Which artifacts maximize Xiao’s DPS in Genshin Impact for Abyss?

Understanding Xiao’s DPS Mechanics

Xiao, the Vigilant Yaksha, is a premier Anemo Hypercarry in Genshin Impact, renowned for his devastating Plunging Attack playstyle. His entire damage output hinges on his Elemental Burst, Bane of All Evil, which infuses his attacks with Anemo and significantly boosts his jumping ability and Plunge Attack damage. Maximizing his DPS in the Spiral Abyss, therefore, revolves around ensuring consistent Burst uptime and amplifying his Plunge Attacks as much as possible.

When considering artifacts for Xiao, the primary goal is to enhance his Anemo damage, Critical stats, and Attack. Unlike some characters who benefit greatly from Elemental Mastery or Reaction damage, Xiao’s personal raw damage output is paramount. This guide will break down the best artifact sets, main stats, and substat priorities to help your Xiao conquer the toughest challenges the Abyss throws at you.

Top Artifact Sets for Xiao

1. 4-Piece Vermillion Hereafter

Introduced specifically for Xiao, the 4-piece Vermillion Hereafter set is generally his Best-in-Slot (BiS) option. Its 2-piece effect grants a standard +18% ATK. The 4-piece effect, Echoes of the Sundered World, is where it truly shines: after using an Elemental Burst, Xiao gains a 15% ATK increase. Furthermore, for the next 16 seconds, his ATK will increase by an additional 4% every time his HP decreases. This ATK increase can occur up to 4 times, for a maximum of 24% ATK. This effect synergizes perfectly with Xiao’s Burst, which continuously drains his HP, allowing him to quickly reach the maximum ATK bonus.

2. 4-Piece Desert Pavilion Chronicle

Desert Pavilion Chronicle is a strong contender, particularly in scenarios where the 4-piece Vermillion Hereafter’s full potential is harder to maintain. Its 2-piece effect provides a +15% Anemo DMG Bonus. The 4-piece effect, Swiftflow’s Cineton, increases Normal Attack SPD by 10% and, when Charged Attacks hit opponents, Normal, Charged, and Plunging Attack DMG is increased by 40% for 15 seconds. While the Normal Attack SPD is negligible for Xiao, the massive Plunge Attack DMG bonus makes it incredibly potent. Its activation condition is relatively easy to meet, offering consistent Plunge damage amplification.

3. 2-Piece Combinations (e.g., Gladiator’s Finale, Shimenawa’s Reminiscence, Viridescent Venerer, Vermillion Hereafter)

Prior to Vermillion Hereafter’s release, or if you haven’t farmed a good 4-piece set, 2-piece combinations are excellent transitional or even end-game options if substats are superior. The most common and effective combinations include:

• 2-Piece Gladiator’s Finale / Shimenawa’s Reminiscence + 2-Piece Viridescent Venerer: This gives you a potent +18% ATK and +15% Anemo DMG Bonus.
• 2-Piece Gladiator’s Finale / Shimenawa’s Reminiscence + 2-Piece Gladiator’s Finale / Shimenawa’s Reminiscence: Provides a flat +36% ATK, which is a solid damage boost given Xiao’s high scaling.
• 2-Piece Vermillion Hereafter + 2-Piece Viridescent Venerer: +18% ATK and +15% Anemo DMG Bonus, similar to the first combo but with potentially easier access to VH pieces.

The flexibility of 2-piece sets allows you to mix and match your best individual pieces to achieve optimal substats, which often outweighs the theoretical benefits of a weaker 4-piece set.

Artifact Main Stats Priority

For Xiao, the main stats on your artifacts are crucial for establishing a strong damage foundation. Prioritize these:

• Sands of Eon: ATK% (Always)
• Goblet of Eonothem: Anemo DMG Bonus% (Always)
• Circlet of Logos: CRIT Rate% or CRIT DMG%

Choosing between CRIT Rate and CRIT DMG on the Circlet depends on your overall stat balance. Aim for a 1:2 ratio of CRIT Rate to CRIT DMG (e.g., 70% CRIT Rate, 140% CRIT DMG). If your CRIT Rate is low (below 60-70%), opt for a CRIT Rate Circlet. If you have plenty of CRIT Rate from substats, a CRIT DMG Circlet will yield higher damage.

Artifact Substats Priority

Substats are where you fine-tune Xiao’s build. Prioritize them in this order:

1. CRIT Rate% / CRIT DMG% (Aim for a 1:2 ratio)
2. ATK%
3. Energy Recharge% (ER)
4. Flat ATK

Energy Recharge is vital for Xiao. His Elemental Burst costs 70 energy, and without sufficient ER or a dedicated Anemo battery (like Faruzan, Sucrose, or Jean), his Burst uptime will suffer significantly. A comfortable ER range is typically 120-140%, though this can be lower with a highly optimized Anemo battery. Monitor your Burst uptime in actual combat; if you struggle to get it back consistently, you may need more ER or a stronger battery.

Final Recommendations and Synergy

While 4-piece Vermillion Hereafter is theoretically Xiao’s best, the difference between a perfectly rolled 4-piece Vermillion and a perfectly rolled 4-piece Desert Pavilion Chronicle can be minimal, with DPC sometimes pulling ahead in certain team compositions or rotations due to its easier activation. The deciding factor often comes down to which set has better overall substats. Don’t be afraid to use a 2-piece ATK% + 2-piece Anemo DMG% combination if the individual pieces boast superior Critical and ATK% substats; substats often trump set bonuses.

Remember that Xiao thrives in teams where he has consistent energy generation, a shield or healer for survivability (especially with his HP drain), and ideally, Anemo RES Shred or further ATK buffs. Characters like Faruzan, Bennett, Zhongli, and Furina are common excellent supports that enable Xiao to maximize his Plunge Attack damage output in the Spiral Abyss. Always test your build in practice to see what works best for your specific playstyle and team composition.