Every Minecraft player knows that enchantments can turn an ordinary weapon into something extraordinary. Whether you’re mining deep underground or battling hordes of zombies under a full moon, choosing the right enchantment can make all the difference.
One of the most intriguing—and often misunderstood—enchantments in the game is Smite. It’s not as flashy as Sharpness or as mysterious as Bane of Arthropods, but Smite plays a crucial role in helping players conquer undead enemies.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what Smite does in Minecraft, how it works, and when to use it for the best results. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned adventurer, this article will help you make smarter choices with your enchanted weapons.
What Is Smite in Minecraft?
The Basics
Smite is a weapon enchantment that increases the amount of damage you deal to undead mobs. These include some of the most common—and dangerous—enemies in Minecraft, such as:
-
Zombies
-
Skeletons
-
Wither Skeletons
-
Strays
-
Husks
-
Phantoms
-
Drowned
-
The Wither boss
-
Zombified Piglins
The Smite enchantment has five levels (Smite I–V). Each level adds an extra 2.5 points of damage to undead mobs. That might not sound like much, but at Smite V, your weapon can deal 12.5 extra damage per hit—which is enough to make quick work of most undead foes.
How to Get the Smite Enchantment
There are a few reliable ways to get Smite on your weapon:
-
Enchanting Table – Combine a sword or axe with experience levels and lapis lazuli to roll for Smite.
-
Enchanted Books – Find or trade for Smite-enchanted books, then use an anvil to apply them.
-
Villager Trades – Librarian villagers sometimes offer Smite books for emeralds.
-
Loot Chests – Occasionally found in dungeons, temples, or other structures.
💡 Pro tip: Smite cannot be combined with Sharpness or Bane of Arthropods on the same weapon. You’ll need to choose one. If you’re fighting mostly undead mobs, Smite is the better choice.
When Should You Use Smite?
1. Fighting Undead Mobs
Smite is the go-to enchantment when you’re taking on undead-heavy areas—think strongholds, dungeons, or nether fortresses. Players often equip a Smite weapon just for these battles.
2. Battling the Wither
If you’re preparing to summon and defeat the Wither boss, Smite is your best friend. The extra damage stacks up quickly and helps shorten one of the game’s toughest fights.
3. Hard Mode Survival
In Hard Mode or Hardcore Mode, stronger mobs mean every hit counts. Having Smite on your sword or axe can save you valuable time (and hearts).
Smite vs. Sharpness: Which Is Better?
This is one of the most common debates among players. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Enchantment | Damage Bonus | Affects | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smite | +2.5 per level | Undead mobs only | Fighting zombies, skeletons, and the Wither |
| Sharpness | +1 per level (1.25 in Java Edition) | All mobs | General combat |
| Bane of Arthropods | +2.5 per level | Spiders, cave spiders, bees, silverfish, endermites | Niche uses |
If you mainly explore areas filled with zombies and skeletons, go for Smite. For everyday exploration and PvP, Sharpness offers more flexibility.
Fun Fact: Smite Works on Axes Too
Many players overlook that Smite can also be applied to axes. In Minecraft: Java Edition, axes are viable weapons, so applying Smite to an axe gives you a heavy-hitting alternative to swords—especially useful if you’re also using your axe for chopping wood.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Using Smite in PvP – Smite doesn’t affect other players, so it’s wasted in multiplayer combat.
-
Combining Smite and Sharpness – You can’t have both. Always choose based on your goals.
-
Ignoring the Wither Advantage – Smite V drastically reduces Wither battle time—don’t miss out!
FAQs About Smite in Minecraft
1. What mobs does Smite work on?
It works on all undead mobs, including zombies, skeletons, phantoms, drowned, husks, and the Wither.
2. Does Smite work on players?
No. It only affects undead mobs, not other players or animals.
3. Can you have Smite and Sharpness on the same sword?
No. You can only apply one of these three: Smite, Sharpness, or Bane of Arthropods.
4. Is Smite better than Sharpness?
It depends on the situation. Smite is better for fighting undead mobs, while Sharpness is better for general use.
5. Does Smite affect Endermen or Creepers?
No. Smite only increases damage against undead enemies.
Conclusion
Smite might not be the flashiest enchantment in Minecraft, but it’s one of the most useful when facing the undead. Whether you’re clearing out a zombie-infested village or taking on the mighty Wither, Smite turns your weapon into a powerful tool for survival.
Next time you’re at the enchanting table, think strategically—because the right enchantment could mean the difference between victory and defeat.