Hydro Character Comparison

Yelan vs Xingqiu

Xingqiu applies more Hydro and provides defensive utility; Yelan deals more personal damage and buffs the active character. Most endgame teams still prefer Xingqiu for reaction consistency, but Yelan is better in teams that already have a shielder.

VS
Yelan
VS
Xingqiu

Hydro Application

Yelan
Xingqiu
Strong but single-target focused
✓ Xingqiu
Highest off-field Hydro application rate in the game
Burst-based with a 15-second duration
— Even
Burst-based, 20-second cooldown, extends at C2

Damage

Yelan
Xingqiu
Higher personal damage plus a ramping team damage buff (up to 50%)
✓ Yelan
Lower personal damage, no team buff
Scales on HP
— Even
Scales on ATK and Hydro DMG

Defensive Utility

Yelan
Xingqiu
None — only a mobility skill
✓ Xingqiu
Damage reduction and interruption resistance
No ER requirement issues with a second Hydro
✓ Yelan
Needs 180-200% ER as solo Hydro

🎯 Verdict

Build Xingqiu first — he is free from events, applies more Hydro, and his damage reduction is genuinely valuable. Add Yelan when you need a second Hydro sub-DPS for the other Abyss half, or when your carry already has a shielder and wants her ramping damage buff.

Which One Should You Choose?

Build Xingqiu first — he is free from events, applies more Hydro, and his damage reduction is genuinely valuable. Add Yelan when you need a second Hydro sub-DPS for the other Abyss half, or when your carry already has a shielder and wants her ramping damage buff.

Consider your account when deciding. Look at the units and weapons you already own, the teams you already have built, and the content you struggle with most. Both Yelan and Xingqiu are strong — the right choice depends on which fills a bigger gap in your roster.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Yelan or Xingqiu better?

There is no universal answer — Yelan wins in Hydro Application and Damage and Defensive Utility scenarios where their kit shines, while Xingqiu is stronger in others. Use the comparison tables above to match each option's strengths to your specific needs.

Which one is better for F2P players?

Both options are viable at base constellation with their F2P alternatives. Check each option's dedicated guide for the best budget builds and teams to see which one fits your account's current roster.