Dragonite remains one of the most coveted Pokémon in Pokemon Go because of its high base stats and dual Dragon/Flying typing. But simply catching a Dragonite isn’t enough; you need the optimal moveset to dominate raids, PvP, and Research. This guide will walk you through the best Dragonite moveset, explain why each move matters, and give you actionable tips to upgrade and utilize your Dragonite for maximum impact.
Whether you’re a new player or a seasoned raid leader, mastering the best Dragonite moveset can transform your experience. Let’s dive into why this moveset is essential, how to acquire it, and how to keep it battle‑ready.
Why the Best Dragonite Moveset Matters in Pokemon Go
Dragonite’s Core Strengths
Dragonite’s high Attack and HP make it a natural powerhouse. Its dual Dragon/Flying typing gives it versatile resistances and strengths in both PvP and raids. However, its effectiveness is directly tied to the moves it can use. A suboptimal moveset squanders its potential.
Raid Dominance vs. PvP Efficiency
In raids, move damage and type coverage are critical. A good moveset can finish a raid boss in a single hit. In PvP, especially in the Restricted tier, move speed and damage output determine your team’s win rate. The best Dragonite moveset balances these needs.
Competitive Edge in Community Events
During special events like the Great Raid or Mega Raids, having a Dragonite with the optimal moveset can make the difference between earning rare items and missing out. Players often trade or showcase their Dragonite’s moveset during these events.
Understanding why the best Dragonite moveset is vital sets the stage for unlocking it.
Acquiring the Best Dragonite Moveset: Step‑by‑Step
Move 1: Dragon Claw (Fast Move)
Dragon Claw is the default fast move for Dragonite. It provides consistent Energy generation and respectable Attack power. To level it up, simply use it in regular battles or Trainer Battles.
Move 2: Dragon Tail (Fast Move Option)
Dragon Tail is an alternative fast move that offers slightly lower Energy gain but higher Attack. It’s ideal for quick damage spikes in PvP.
Move 3: Dragon Pulse (Charged Move)
Dragon Pulse is a staple charged move for Dragon type Pokémon. It deals high damage and provides type coverage against Dragon, Flying, and Water opponents. It’s the backbone of the best Dragonite moveset.
Move 4: Outrage (Charged Move)
Outrage delivers massive damage but consumes a lot of Energy. It’s excellent for finishing off high‑HP raid bosses and for stunning opponents in PvP.
Upgrading Charged Moves with Candies and Stardust
To evolve Dragonite and unlock its full moveset, you need 12,000 candies plus 200 Stardust. After evolution, the new moves appear. Keep battling to accumulate the required resources.
Once you have all four moves, you’ve unlocked the best Dragonite moveset that maximizes damage output and versatility.
Optimizing Your Best Dragonite Moveset for Raids
Choosing the Right Fast Move
For raid battles, Dragon Claw is recommended due to its higher Energy generation, which allows more charged attacks per raid. Dragon Tail is better if you need higher damage per Attack.
Combining Charged Moves Effectively
A typical raid strategy uses Dragon Pulse first to take out weaker raid partners, then Outrage for a finishing blow. This sequence maximizes damage while conserving Energy.
Using Dragonite’s Type Coverage
When facing Fire or Ice raid bosses, use Dragon Pulse to exploit weaknesses. Against Water or Dragon bosses, Outrage can exploit both types’ resistances.
Raid Battle Checklist
- Start with a full Energy Bar.
- Use Dragon Pulse first for safety.
- Switch to Outrage when the boss is low on HP.
- Keep an eye on your Energy to avoid missing charged moves.
Following this setup ensures your Dragonite delivers maximum damage during raids.
Maximizing PvP Performance with the Best Dragonite Moveset
Scouting Your Opponents
In PvP, knowing the enemy’s type allows you to choose the best Charged move. For example, against a Dragon-type opponent, Dragon Pulse is less effective, so Outrage is preferable.
The “Dragon Claw + Dragon Pulse” Combo
This combo gives a balanced approach: quick Energy gain with Dragon Claw and solid damage with Dragon Pulse. It’s ideal for Restricted tier battles.
Using Outrage in the Late Stage
Outrage’s high damage and Energy cost make it perfect for the final stages of a battle when you need to secure victory. Timing is crucial to avoid leaving the opponent with a counter‑attack.
PvP Matchup Table
| Opponent Type | Fast Move Recommendation | Charged Move Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Fire | Dragon Claw | Dragon Pulse |
| Water | Dragon Claw | Outrage |
| Dragon | Dragon Tail | Outrage |
| Flying | Dragon Claw | Dragon Pulse |
Use this table to make quick decisions in PvP battles.
Comparison of Dragonite Movesets: Classic vs. Updated
| Moveset | Fast Move | Charged Move 1 | Charged Move 2 | Damage Output |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | Dragon Claw | Dragon Pulse | Outrage | High |
| Updated (2026) | Dragon Tail | Outrage | Dragon Pulse | Very High |
The updated moveset offers slightly higher damage through optimized move order, especially useful in raids where every hit counts.
Expert Tips for Maintaining the Best Dragonite Moveset
- Keep a steady supply of Dragonite candies by using it in Trainer Battles.
- Use the “Battle” tab daily to trigger Energy generation.
- Explore “Battle Pass” rewards for exclusive move upgrades.
- Participate in community research for extra candies and Stardust.
- Schedule regular raid participation to maintain Max HP.
- Join a guild to access shared resources for Candy.
- Monitor move cooldowns to avoid missing critical charged attacks.
- Invest in 5‑Star Dragonite to unlock rare move variations.
Frequently Asked Questions about best dragonite moveset pokemon go
What is the best fast move for Dragonite?
Dragon Claw is the default and best fast move for rapid energy generation. Dragon Tail is an alternative that offers higher Attack if you prefer a faster damage output.
Which charged move combo is most effective in raids?
The Dragon Pulse → Outrage combo maximizes damage while ensuring you have enough Energy to finish the raid boss.
How many candies do I need to move Dragonite?
To unlock the full moveset, you need 12,000 Dragonite candies and 200 Stardust.
Can I change Dragonite’s moves after evolution?
No. Once Dragonite evolves, its moves are fixed. However, you can choose between the two available fast moves.
Is Outrage a good move for PvP?
Outrage is very powerful in PvP but has a long cooldown. It’s best used in the final moments of a battle.
How often should I battle with Dragonite?
Daily battles keep the Energy bar full and provide candies; aim for at least 20 battles a day.
Can I switch Dragonite’s moves temporarily?
No. Moves are permanent once unlocked. You must train both moves to use them efficiently.
What’s the best type matchup against Dragonite?
Water, Dragon, and Ground types are strong against Dragonite due to their resistances.
Does a 5‑Star Dragonite change the moveset?
No, the moveset stays the same, but a 5‑Star increases Attack and HP, improving overall damage.
Where can I get extra Dragonite candies?
Use the “Team Up” feature, join guilds, and complete Community Day events to earn extra candies.
Conclusion
Unlocking and mastering the best Dragonite moveset in Pokemon Go unlocks a new level of gameplay. With the right combination of Dragon Claw, Dragon Pulse, and Outrage, you can dominate raids, outperform in PvP, and stand out in community events.
Apply these strategies, keep training, and soon your Dragonite will become the star of every battle. Ready to take your Dragonite to the next level? Dive into raids, share your moveset with the community, and watch your success soar.
