When you set off on a quest in Skyrim, one of the first choices you make is who to bring along. Each follower offers unique skills, combat styles, and personality quirks. But which one truly stands out as the best? The answer depends on your play style, but we’ve narrowed the field to seven standout companions that consistently deliver top-tier performance and fun.
In this guide, we’ll answer the question “Skyrim who is the best follower” by breaking down each candidate’s strengths, weaknesses, and ideal usage scenarios. Whether you’re a lone wolf or a team-focused adventurer, you’ll find a follower that fits your game plan.
Understanding the Follower System in Skyrim
How Followers Work
Followers can be recruited in towns, dungeons, or by completing quests. They can tank damage, heal, or provide ranged support.
Follower Levels and Upgrades
Followers gain levels with you, unlocking new gear and abilities. Some receive special upgrades when you complete related quests.
Follower Death and Respawn Rules
If a follower dies, you can respawn them by speaking to a quest giver or using the console. Knowing this helps you keep your best companion alive.
Top 7 Followers Ranked for Combat and Utility
1. Lydia – The Steadfast Shield
Lydia starts at level 1 and rises with you, becoming a solid tank. She wields a greatsword and shines in close combat.
2. Astrid – The Archmage Companion
Astrid excels in magic, offering powerful spells like firestorm and frostbite. She is ideal for magic-heavy builds.
3. Chell – The Silent Assassin
Chell’s stealth and dagger skills make her perfect for surprise attacks. She also provides supportive healing spells.
4. Mjoll the Lioness – The Unyielding Warrior
Mjoll’s exceptional health and damage output make her a frontline powerhouse.
5. Serana – The Undead Siren
Serana’s vampiric abilities and soul magic add unique versatility, especially later in the game.
6. Grelka – The Weathered Hunter
Grelka offers excellent archery support and a hunting-focused skill set.
7. Sero – The Quick-Draw Hunter
Sero’s speed and range make him a formidable tracker, ideal for hunting creatures.
Follower Skill Trees and Progression Paths
Combat Focused Followers
Followers like Lydia and Mjoll benefit from the Warrior tree, increasing health and melee damage.
Magic Focused Followers
Astrid thrives on the Destruction tree, unlocking powerful fire and frost spells.
Stealth and Ranged Followers
Chell and Grelka gain from the Stealth and Archery trees, enhancing sneak attacks and bow damage.
Follower Gear and Equipment Recommendations
Equipping followers with the best gear boosts their effectiveness. Use the following table to match gear to follower type.
| Follower | Best Weapon | Best Armor | Recommended Skill Tree |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lydia | Dragonbone Greatsword | Helgen Shield Armor | Heavy Armor, Warrior |
| Astrid | Destruction Staff | Arcane Robes | Destruction, Conjuration |
| Chell | Steel Dagger | Light Leather Armor | Stealth, Sneak |
| Mjoll | Dragonbone Axe | Champion’s Armor | Block, Heavy Armor |
| Serana | Void Blade | Undead Armor | Necromancy, Illusion |
| Grelka | Storm Bow | Elven Archery Gear | Archery, Survival |
| Sero | Short Bow | Ranger’s Garb | Archery, Tracking |
Expert Tips for Maximizing Follower Performance
- Prioritize follower quests to unlock special gear.
- Use the console command
player.setrelationshiprank [Follower] 5to ensure loyalty. - Equip followers with armor that matches your own to boost morale.
- Give followers the ability to use your best spells by adding them to your spell list.
- Rotate followers when encountering different enemy types.
- Keep followers alive by maintaining adequate food and potions.
- Use follower dialogue to uncover hidden quests and lore.
- Test follower combinations in a sandbox to find your sweet spot.
Frequently Asked Questions about skyrim who is the best follower
What is the best follower for a mage build?
Astrid offers powerful destruction spells and can adapt to your magic style, making her ideal for mages.
Which follower should I choose for a stealth playthrough?
Chell excels in stealth and provides useful support spells, making her the top choice.
Can I have multiple followers at once?
No, Skyrim allows only one follower at a time, but you can switch between them as needed.
Is Serana a great follower for early game?
Serana becomes available later, so she’s more useful in mid to late game stages.
How do I keep my follower alive during tough battles?
Equip them with high health armor and keep a supply of healing potions nearby.
Can followers use my weapon?
Followers can use weapons you give them, but they will not use your best gear unless you equip them on them.
What happens if my follower dies?
You can respawn them by speaking to a quest giver or using console commands.
Do follower skills boost my character?
Followers can provide extra damage or healing, indirectly boosting your survivability.
Can I change a follower’s skill tree?
No, a follower’s skill tree is fixed based on their base stats.
How many followers are available in Skyrim?
There are over 20 distinct followers, each with unique quests and abilities.
Conclusion
Choosing the best follower in Skyrim revolves around your play style, the challenges you face, and the traits you value most. Whether you prefer a sturdy tank, a spell‑casting ally, or a stealth assassin, our list provides a solid starting point.
Experiment with different companions, upgrade their gear, and watch your adventures in Skyrim become richer and more dynamic. Ready to find your ideal partner? Grab a follower and hit the road—your legend awaits.
