Mastering the inventory system in Elden Ring can be the difference between victory and defeat, especially during fast-paced combat. One of the most underrated yet essential mechanics in the game is the quick equip function. Whether you’re switching between weapons, using consumables, or managing spells, knowing how to quick equip in Elden Ring will dramatically improve your efficiency and reaction time. While the game doesn’t always clearly explain these functions, understanding and practicing them will give you a true edge in the Lands Between.
Understanding the Quick Equip Feature
What is Quick Equip in Elden Ring?
Quick equip in Elden Ring allows players to assign weapons, items, and spells to a shortcut menu, enabling fast access during battle. Instead of navigating through the full inventory mid-fight, quick equip helps you stay in motion and make swift decisions. This feature is particularly useful when you’re dodging enemies, healing, or switching between magic and melee combat.
Where to Access the Quick Equip Menu
To use quick equip, you’ll first need to understand where the function is located. You can find it in your Equipment menu, which is accessed by pressing the main menu button (typically the Options button on PS or Menu button on Xbox). From there, navigate to one of these categories:
- Main Hand Weapon Slots
- Off-Hand Weapon Slots
- Armor Pieces
- Quick Item Slots
- Spell Memory Slots
Each of these slots can be assigned manually to allow quick swapping or usage during gameplay.
Assigning Weapons and Gear
How to Equip Weapons Quickly
Each character has up to three slots per hand. To equip a weapon quickly, scroll to the right-hand or left-hand armament section, then assign the weapon of your choice to any available slot. During gameplay, you can then cycle through these weapons by pressing left or right on the D-pad.
Tips for Weapon Slot Management
- Keep your primary weapon in the first slot for immediate access.
- Assign a secondary weapon that complements your build (e.g., a shield or backup sword).
- Avoid cluttering all three slots unless necessary, as cycling through too many items may slow you down in battle.
Using Quick Equip for Armor
While armor isn’t something you switch mid-battle, you can still equip different pieces depending on your loadout. Heavier armor increases defense but may cause fat-rolling. Use the quick equip menu to make swaps that balance protection and agility before tough boss fights.
Managing Consumables and Items
Setting Up Quick Item Slots
Healing flasks, buffs, throwing knives, and other consumables can be added to your quick item bar. This bar appears on the bottom-left of your screen during gameplay. To assign them:
- Open the Equipment menu.
- Navigate to the Quick Items section (flask icon).
- Select an empty slot or swap an existing item.
- Choose the item from your inventory that you want quick access to.
Once equipped, you can cycle through these items with the down button on the D-pad. To use one, press the square button on PS (X on Xbox).
Strategic Item Choices
- Always keep your Crimson Flask (HP) in the first slot.
- Include at least one ranged item like Fire Pot or Kukri.
- Use buffs such as Magic Grease or Wondrous Physick if applicable.
Spell Quick Equip
Equipping Spells for Fast Access
If you’re playing a caster or hybrid build, managing your spells is critical. To equip spells:
- Visit a Site of Grace.
- Select ‘Memorize Spell.’
- Assign available spells to your memory slots based on your Intelligence, Faith, or Arcane stats.
During gameplay, cycle through your spells using the up button on the D-pad, and cast them with R1 or R2 depending on your catalyst type.
Best Practices for Spell Management
- Place your primary attack spell in the first slot.
- Assign utility spells like buffs, healing, or crowd control in later slots.
- Avoid filling all slots if you can’t rotate quickly during fights.
Using the Pouch System
What is the Pouch?
The pouch is an additional quick access system separate from your main inventory and quick item bar. You can assign four items or emotes to your pouch and access them by holding Triangle (or Y on Xbox) and pressing a directional button.
How to Customize Your Pouch
From the Equipment screen, look to the right side of the screen where the pouch is located. Assign items like this:
- Highlight the pouch slot.
- Press the button prompt to assign an item (usually Triangle or Y).
- Select your preferred item or emote.
Once assigned, hold the pouch trigger and press the D-pad direction corresponding to the item.
Recommended Pouch Items
- Mount (Spectral Steed Whistle)
- Lantern for dark areas
- Wondrous Physick for emergency healing
- Favorite emote or gesture for quick roleplay
Improving Speed and Muscle Memory
Practice Makes Perfect
Getting fast at using quick equip in Elden Ring takes time. Set up your weapons and items in an intuitive order so your muscle memory naturally follows. Practice cycling between gear, items, and spells while idle or in safe zones to build speed.
Avoid Panic During Combat
During intense boss battles, it’s easy to fumble between menus. Avoid scrolling too fast or overshooting the item you need. Keep your layout minimal and organized to avoid confusion under pressure.
Revisit Your Setup Regularly
As your character evolves, so should your quick equip layout. New weapons, spells, or playstyles might require rearrangement. Take time between major encounters to adjust your setup accordingly.
Quick Equip in Elden Ring
Mastering quick equip in Elden Ring is essential for survival, especially during fast-paced and high-stakes encounters. By organizing your weapons, spells, and items for rapid access, you gain control over the battlefield and can respond instantly to any threat. Whether you’re using the D-pad to swap weapons or assigning your Spectral Steed Whistle to the pouch, small changes in setup can create big differences in gameplay flow. Take the time to explore all your quick equip options and develop a system that suits your build and playstyle. Once it becomes second nature, you’ll find yourself better prepared for the many dangers lurking in the Lands Between.