When deciding whether to use a Lesser Jeweller’s Orb or wait for a Greater Jeweller’s Orb to expand your skill gem sockets in Path of Exile 2, understanding their differences and availability is key to optimizing your build progression.

Lesser Jeweller’s Orbs add a third support gem socket to skill gems that already have two sockets, while Greater Jeweller’s Orbs add a fourth socket to gems with three sockets. Lesser Jeweller’s Orbs start dropping relatively early in the game (around level 25), making them more accessible for beginners and mid-level players. Greater Jeweller’s Orbs begin dropping later (around level 45) and are significantly rarer, often commanding high prices in trade due to their scarcity. If you’re short on time or prefer efficiency, some players opt to buy poe 2 currency to secure both orb types early.

Because Lesser Jeweller’s Orbs are more common and easier to farm, it’s generally advisable to use them as soon as you have skill gems with two sockets to boost your build’s power early on. Adding a third socket allows you to link an additional support gem, which can substantially increase damage or utility without waiting for rarer currency. This approach helps stabilize your build and progress through mid-game content efficiently.

Waiting for Greater Jeweller’s Orbs to add a fourth socket is often challenging due to their rarity and the difficulty of farming them. Many players report running high-tier maps for dozens or even hundreds of hours without finding one. Because of this scarcity, it’s usually not practical to hold off on socket upgrades in hopes of immediately achieving four-link gems. Instead, focus on maximizing your build with three-link setups using Lesser Jeweller’s Orbs, which provide a solid power boost and are more readily attainable.

That said, if you have the patience and resources, saving up for Greater Jeweller’s Orbs to push key skill gems to four sockets can yield significant power gains in the late game. Farming strategies for Greater Jeweller’s Orbs typically involve running high-tier (Tier 11+) maps with modifiers that increase pack size, monster rarity, and item quantity, as well as engaging map mechanics like Breach or Delirium to maximize drops. Allocating Atlas passives such as Local Knowledge in Grass Biome maps can also improve your chances. Alternatively, trading for them via players listing poe 2 currency for sale can fast-track your upgrade without excessive grind.

The best socket strategy is to use Lesser Jeweller’s Orbs early and often to add a third support gem socket, enhancing your build’s effectiveness without delay. Waiting for Greater Jeweller’s Orbs to add a fourth socket is worthwhile for late-game optimization but should not hinder your early progression due to their extreme rarity. Balancing immediate power gains with long-term goals ensures steady build improvement throughout your Path of Exile 2 journey.