Since the release of The Ascension update, Phasmophobia has transformed its equipment system, introducing tiered upgrades for all investigative tools. These tiers unlock as players level up, enhancing item effectiveness and usability. This guide breaks down every item’s tiers, upgrade costs, and functionalities to help you optimize your ghost-hunting strategy.
Understanding Item Tiers
Items now range from Tier 1 (basic) to Tier 3 (advanced), with higher tiers offering significant improvements. Most upgrades require in-game currency and specific player levels. Tier 1 items are often weaker versions of their pre-Ascension counterparts, while Tier 3 tools provide game-changing advantages.
Complete Item Tier List
| Item | Tier | Unlock Level | Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flashlight | 1 | Default | $30 | Dim yellowish-green glare; minimal visibility. |
| 2 | 19 | $3,000 | Pre-upgrade default brightness. | |
| 3 | 25 | $3,000 | Wide, bright beam for broad coverage. | |
| EMF Reader | 1 | Default | $45 | Basic EMF Level 5 detection. |
| 2 | 20 | $3,000 | Pre-upgrade default model. | |
| 3 | 52 | $4,500 | Displays multiple readings + distances. | |
| Photo Camera | 1 | 3 | – | Basic 3-star photo capability. |
| 2 | 25 | $3,000 | Improved photo quality. | |
| 3 | 70 | $5,000 | Professional-grade shots. | |
| D.O.T.S Projector | 1 | Default | – | Static, distracting lasers. |
| 2 | 29 | $3,000 | Standard laser grid. | |
| 3 | 60 | $3,000 | Rotates to cover entire rooms. | |
| Crucifix | 1 | Default | – | Basic wooden cross; small radius. |
| 2 | 37 | $3,000 | Larger hunt-prevention radius. | |
| 3 | 90 | $20,000 | Prevents multiple/cursed hunts. | |
| UV Light | 1 | Default | – | Basic footprint detection. |
| 2 | 21 | $3,000 | Wider detection range. | |
| 3 | 56 | $2,000 | Longest UV evidence range. | |
| Spirit Box | 1 | Default | – | Basic radio; poor responses. |
| 2 | 27 | $3,000 | Pre-upgrade default model. | |
| 3 | 54 | $3,000 | Wider frequency range. | |
| Salt | 1 | Default | – | 2 uses; tracks footprints. |
| 2 | 43 | $2,500 | Leaves lines instead of piles. | |
| 3 | 68 | $5,000 | Black salt (3 uses); slows ghosts. |
Key Upgrades to Prioritize
1. Crucifix (Tier 3)
Unlocked at level 90 for $20,000, this upgrade is costly but critical for high-difficulty maps. It prevents multiple hunts and counters cursed hunts, drastically improving team survival rates.
2. Flashlight (Tier 3)
Available at level 25, this tier illuminates large areas, making it easier to navigate dark buildings and spot ghost interactions.
3. EMF Reader (Tier 3)
Its multi-reading display (unlocked at level 52) helps pinpoint ghost activity faster, saving time during investigations.
As someone who’s spent countless nights (and jump-scares) in Phasmophobia, here’s my unsolicited advice: never underestimate Tier 3 Salt. That black salt isn’t just for footprints—it once saved my team during a chaotic Deogen hunt on Maple Lodge. We’d forgotten the Crucifix, but tossing salt at the ghost’s feet slowed it just enough for us to sprint to the truck. Moral of the story? Sometimes the “boring” upgrades pull off the most clutch plays. Now go out there, level up, and try not to scream… too loud.
– zubyan, a caffeine-fueled ghost hunter who still checks closets twice.
