One of the most fascinating parts of Path of Exile (PoE) is its currency system. Unlike most RPGs that rely on gold or coins, PoE uses a unique bartering economy built around crafting items. Every orb, shard, and scroll serves a purpose—not only in crafting but also in trading with NPCs and players. This makes currency both a gameplay tool and the foundation of the player-driven economy.
Because items vary in rarity and usefulness, their value fluctuates, leading to constantly shifting PoE currency exchange rates. For newcomers, this system can feel overwhelming and sometimes even predatory, as more experienced traders may try to exploit “green” players who don't know the true value of their drops. Fortunately, PoE's in-game ratio systems, vendor recipes, and online trading tools guide to make exchanges more transparent.
In this guide, we'll cover how PoE currency exchange rates work, what determines value, and some practical examples of popular orbs and their ratios.
What Affects PoE Currency Exchange Rates?
PoE's currency doesn't have fixed prices. Instead, value depends on a mix of in-game and community-driven factors:
· League economy – Temporary leagues usually have different supply/demand dynamics than Standard.
· Drop rarity – The less an item drops, the higher its value climbs.
· Vendor prices – NPC recipes establish a “floor” value for currency, preventing market chaos.
· Content updates – New mechanics or crafting changes can suddenly increase demand for certain orbs.
· Platform differences – PC, console, and trade websites often have different ratios due to player population.
Because of these factors, the same orb might be worth dramatically more in one league compared to another.
Examples of Popular PoE Currency and Their Ratios
Let's look at some of the most traded currencies and their typical values in Standard and Expedition leagues.
Exalted Orbs
· Use: Adds a new modifier to rare items; essential for endgame crafting.
· Rarity: Extremely rare, often considered the “premium currency.”
· Rates:
· ~1 Exalted = 124 Chaos (Expedition League)
· ~1 Exalted = 95 Chaos (Standard League)
· Tip: Don't waste Exalts on mediocre items; save them for high-value trades or crafting.
Chaos Orbs
· Use: Re-rolls rare items; serves as PoE's “main trading currency.”
· Accessibility: Fairly easy to obtain.
· Rates: Most prices in PoE are quoted in Chaos, making them the benchmark.
· Example: If Chaos → Exalted is 95:1, and Chaos → Mirror is 10,000:1, then a Mirror of Kalandra = ~100 Exalts.
Divine Orbs
· Use: Rerolls explicit modifiers on unique items, often making them more valuable.
· Rates:
· Standard League: 1 Divine = 40 Chaos
· Expedition League: 1 Divine = 46 Chaos
Regal Orbs
· Use: Upgrades magic items to rare while retaining current mods. Often used mid-way through crafting.
· Rates: ~20 Chaos in Standard.
· Note: Many players prefer to sell them for Chaos rather than use them directly.
Mirror of Kalandra
· Use: Copies a rare, non-unique, non-corrupted item.
· Rarity: One of the rarest items in the game.
· Rates: ~10,000 Chaos or ~100 Exalted in Standard.
Vendor Exchange Rates
Vendors act as stabilizers in PoE's economy. Their recipes prevent currency values from spiraling out of control, ensuring items retain a minimum worth.
For example:
· 3 Jeweller's Orbs = 1 Chromatic Orb
· 4 Jeweller's Orbs = 1 Orb of Fusing
· 2 Orbs of Scouring = 1 Orb of Regret (from Yeena, Act 2)
These vendor exchanges set a “hard minimum” for items. For instance, a Chromatic Orb should never sell for more than 3 Jeweller's Orbs, though players can sell it cheaper.
Masters and Bulk Currency
Certain Masters also sell currency in bulk, giving players an efficient way to convert their stock.
· Zana (Map Master): 20x Cartographer's Chisels = 12x Chaos Orbs
Selling currency in bulk trades can also be faster, especially when unloading stacks of items. While the bulk price is usually lower than single-item trading, it saves time and helps players gather large amounts of a specific orb quickly.
Using PoE Currency Calculators
The most convenient way to check up-to-date exchange rates is with online Path of Exile currency calculator tools. These allow you to:
1. Select the item you want to trade.
2. Choose the currency you want in return.
3. Set the league you're playing in.
4. Get the current ratio instantly.
⚠️ Always use trusted, legitimate PoE trading websites to avoid scams or outdated data.
Final Thoughts
PoE's currency system is more than just a replacement for gold—it's a living, breathing economy driven by players. Knowing the current exchange rates for Exalted Orbs, Chaos Orbs, Divine Orbs, and other currencies helps you trade fairly, avoid scams, and maximize your wealth.
Whether you're bartering with vendors, negotiating with players, or using online calculators, keeping up with ratios ensures you make smart trades in every league. With a little practice, you'll not only understand the value of each orb but also enjoy the thrill of participating in one of the most dynamic economies in gaming.