The M4A4 vs M4A1 is one of the longest ongoing debates in Counter-Strike. This decision is a game changer for players as it influences their tactics and determines who wins firefights. In contrast, these two widely recognized rifles are designed to be accurate and deal massive damage but with different approaches that can suit various play styles or strategies.
This detailed guide will examine the details of both guns, such as differences, strengths, and weaknesses so that players can better understand them. This will help when choosing what weapon to carry to your team’s victory.
Pros and Cons of the M4A4 & M4A1
The M4A4 and M4A1 may seem similar on the surface but have significant differences in in-game use. Consequently, you need to know these benefits and drawbacks because they will enable you to take full advantage of the weapon on the battlefield while minimizing its weaknesses. Overall, one doesn’t directly have a significant advantage over the other, and it depends on personal preference.
M4A4 Pros & Cons
Pros: One of the critical factors of the M4A4 is its larger ammo capacity, which lets it hold up to thirty rounds so that players always have enough ammunition for long firefights or multiple enemies. This aspect makes the M4A4 ideal for prolonged engagements. Another thing about this gun is its versatility. Specifically, it can be used in many ways depending on your preferred style, whether defensive or aggressive.
Cons: However, becoming good at using such a weapon like M4A4 means having skillful recoil management due to its confusing spray pattern compared with M4A1, especially during long bursts of shooting, which requires careful spray control. Still, even though there is a learning curve for this gun, skilled players consider it their favorite because they want something that can do everything well in CS.
M4A1 Pros & Cons
Pros: Unlike the M4A4, it has lower recoil, which means more accurate hits can be made, especially at long distances where players have the advantage of better aim. Moreover, this gun can be equipped with a silencer to increase stealthiness by reducing its sound so enemies will not hear where they are being shot.
Cons: However, having only 25 rounds per magazine might become a problem during prolonged firefights when lots of shooting is required. In such situations, players must be careful about using up bullets too quickly and find moments when they can reload without risking getting killed themselves. Besides this, the rate at which M4A1 fires is slower than M4A4, so it’s better for players who prioritize precision.
Comparison between M4A4 and M4A1
Many beginner players tend to get confused between the M4A4 or M4A1, while there isn’t much of a drastic difference between the two weapons. Knowing the difference between them can help you win the game. Here is an in-depth comparison between the two weapons.
Accuracy Comparison
The M4A1 is accurate whether you’re standing, crouching, or on the move. Plus, it doesn’t lose as much damage over long distances as much as the M4A4 does. So, regarding long-range fights, the M4A1-S keeps hitting harder.
Rate of Fire Comparison
Even though the M4A4 has an 11% faster fire rate, it mainly shines when those first bullets land on the head, which doesn’t happen too often. Conversely, the M4A1-S usually gets the job done quicker because it deals much more damage with body shots. According to the CS:GO weapon stats, the M4A1-S takes less time to kill, even though it shoots slower. Therefore, the M4A4 has a faster fire rate overall.
Spray Patterns and Recoil Comparison
The M4A4 demands control and practice with its upward initial shots and vertical climb. At the same time, the M4A1 offers a tighter pattern and reduced ammo with lower recoil, emphasizing vertical recoil control and stealth with its silencer. Therefore, the M4A4 has a higher recoil and is better for head-on spray fights.
Damage and Penetration Power Comparison
The M4A1 packs a punch with a significantly higher damage output than the M4A4, even with similar armor penetration. However, the M4A4 tries to level the playing field with its faster fire rate, 66 RPM higher. Additionally, it shines with a higher headshot damage multiplier that surpasses M4A1s.
Ammo Capacity and Magazine Size Comparison
The M4A4 vs. M4A1 debate settles when it comes to magazine size. The M4A4 has a 30-round magazine, while the M4A1 has only 25 rounds. Moreover, the M4A4’s fire rate is faster, so its magazine can be shorter.
Mobility and Stealth Comparison
While both weapons have similar mobility speeds, players can attach a silencer to the M4A1, preventing enemies from hearing gunshots.
Long-Range VS Close-Range Combat
On expansive maps with extended sightlines, precision from afar becomes crucial. Here, the M4A1 shines with its longer-range accuracy and stealth features. It grants players a distinct advantage in long-range battles, requiring fewer shots to take down opponents thanks to its exceptional accuracy and minimal damage drop-off.
While the M4A4 is still usable and best for intense close-quarters combat, its higher recoil and slightly lower accuracy make it less optimal compared to the precision of the M4A1.
Skins Comparison
The M4A4 Howl is one of the most prominent skins in the game. Its red and black color scheme, alongside an image of a wolf’s head in the center, is one of the key aspects of its popularity. Additionally, its float value ranges from 0.00 to 0.40, meaning the weapon has no battle-scarred version.
The M4A1 Decimator is undoubtedly one of the best skins in the game. Its pink and blue geometric design over a black background gives it a futuristic look. Additionally, its float values are 0.00 to 0.85, making it available in all conditions.
Price Comparison
The two guns have a $200 price difference. However, due to the M4A1’s popularity, it’s considered more valuable than the M4A4. Opting for the M4A1 leaves you with an extra $200, which could be spent on other gear to enhance your performance.
Which Rifle Do Pro Players Choose?
In the professional scene, pro players often lean towards the M4A1 for its superior accuracy, especially in long-range engagements where precision and accurate shots are important. This can be useful on long-range maps. Additionally, the reduced recoil and stealth advantages its silencer provides are highly valued in professional play. However, some players still opt for the M4A4 due to its higher rate of fire, which can be advantageous in certain situations.
Ultimately, the choice between the two rifles often comes down to personal preference and playstyle.
M4A4 and M4A1 Differences Final Words – Which Rifle is Better?
Choosing between the M4A1 vs M4A4 boils down to individual preference and combat scenarios. The M4A1 excels in bigger maps due to its precision, superior accuracy, and stealth, while the M4A4’s higher rate of fire and larger magazine size suit close-quarters combat. Mastering either requires understanding their strengths and adapting to your strategic approach on the battlefield. Therefore, there is no better rifle; however, the right weapon in the right hands can be lethal.
