This setup provides a 20% HP boost and a 20% increase in Elemental Burst damage. The main stats should be HP% for the Sands, Geo DMG Bonus for the Goblet, and CRIT Rate or CRIT DMG for the Circlet. Substats should focus on HP%, CRIT Rate, CRIT DMG, and Energy Recharge. This build offers a good balance between shield durability and burst damage, making Zhongli a versatile character in various scenarios.

When it comes to weapons, the best choice for a shield support Zhongli is the Black Tassel. This 3-star weapon increases HP by up to 46.9% at level 90, further enhancing his shield strength. For a burst DPS Zhongli, the Staff of Homa is the top choice, providing a significant boost to CRIT DMG and increasing ATK based on HP. Other good options include the Primordial Jade Winged-Spear and the Vortex Vanquisher. For a hybrid build, the Deathmatch is a solid choice, offering a balance of CRIT Rate and ATK%.

In terms of team composition, Zhongli fits well in almost any team due to his versatility. For a shield support role, he pairs excellently with characters who need protection, such as Ganyu or Hu Tao. For a burst DPS role, he works well in Geo-centric teams with characters like Albedo or Ningguang, who can provide additional Geo resonance and energy particles. In a hybrid role, Zhongli can be paired with characters who benefit from both his shield and burst damage, such as Xiao or Eula.

One common mistake to avoid is neglecting Energy Recharge, especially for a burst DPS Zhongli. While his shield is strong, his Elemental Burst is a significant part of his kit, and having enough Energy Recharge ensures that you can use it frequently. Another mistake is focusing too much on CRIT stats for a shield support build. While CRIT stats are important for a burst DPS, they are less crucial for a shield support, where HP% should be the priority.

Advanced techniques include timing Zhongli's Elemental Burst to i-frame through enemy attacks, effectively dodging damage while dealing significant burst damage. Additionally, using his Elemental Skill to create a shield before engaging in combat can provide a significant advantage, especially in challenging content like the Spiral Abyss.

In summary, building Zhongli effectively requires careful consideration of his intended role, whether as a shield support, burst DPS, or hybrid. Selecting the right artifact sets, main stats, and weapons is crucial for maximizing his potential. By focusing on HP% for shield support, CRIT stats for burst DPS, and a balanced approach for hybrid builds, you can create a Zhongli that excels in various team compositions and combat scenarios.