If you’ve been playing Arc Raiders, you’ve probably come across the Processor, one of the rarer materials in the game. Many players are unsure about how to get it, what to use it for, and whether it’s worth saving or recycling. This guide explains the Processor from the perspective of an experienced player, focusing on practical advice rather than hype.
What is a Processor?
In general, the Processor is classified as a rare Topside Material. Its main use is crafting, but it can also be recycled into other useful components. Most players encounter Processors in Technological zones, which are areas where higher-tier loot tends to appear.
A single Processor weighs 0.2 units and stacks up to 5, which is important to keep in mind when managing inventory. Players often prioritize Processors because they are needed for several mid-to-high-level crafting recipes.
Where Can I Find Processors?
Processors are mainly found in Technological zones, though the drop rates are usually low. Common sources include:
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Server Racks
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Recording Panels
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Oscilloscopes
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Computers
Most players focus on scavenging these items repeatedly, especially during missions or when clearing Technological zones. Processors are also recycled from other items, which can be a reliable secondary source. For example, you can salvage older gear like Combat Mk. 3 variants or Tactical Mk. 3 gear to get Processors back.
Some NPCs, like Celeste, sell Processors in limited quantities—typically 5 per day in exchange for 10 Assorted Seeds. Most players who need Processors quickly check Celeste daily as part of their routine.
How Do Processors Work in Crafting?
Processors are used in a variety of crafting recipes. In general, combining them with Advanced Electrical Components or Crude Explosives produces higher-tier weapons and gear. Here’s a breakdown of common uses:
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Combat Mk. 3 Gear – Aggressive, Flanking, Tactical, and other variants usually require 3 Processors along with 2 Advanced Electrical Components. Most players craft these for specific combat roles.
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Looting Mk. 3 Gear – Some variations are craftable with Processors. They focus on resource collection or survivability.
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Trigger ‘Nade – This consumable requires 1 Processor and 2 Crude Explosives.
In practice, most players save Processors until they can craft multiple items at once, rather than using them immediately. This is because the crafting output is generally more efficient in bulk.
Should I Recycle Processors?
Recycling is a key part of resource management in Arc Raiders. A Processor can be recycled into 1 Wire and 1 Plastic Part, while salvaging items that contain Processors can return 2 Plastic Parts.
In general, players recycle Processors when they need components for other crafting projects or when inventory space is limited. Most experienced players only recycle when it makes sense for their current crafting plan because Processors are otherwise hard to replace.
How to Use Processors Strategically
For most players, the key to using Processors effectively is planning. Here are some practical tips:
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Bulk Crafting: Wait until you have enough materials for several crafts. This reduces trips to Technological zones and maximizes efficiency.
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Prioritize Gear You Use: Don’t craft a Combat Mk. 3 variant just because you can. Focus on the ones that fit your play style.
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Recycle Older Gear: If you’ve upgraded your Mk. 3 gear or no longer need certain variants, recycle them for Processors and other materials.
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Daily NPC Checks: Buying a small number from Celeste can save time, especially if you are missing just a few to complete a recipe. For some players, it’s also a way to keep inventory topped up without farming.
Some players also consider external options to get materials faster, which might lead them to buy arc raiders coins. This can help in acquiring resources quicker if you prefer to spend real-world time less on grinding. In general, this approach is optional and depends on how you balance farming versus crafting time.
Common Mistakes with Processors
Even experienced players sometimes mishandle Processors. Common mistakes include:
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Crafting Without a Plan: Using Processors on gear you rarely use often leads to shortages later.
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Ignoring Salvage: Not salvaging older or unused items can waste a valuable source of Processors.
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Overpacking Inventory: Because Processors stack only to 5, carrying too many in separate stacks can clog your inventory. Most players keep a dedicated slot for rare materials to avoid this.
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Underestimating Recycling: Not realizing that some high-tier gear can be broken down for multiple Processors can make farming more tedious.
Processors are a rare but manageable resource in Arc Raiders. Most players treat them as strategic components rather than everyday loot. By knowing where to find them, how to use them, and when to recycle, you can maintain a steady supply without excessive grinding. Planning crafting and recycling carefully, checking daily NPC stock, and occasionally supplementing with coins if needed allows you to keep your gear optimized for missions.
Understanding the value of Processors in practice—not just in theory—is what separates casual players from those who maintain high efficiency across multiple missions.
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