Rotary Encoder in Arc Raiders: Keep or Sell?

What is the Rotary Encoder?

The Rotary Encoder is a Rare item in Arc Raiders. Its main characteristics are:

• Rarity: Rare

• Weight: 1.5

• Stack size: 3

• Sell price: 3,000 coins

• Source: Mostly found while scavenging, particularly in zones like Exodus

• Recyclable: Yes, into crafting materials

In-game, it’s primarily used for crafting and certain quests. You can also sell it for a decent amount of coins if you don’t need it. The choice between keeping and selling usually depends on your play style and current crafting needs.

How Useful is the Rotary Encoder in Practice?

The practical value of the Rotary Encoder comes from two main aspects: recycling for materials and quest requirements.

Recycling

If you choose to recycle a Rotary Encoder, you get:

• 2 × Electrical Components

• 2 × Processors

These are mid-tier crafting materials used in several items, including weapons and mods. Many players find that recycling is a reliable way to stockpile components, especially if you are running out of processors, which are often in demand for upgrading gear.

Quest Usage

The Rotary Encoder is required in at least one quest, "With A View", which means you cannot completely dispose of all of them without potentially blocking quest progression. In practice, most players keep at least one or two on hand to ensure they can complete the quest without having to grind for new ones later.

Should You Sell the Rotary Encoder?

The sell price is 3,000 coins, which is moderate. Selling them is a valid choice if you:

• Need quick cash for buying weapons, mods, or resources

• Already have enough processors and electrical components

• Don’t plan on crafting items that require the Rotary Encoder in the near future

However, experienced players often suggest holding onto at least one. The reason is that the crafting system in Arc Raiders can be unpredictable. Sometimes, you might find yourself short on processors for a new blueprint or crafting recipe, and having a few Rotary Encoders in reserve can save you a lot of time.

How Many Should You Keep?

A practical rule of thumb based on player behavior is:

• 1-2 for quests: Always keep at least one for “With A View.”

• Optional recycling stock: Keep an additional 1-2 if you plan on crafting items that need processors.

If you are thinking about whether to buy Equalizer blueprint, having spare Rotary Encoders for crafting related components can help you prepare without last-minute scavenging.

Where to Find Rotary Encoders

Rotary Encoders are most reliably scavenged from areas like Exodus. Experienced players recommend prioritizing these zones when farming rare materials. The item doesn’t appear frequently, so efficient farming involves clearing the area thoroughly and checking containers or dropped loot from enemies.

Recycling vs. Selling: What Players Do

Here’s a breakdown of what I’ve noticed in community behavior:

1. Early Game: Sell extra Rotary Encoders to build coin reserves. You’re more likely to need money for weapons and mods than processors early on.

2. Mid Game: Start holding one or two for crafting needs. Players who ignore recycling often run into shortages of electrical components or processors.

3. Late Game: Keep a small stockpile. Rotary Encoders are more valuable as crafting bottlenecks in higher-level gear upgrades.

In practice, most experienced players will recycle some, sell others, and keep at least one for quests, balancing immediate needs against long-term utility.

Quick Tips for Managing Rotary Encoders

• Don’t overstock: Keeping 5+ is usually unnecessary unless you are stockpiling for crafting several blueprints.

• Track your quests: Make sure you have at least one before starting “With A View.”

• Plan recycling for processors: If you notice you’re low on processors, recycle your extras instead of selling them.

• Coin boost consideration: If you need quick coins for something specific, selling can be justified, but it’s rarely a huge priority.

Keep or Sell?

Here’s a simple summary based on player experience:

• Keep at least one for quests.

• Recycle extras if you need electrical components or processors.

• Sell only when coin gain is more useful than crafting resources.

• Plan ahead if you intend to buy Equalizer blueprint or craft high-tier items.

The Rotary Encoder isn’t the rarest or most expensive item, but it’s versatile enough to be worth managing carefully rather than selling blindly. By balancing recycling, quest needs, and coin requirements, you can maximize its utility without cluttering your inventory.

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