Matchup
Build vs Caitlyn
Build adapted to this matchup
Starting items
Core build
Standard
Anti AD
Anti AP
Other options
Power Spikes
Strength by game phase
Skarner
CaitlynCaitlyn's abilities
Passive, spells and ultimate
Every few basic attacks, or against a target she has trapped or netted, Caitlyn will fire a headshot dealing bonus damage that scales with her critical strike chance. On trapped or netted targets, Caitlyn's Headshot attack range is doubled.
Cooldowns
Cooldowns by spell rank
| Level | Q | W | E | R |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 10s | 0.5s | 16s | – |
| 6 | 8s | 0.5s | 16s | 1m30 |
| 9 | 6s | 0.5s | 16s | 1m30 |
| 11 | 6s | 0.5s | 16s | 1m30 |
| 16 | 6s | 0.5s | 12s | 1m30 |
| 18 | 6s | 0.5s | 8s | 1m30 |
Playing against Caitlyn
How to counter and exploit weaknesses
Caitlyn is the queen of early game thanks to her range (650) — she's weaker in mid game before her 3rd item.
Traps (W) are visible: don't walk over them, go around. They're often placed under turrets.
An ally can block her R (Ace in the Hole) by stepping in front — protect your wounded carry.
Engage in melee: Caitlyn is weak up close and her E has a long cooldown.
Source: op.gg + LTL Engine · Patch 16.9.1 · May 9, 2026