Matchup
Build vs Caitlyn
Build adapted to this matchup
Starting items
Core build
Standard
Summoner spells
63%
21%Anti AD
Anti AP
DPS
Other options
Domination
Hail of Blades
Sudden Impact
Grisly Mementos
Relentless Hunter
Precision
Legend: Alacrity
Triumph
Power Spikes
Strength by game phase
Xin Zhao
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