5 Best Alternatives to P90 CS:GO in 2026

Why look beyond P90 CS:GO

The P90 is a submachine gun in Counter-Strike 2, priced at $2350, offering a distinct profile within the SMG category. Its defining features include a large 50-round magazine and a high fire rate of 857 RPM, enabling sustained suppression in close-quarters engagements. The weapon's wall penetration capability allows for damage through thin surfaces, a characteristic shared with other SMGs.

Despite these attributes, the P90's effectiveness against armored opponents is limited due to its 69.2% armor penetration. This limitation often places it at a disadvantage in direct confrontations with players equipped with rifles and full armor, particularly in later rounds. While its high magazine capacity can be forgiving for less precise aim, the P90's cost-to-performance ratio in competitive play often leads professional players and strategists to opt for more cost-effective SMGs in eco rounds or to save for rifles when funds permit [1]. Alternatives are frequently considered to better address economic constraints, specific tactical roles, or to achieve higher impact against armored targets.

Top alternatives ranked

1. 1. UMP-45 — A cost-effective SMG with superior armor penetration.

   The UMP-45 is an SMG available to both Counter-Terrorist and Terrorist teams in CS:GO, priced at $1200. It distinguishes itself from other SMGs, including the P90, primarily through its 75% armor penetration, which is notably higher than the P90's 69.2% [1]. This attribute makes the UMP-45 more effective against armored opponents, a critical factor in mid-to-late round engagements where enemies are likely to have purchased armor. While its fire rate of 666 RPM is lower and its magazine capacity is 25 rounds compared to the P90's 50, the UMP-45 offers a more controlled spray pattern and higher damage per shot against armored targets. It is often chosen for eco rounds or force buys when players anticipate encountering armored enemies but cannot afford a rifle. Its versatility allows it to perform well in close-to-medium range engagements, providing a balance between economy and combat effectiveness.

   Best for:

   • Eco rounds on CT side
   • Anti-eco utility
   • Close-to-medium range engagements

2. 2. MP9 — A rapid-fire, CT-exclusive SMG for aggressive anti-eco plays.

   The MP9 is a Counter-Terrorist exclusive SMG in CS:GO, priced at $1250. It offers a very high fire rate of 857 RPM, matching that of the P90, and a 30-round magazine [1]. This combination makes the MP9 highly effective in close-quarters combat and for aggressive pushes on the CT side, particularly during anti-eco rounds when the opposing team is less likely to have full armor. While its armor penetration is 65%, slightly lower than the P90, its lower price point makes it a more economically viable option for early-round aggression or force buys. The MP9's light weight also contributes to faster movement speed, allowing CT players to reposition quickly and maintain map control. Its primary strength lies in its ability to quickly eliminate unarmored or lightly armored opponents, providing a significant economic advantage for the CT team.

   Best for:

   • Anti-eco rounds
   • Close-quarters combat
   • Force buys on CT side

3. 3. MAC-10 — A budget T-side SMG for rapid close-range engagements.

   The MAC-10 is a Terrorist-exclusive SMG in CS:GO, priced at $1050, making it one of the most affordable weapons in the game. It features a high fire rate of 800 RPM and a 30-round magazine, similar to the MP9's role on the CT side [1]. The MAC-10 excels in close-quarters combat and is a popular choice for aggressive eco rounds or anti-eco strategies where the Terrorist team aims to overwhelm the CTs with rapid pushes. Its low cost makes it an ideal choice for rounds where the team needs to save money for future rifle buys but still wants to contest early engagements. While its armor penetration of 57.5% is lower than the P90 and other SMGs, its high damage output against unarmored opponents and its mobility make it a potent tool for disrupting CT setups and securing early picks.

   Best for:

   • Eco rounds
   • Anti-eco rounds
   • Close-quarters combat
   • Rushing strategies

4. 4. MP7 — A versatile SMG for balanced close-to-medium range combat.

