CS:GO Ranks in 2023

Ranks in online multiplayer games are pretty confusing. Some games have diamond as the highest rank, while others have something like Supreme Master First Class which isn't even the highest. If you're a CS:GO player, chances are you instantly recognized the second example we just gave.

Now, CS:GO's ranking system is split into six types. Those tiers are Silver, Gold Nova, Guardian, Eagle, SMFC, and Global Elite. Additionally, some of these types also have multiple tiers, with higher tiers indicating a higher rank. Naturally, professional players will most commonly be found in the very highest rank in CS:GO, which is Global Elite.

We'll be going through everything related to ranks in CS:GO to ensure you're able to understand the game's ranking system completely.

How Do the Ranks Work in CS:GO

In CS:GO, ranks represent a player's skill level and progression within the competitive matchmaking system. Players start with no rank and need to win a series of placement matches to receive their initial rank. From there, players earn or lose rank points based on their performance in competitive matches. 

Naturally, wins increase rank points, while losses decrease them. The more matches a player wins consecutively, or back to back, the faster they can progress to higher ranks. In the same way, losing matches or performing poorly can result in rank demotion. 

The ranking system uses a hidden matchmaking rating (MMR) to pair players of similar skill levels together. As players climb the ranks, the matches become more challenging, and they are matched against more skilled opponents.

What Are the CS:GO Ranks

There are currently 18 ranks. Below, we'll be listing down all of the ranks in the game currently, starting from the lowest and ending with the highest: 

1. Silver 1
2. Silver 2
3. Silver 3
4. Silver 4
5. Silver Elite
6. Silver Elite Master
7. Gold Nova 1 
8. Gold Nova 2
9. Gold Nova 3
10. Gold Nova Master
11. Master Guardian 1
12. Master Guardian 2
13. Master Guardian Elite
14. Distinguished Master Guardian
15. Legendary Eagle
16. Legendary Eagle Master
17. Supreme Master First Class
18. Global Elite.

Rank Descriptions

Now that you know what the ranks in CS:GO are, we'll be giving a short description of all the different rank types. This way, you'll be able to identify how much work you need to do if you want to go up to the next rank.

Silver 1 to Silver Elite Master

The Silver 1 to Silver Elite Master ranks in CS:GO represent the lower skill levels of the competitive matchmaking system. Players in these ranks are often beginners or still developing their gameplay mechanics and strategies. If you find yourself in one of these ranks, we highly recommend you go through our CS:GO complete guide for beginners.

As players progress through the ranks, they gradually improve their understanding of game mechanics, map knowledge, and teamwork. In Silver Elite Master, players start to exhibit better overall gameplay and understanding of the game mechanics. However, coordination and strategic decision-making may still be limited. 

Overall, the Silver ranks are a stepping stone for players to build their foundation in CS:GO before progressing to higher skill tiers.

Gold Nova 1 to Gold Nova Master

The Gold Nova 1 to Gold Nova Master ranks in CS:GO represent a mid tier skill level within the competitive matchmaking system. Players in these ranks have developed a better understanding of game mechanics, map layouts, and strategic aspects of the game. 

Gold Nova 1 is a step up from the Silver ranks, where players start to demonstrate improved aim, game sense, and teamwork. As players progress through the Gold Nova ranks, they become more proficient in their ability to control recoil, make effective callouts, and coordinate with their teammates. 

While still considered an intermediate skill level, players in these ranks possess the potential to continue climbing the competitive ladder.

Master Guardian 1 to Master Guardian Elite

In these three ranks, you'll find players who actually try to win games. Master Guardian 1 marks the beginning of the advanced skill tier, where players exhibit refined aim, excellent map awareness, and more strategic gameplay. As players progress through the Master Guardian ranks, they showcase superior game sense, positioning, and coordination with their team. 

By the time they reach Master Guardian Elite, players possess a deep understanding of the game's mechanics, including utility usage, effective rotations, and advanced tactics. These ranks require consistent performance and demonstrate a higher level of skill and experience, positioning players as formidable opponents within the CS:GO community.

Distinguished Master Guardian to Legendary Eagle Master

Now you will find players who sweat and try so hard to win games. Distinguished Master Guardian marks the entry into this advanced tier, where players demonstrate a deep understanding of game dynamics. As players progress through the ranks, they exhibit advanced map knowledge, effective utility usage, and the ability to adapt to different situations. 

The Legendary Eagle Master rank represents the pinnacle of this tier, where players possess a high level of skill, including sharp aim, game sense, and strategic decision-making. These players are highly experienced, capable of outmaneuvering opponents, and contribute significantly to their team's success.

Supreme Master First Class and The Global Elite

If you have reached those ranks, then congratulation you're in the highest CS:GO in-game ranks, the Supreme Master First Class and The Global Elite ranks in CS:GO represent the highest echelons of skill and expertise within the competitive matchmaking system.

The Global Elite rank especially represents the pinnacle of CS:GO competitive play. Players in this rank are exceptionally skilled, demonstrating unparalleled aim, decision-making, and game sense. They have a deep understanding of every aspect of the game, including economy management, positioning, and utility usage then.

If you've reached this rank, then it's high time to go on other platforms such as FACEIT, ESEA, or even Esportal and get the game to become even more competitive for you. If you haven't, then we highly recommend you look into hiring a professional level CS:GO player from Eloking to help you get there.

What rank is s1mple in CS:GO?

s1mple currently has more than 4000 ELO in FACEIT (which is better than The Global Elite) and he has won the PGL Major Championship.  Not to forget, he was ranked the best player of 2018 and 2021 in the esports scene.

Basically, s1mple is higher than your average Global Elite player. This should come as a surprise to no one, as he's considered by many to be the best CS:GO player of all time.