Resource Location

Subnautica 2 Copper Location: Early Game Farming Guide

Copper is primarily found in limestone outcrops in the Safe Shallows (35–40% drop rate). It's one of the most important early-game resources — used in batteries, wiring kits, computer chips, and base power. Farm limestone outcrops in a loop pattern for efficiency.

Guide Steps

Primary source: Limestone outcrops

Limestone outcrops are the main copper source. Found on the seafloor in the Safe Shallows. Copper drop rate is 35–40%. Each outcrop drops either copper or titanium. A 10-minute farming loop in the Safe Shallows yields approximately 3–5 copper.

Best farming biome: Safe Shallows

Circle the perimeter of the Safe Shallows, staying in 5–15m depth. Limestone outcrops respawn over time, so you can farm the same route repeatedly. Mark copper-rich spots with beacons for efficient return trips.

Secondary source: Kelp Forest

Limestone outcrops also spawn in the Kelp Forest, often near the base of creepvine stalks. Higher predator risk but similar drop rates. Good for combining copper runs with creepvine sample collection.

Copper usage priority

Spend copper in this order: (1) Batteries for scanner and tools, (2) Wiring kits for Habitat Builder, (3) Computer chips for advanced equipment, (4) Solar panels for base power. Don't waste early copper on decorative base items.

Farming efficiency tip

Use a Seaglide to cover more ground quickly. Mark a loop route with beacons: Start at your base → follow the Safe Shallows/Kelp Forest border → return with a full inventory. A good loop takes 8–12 minutes and nets 4–8 copper.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the best place to find copper?

The Safe Shallows. Limestone outcrops here have a 35–40% copper drop rate, and there are no predators to worry about.

How much copper do I need early game?

At minimum: 1 for scanner battery, 1 for Habitat Builder (wiring kit), 1 for computer chip, 1 for solar panel. Farm 8–10 copper in your first hour to cover all early needs.

Do limestone outcrops respawn?

Yes, outcrops respawn over time. You can farm the same route repeatedly. Respawning takes several in-game days.