Path of Exile 2: How to Unlock & Use Currency Exchange

Mar-11-2025 PST

Path of Exile 2 is the highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed Path of Exile, a game renowned for its complex mechanics, massive skill tree, and engaging content. The game's deep and expansive world offers players a wealth of systems to explore, including its rich currency mechanics. One system that is set to become a key feature in Path of Exile 2 is Currency Exchange.

 

For players unfamiliar with the previous game or currency systems in Path of Exile, understanding how POE 2 Currency works is crucial to maximizing your gameplay experience. Currency is not only a means to purchase items and upgrades but also a tool for trading, crafting, and upgrading your character's gear.

 

The Currency Exchange system in Path of Exile 2 is designed to enhance the game's economy by allowing players to exchange different types of in-game currency. This system will be particularly useful for optimizing your playstyle and navigating the ever-changing market of Path of Exile 2.

 

In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know about unlocking and using the Currency Exchange system, from understanding how it works to practical tips for maximizing your returns and trading efficiently.


What is the Currency Exchange System?

 

In Path of Exile 2, the Currency Exchange system allows players to exchange one form of in-game currency for another. Currency in Path of Exile 2 comes in many forms, ranging from Orbs and Scrolls to rarer, more valuable items used for crafting, upgrading, and trading. This system is designed to streamline the process of managing different currencies and provide players with greater flexibility in their trades.

 

In the past, players often found themselves accumulating large amounts of one form of currency (such as Chaos Orbs) and struggling to trade it for something they needed (like Exalted Orbs). The Currency Exchange system aims to solve this by enabling players to convert one form of currency into another directly, allowing for more efficient trading and crafting.


Types of Currency in Path of Exile 2

 

Before diving into how to unlock and use the Currency Exchange system, it's important to understand the different types of currency you'll encounter in Path of Exile 2. The game features a broad range of currency items, each serving different purposes within the economy:

 

Chaos Orbs (Chaos): One of the most common forms of currency, Chaos Orbs are used to reroll the random modifiers on a piece of gear. They are also one of the standard trade currencies.

 

Exalted Orbs (Exalted): These rare orbs are used to add a new random modifier to a piece of equipment. Exalted Orbs are often used to craft high-value items, and they hold significant value in the market.

 

Orb of Alchemy (Alchemy): Used to upgrade a normal item to a rare item with random affixes. This currency is typically used in crafting to improve the quality of your gear.

 

Orb of Regret (Regret): This item is used to refund skill points spent on the passive skill tree, offering a great deal of flexibility for respecs.

 

Fusing Orbs (Fusing): These are used to link the sockets of a piece of equipment, which is important for crafting powerful items with multiple linked sockets for skill gems.

 

Scrolls of Wisdom (Wisdom): These are used to identify items and are essential for understanding the properties of your gear.

 
Divine Orbs (Divine): Used to reroll the values of the modifiers on items that already have stats. These are often employed in the late-game crafting of high-tier gear.

 
Currency Shards: Special currency items that can be used to exchange for full orbs at certain vendors or through specific mechanics.

 

These are just a few examples, but Path of Exile 2 includes a wide range of other currency items, each with their own specific use. Some currencies are more common and are used frequently, while others are rare and highly valuable.


Unlocking the Currency Exchange System

 

The Currency Exchange system is not available from the beginning of your journey in Path of Exile 2. There are a few key steps to unlock this feature, and you will need to progress through certain stages of the game before you can take full advantage of it.

 

Progress Through the Storyline: In order to unlock the Currency Exchange system, you must first progress through the main story and complete a few of the key chapters. The Currency Exchange system will likely become available once you have reached a point in the game where trading and currency management are critical to advancing your character's strength and progression.

 

Reach Endgame Content: Much like the original Path of Exile, many of the most useful systems in the game are unlocked when you reach the endgame. This includes access to high-tier crafting, trading, and more advanced features like the Currency Exchange. The Currency Exchange will be tied to endgame content and will be accessible once you have completed certain missions or reached a specific level.

 

Unlock the Currency Exchange NPC: Once you've reached the required stages in the game, you will gain access to an NPC (Non-Player Character) or an in-game vendor who offers the Currency Exchange service. This NPC will act as your primary means of accessing the system. Be sure to complete any quests or objectives tied to this NPC to unlock the full functionality of the exchange.

 

Currency Shards and Exchange Rates: In Path of Exile 2, currency shards may also play a role in accessing the Currency Exchange system. Currency Shards are smaller fragments of the full orbs and are typically used in a one-to-one exchange. By collecting enough shards of a certain type, you'll be able to exchange them for a full orb, opening up more opportunities for trading and crafting.

 

How to Use the Currency Exchange System

 

Once you've unlocked the Currency Exchange system, you'll be able to use it to convert one form of currency into another. Here's how the system works and how you can maximize its potential:

 

Access the Currency Exchange NPC: To begin exchanging currencies, you need to find the NPC that offers this service. This NPC will typically be located in major towns or hubs where traders and vendors congregate. Approach them, and you will be given the option to access the Currency Exchange menu.

 

Select the Currencies You Want to Exchange: In the Currency Exchange menu, you'll see a list of available currency types that can be exchanged. This will include a variety of orbs, scrolls, and shards, each with their own exchange rate. Choose the currency you wish to exchange and the amount you want to convert.

 

Understand the Exchange Rates: The Currency Exchange system is built around exchange rates, and understanding these rates is critical to making the most out of the system. The rates will fluctuate depending on the availability and demand of specific currencies within the game's economy. You may find that some exchanges are more favorable than others, so be sure to monitor market trends and adjust your trading accordingly.

 

Execute the Exchange: Once you've selected the amount and type of currency you wish to exchange, confirm the transaction. The system will automatically deduct the currency you are offering and grant you the equivalent in the currency you're receiving. This is a straightforward process, but keep in mind that each exchange will likely have a small transaction fee or cost associated with it, such as a small percentage taken as a fee for the exchange.

 

Maximizing Your Currency Trades: While the Currency Exchange system is convenient, it's essential to be mindful of the game's economy. Different currencies have different values and will fluctuate in price based on demand. Here are some tips to maximize your exchanges:

Track the Market: Just like in real-world economies, the value of currencies in Path of Exile 2 will change over time. Track which currencies are in high demand, as these are likely to fetch better exchange rates. This can help you strategize when to trade.

Use Currency to Craft and cheap Poe 2 trade: Don't just exchange currency for the sake of trading. Make sure to use your exchanged currency to craft or upgrade valuable gear that you can sell to other players or use to boost your own progression.

Manage Your Currency Wisely: Always try to maintain a balance of different types of currency. Some currencies will be more useful at different stages of the game, so having a wide range of orbs, scrolls, and shards will help you handle various situations.

 

Conclusion

 

The Currency Exchange system in Path of Exile 2 is a revolutionary feature that streamlines the process of trading and managing your in-game wealth. By unlocking this system and using it efficiently, you can gain a significant advantage in the game's economy, allowing you to trade, craft, and upgrade your gear more effectively. Understanding the different types of currency, unlocking the system, and using it strategically will make your journey through Path of Exile 2 much more manageable and rewarding.

 

By tracking exchange rates, managing your currency wisely, and utilizing it for crafting and trading, you can navigate the game's vast world with greater ease and success. So, gear up, exile, and make your mark in the ever-evolving economy of Path of Exile 2!