Diablo – Are 2-handed weapons ever worth it

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The only 2-handed weapons I have seen so far have been at most only a point or two higher in damage than a 1-handed weapon.

Why would I ever want a 2-handed weapon instead of two 1-handed ones? It seems like two one-handers will always be superior because you can have two sets of bonus effects.

Best Answer

You're looking at DPS, not Damage, right?

Two Handers tend to be slower - you attack much less frequently - but hit much harder. This is particularly useful in combination with the way several channelled or high-cost skills work - you'll conserve your resources more while doing comparable damage with a big heavy weapon, at the cost of defense, or possibly some extra damage. You'll also want to take a look at this question for a rundown on dual wield mechanics:

How is listed DPS calculated when dual-wielding weapons?

(Your class also comes in to play here. For example, Demon Hunters using a 2h such as a Bow instead of a Hand Crossbow can still equip a Quiver in the OH, retaining the stat bonuses from the offhand slot).