   The MP7 is an SMG available to both Counter-Terrorist and Terrorist teams in CS:GO, priced at $1500. It offers a balanced profile, with a 750 RPM fire rate and a 30-round magazine [1]. The MP7 is often considered a middle-ground option between the cheaper, faster-firing SMGs and the more expensive, higher-damage UMP-45. Its armor penetration of 62.5% is lower than the UMP-45 but comparable to the P90, making it reasonably effective against armored opponents in close-to-medium range engagements. The MP7's recoil is manageable, allowing for more precise sprays than some other SMGs. It serves well in eco rounds or force buys when players need a weapon that can perform adequately in various situations without breaking the bank. Its versatility makes it a solid choice for holding angles or pushing with some degree of confidence against both unarmored and lightly armored enemies.

   Best for:

   • Eco rounds on CT side
   • Close to medium range engagements
   • Anti-eco force buys

5. 5. MP5-SD — A silent, accurate CT-side SMG for stealth and control.

   The MP5-SD is a Counter-Terrorist exclusive SMG in CS:GO, priced at $1500. It features an integrated suppressor, which not only conceals muzzle flash but also reduces sound, making it a viable option for stealthy plays and flanking maneuvers [1]. With a fire rate of 750 RPM and a 30-round magazine, its statistics are similar to the MP7. The MP5-SD's armor penetration is 62.5%, aligning with the MP7 and making it moderately effective against armored targets. Its primary advantage over other SMGs, including the P90, is its suppressed fire, which can be crucial for maintaining surprise or engaging enemies without immediately revealing position. While it doesn't offer the P90's large magazine capacity, its accuracy and silent operation provide a tactical edge for CTs looking to control engagements more subtly, particularly in anti-eco scenarios or during cautious pushes.

   Best for:

   • Stealthy engagements and flanking
   • CT-side anti-eco rounds
   • Controlling engagements without revealing position

Side-by-side

How to pick

Selecting an alternative to the P90 depends on several factors, primarily your team's economy, your role, and the current round's tactical objectives. Each SMG offers a distinct advantage that can be leveraged in specific scenarios.

For Maximum Armor Penetration: If your primary concern is effectiveness against armored opponents, especially in force-buy rounds where enemies might have partial or full armor, the UMP-45 stands out. Its 75% armor penetration rate is the highest among the SMGs listed, making it a strong choice when you need to inflict reliable damage against protected targets without the cost of a rifle.

For Aggressive Anti-Eco Rounds (CT Side): If you are playing as a Counter-Terrorist and looking to aggressively push or hold close angles against an ecoing Terrorist team, the MP9 is a highly effective choice. Its high fire rate and mobility allow for rapid engagements and quick eliminations of unarmored or lightly armored enemies. Its low cost further solidifies its position as a go-to for CT force buys.

For Aggressive Anti-Eco Rounds (T Side): Similarly, for Terrorist players seeking a low-cost, high-impact weapon for aggressive rushes or eco rounds, the MAC-10 is the most suitable alternative. Its very low price point makes it an excellent economic choice, and its high fire rate allows for overwhelming close-quarters engagements against unarmored CTs.

For Balanced Performance and Versatility: If you need an SMG that offers a balance of fire rate, magazine size, and moderate effectiveness against armored targets for both CT and T sides, the MP7 is a strong contender. It's a versatile option for players who want a reliable SMG that can perform adequately in a range of close-to-medium engagements without specializing too heavily in one area.

For Stealth and Tactical Advantage (CT Side): For Counter-Terrorists who prioritize stealth, flanking, or silent engagements, the MP5-SD is the preferred alternative. Its integrated suppressor allows for covert operations, making it harder for enemies to pinpoint your location, which can be critical for securing picks or holding unexpected angles without revealing your position immediately.

Consider your team's overall strategy, the economic state of both teams, and your personal playstyle when making your selection. Each alternative offers a trade-off in price, effectiveness against armor, and engagement range, allowing for tailored weapon choices to optimize your performance in various CS:GO scenarios.