Earning medals in Helldivers 2 isn’t just about bragging rights—it’s also the key to unlocking gear, stratagems, and cosmetics that can really improve your overall loadout. While some players choose to buy Helldivers 2 medals to save time, there are plenty of efficient farming strategies if you prefer grinding in-game. Below are 11 smart methods that can help you stock up on medals without burning out.

1. Focus on High-Difficulty Missions

Higher-difficulty missions naturally yield better rewards, including medals. Once you’ve got a reliable squad, tackling difficulty 6 or above is one of the fastest ways to maximize medal income.

2. Prioritize Daily Orders

Daily orders reset regularly and often come with medal rewards on top of Super Credits. Completing them consistently can be surprisingly lucrative over time.

3. Chain Short Missions

Instead of committing to long campaigns, try spamming short missions with quick objectives. The time-to-reward ratio can outpace extended missions, especially on farming sessions.

4. Defend Against Automaton Waves

Automaton missions are known for spawning lots of enemies, but they also tend to drop more loot. Clearing them quickly with explosives and mechs can speed up medal farming.

5. Squad Coordination Is Key

Solo runs are possible, but coordinating with a squad dramatically increases survival rates and efficiency. A well-synced team can clear missions faster, boosting medal gain per hour.

6. Revisit Completed Campaigns

Don’t ignore older planets. Many of them refresh with events or invasions, offering repeatable medal rewards that newer missions might not.

7. Use Stratagem Loadouts for Farming

Tailor your loadouts with farming in mind. Ammo drops, heavy artillery, and support drones make farming runs smoother and more consistent.

8. Collect Every Resource Along the Way

While rushing objectives is efficient, taking time to pick up resources—including samples and supplies—adds long-term value. Some of these indirectly lead to medal rewards.

9. Watch for Seasonal Events

Events and limited-time modes often hand out extra medals. Keeping track of these can give you a big edge without having to grind endlessly.

10. Balance Medal Farming with Super Credits

Since both currencies matter, don’t neglect opportunities to stack up Super Credits. Some players even keep an eye on Helldivers 2 Super Credits for sale as an alternative to farming everything manually.

11. Consider External Options When Time Is Short

Not everyone has hours to grind. Communities like U4GM have become well-known in player circles for offering in-game items and currency options. While many stick to the grind, others see this as a convenient backup.

Farming medals in Helldivers 2 is all about balancing efficiency and enjoyment. Whether you prefer to grind missions, complete daily orders, or even explore external solutions, there’s no single best way—just the method that fits your time and playstyle. With these 11 strategies, you’ll steadily build up medals and unlock the best gear the game has to offer.