In Diablo4, there are two main defensive options; Armor and Damage Reduction.
Many players often wonder which options is better, so let's take a closer look.
To begin with, the conclusion is that Armor should be prioritized as the top defensive option.
Damage Reduction should be considered as a secondary option after raising Armor.
When it comes to pants, they can have either Armor or Damage Reduction.
If both are present, it doesn't matter which option is chosen.
However, if only one option is available, it may lead to a dilemma of deciding which one is better.
The exact formula for Armor and damage reduction in Diablo 4 based on character level is not explicitly disclosed,
but you can calculate it using the current character's defense and damage reduction values.
Let's go through an example calculation.
At level 89, with a Armor value of 7,801, the calculated damage reduction is 76%.
Similarly, at level 89 with a Armor value of 8,330, the calculated damage reduction is 84%.
1) +6.8% Total Armor
If the defense is increased by 6.8% from 7,801, the defense would be 8,330. (7,801 X (1 + 0.068) = 8,330)
Let's assume the character receives 1,000 damage from an enemy.
With a defense of 7,801, there is a 76% damage reduction, resulting in 240 damage taken.
With a defense increase of 6.8% to 8,330, there is an 84% damage reduction, resulting in 160 damage taken.
Therefore, there is an additional 80 points of damage reduction.
2) 6.8% Damage Reduction
Let's apply a damage reduction of 6.8% instead of a defense increase of 6.8%.
With a defense of 7,801, the character takes 240 damage.
Applying a damage reduction of 6.8%, the final damage taken would be 240 X (1 - 0.068) = 224.
Therefore, there is an additional 16 points of damage reduction. (240 - 224 = 16)
We have reached a conclusion.
Based on the calculations, at level 89, a Armor increase of 6.8% is five times more efficient
than a Damage Reduction of 6.8%. (80 / 16 = 5)
Through this simple calculation, we have evaluated the effectiveness of Armor and Damage Reduction.
It's important to note that the efficiency may vary depending on your current level and defense values.
However, since Armor is prioritized as the primary option and Damage Reduction as the secondary option,
in general situations, choosing Armor as a priority would be recommended.
The effectiveness of the damage reduction option is lower
because it is calculated after considering Armor and Elemental Resistance.
In addition, for Elemental Damage, resistance accounts for 50% of the damage reduction,
while the remaining 50% is determined by Armor.
For those reading this,
prioritizing Armor and then focusing on Damage Reduction and Resistance will allow you
to enjoy a safer journey in the world of Diablo 4.
Thank you.