The Best Butterfly Knife in CSGO/CS2 – Skins, Cases, and How to Get One
The Butterfly Knife is one of the most prestigious and sought-after weapons in CS2. Whether you're searching for the best CS2 Butterfly Knife, the most valuable skins, or the CS2 best case to get a Butterfly Knife, knowing your options is key. A casual player looking to upgrade their inventory, a savvy trader hunting for lucrative deals, or a dedicated collector chasing the rarest and most prestigious skins must choose the right Butterfly Knife to make an impact. These knives are more than just weapons; they symbolize status, exclusivity, and individuality in CS2.
Butterfly knives are hands down some of the coolest in CSGO, thanks to their slick flipping animation that sets them apart from the rest. Their smooth movements and sharp design make them as fun to inspect as they are in-game. They are also quite rare, which makes them a desirable target for collectors and dealers; some even sell for hundreds of dollars!
This guide will rank the best CSGO Butterfly Knife skins and explore the best cases to get a Butterfly Knife and the most effective methods to add one to your inventory. Continue reading to explore each skin's unique aesthetic, market value and how you can add one to your inventory.
The Popularity of Butterfly Knives in CS2
Butterfly Knives in CS2 aren't just weapons; they're a flex! Since they dropped in the Operation Breakout update in 2014, they have been among the most desired knives in the game. Their seamless, fashionable flipping animation is on another level, which makes them far more entertaining than any other melee weapon in CS2.
Why Are Butterfly Knives So Popular?
The main reason people love Butterfly Knives is their unique animation. That slick flipping motion makes them super satisfying to inspect and show off mid-game.
Another reason they're so sought after is their rarity. Unlike regular knives, Butterfly Knives only drop from certain cases, and even then, the chances of unboxing one are extremely low. That rarity drives up their price, making them some of the most expensive knives in the game.
Butterfly Knife Skins: A Collector's Dream
Valve has released various Butterfly Knife skins, from battle-hardened classics to high-end collector's items. If you're looking for the best Butterfly Knife in CS2, choosing the right skin is just as important as finding the best case to get a Butterfly Knife. Because of their popularity, Butterfly Knives consistently sell for top dollar, making them a solid investment for traders and collectors. Some of these skins have even shot up in value over time, turning into long-term moneymakers.
The Connection to High-Skill Players
Butterfly Knives also have the reputation of being a high-skill player's knife. It's not unusual to find someone flipping their Butterfly Knife during warm-ups, exercising their techniques before the game begins; many pro players and streamers favor them.
A Knife That Stands Out
If you want a knife that will turn heads in CS2, the Butterfly Knife is the way to go. Whether you're trying to upgrade your inventory, make a smart trade, or just flex on your opponents, this knife is a statement piece that never goes out of style.
Top 10 Best Butterfly Knives in CSGO/CS2
Here is the list of the best Butterfly Knives in Counter-Strike, featuring some of the most iconic, rare, and visually stunning skins available:
Flavor Text: "Getting lost in its color can prove fatal"
Release Date: March 16, 2017
Quality: Covert
Starting Price: $2,500+
Obtainable From: Spectrum Case
The Doppler series includes some of the most luxurious Butterfly Knife skins, with the Ruby and Black Pearl as crown jewels. Under close inspection, the Ruby variant glows almost jewel-like with a strong, deep red hue. Its strong yet understated look for high-end collectors and dealers has made it a statement item. Conversely, the Black Pearl variant has a sophisticated, dark finish that shimmers with hints of deep purple and blue under the light, using a quite different technique. These Doppler variants are incredibly rare and have a prestigious reputation within the CS2 skin community.
Flavor Text: "This isn't just a weapon, it's a conversation piece - Imogen, Arms Dealer In Training"
Release Date: July 1, 2014
Quality: Covert
Starting Price: $2,200+
Obtainable From: Operation Breakout Weapon Case
An all-time classic, the Butterfly Knife | Fade is easily identifiable with its smooth transition from golden yellow to deep purple. This knife's exquisite simplicity makes it appealing; it has a polished, high-end design that has stayed a fan favorite since its debut. The Fade is unique because of its pattern changes; the ultimate prize is a full 100% Fade. It is one of the most sought-after finishes in the game since the knife is visually spectacular, the greater the fade percentage.
Flavor Text: "A blade that gleams with an otherworldly green"
Release Date: September 22, 2021
Quality: Covert
Starting Price: $2,800+
Obtainable From: Operation Riptide Case
The Gamma Doppler Emerald is among the rarest and most prestigious Butterfly Knife skins. Its stunning, deep green finish resembles the brilliance of a polished gemstone, making it instantly recognizable in any inventory. The sleek color transitions and glassy effect give it an otherworldly glow that few other knives can match. Since this skin has no alternative phases or variations, every Emerald has the same flawless green appearance, making it one of the most exclusive skins ever released.
Flavor Text: "The blade is made of many colors, but soon it all looks red"
Release Date: March 16, 2017
Quality: Covert
Starting Price: $1,800+
Obtainable From: Spectrum 2 Case
The Butterfly Knife | Marble Fade is one of the most eye-catching and dynamic skins with a dazzling mix of red, blue, and yellow swirls. Its high-gloss, polished surface makes it shine under different lighting conditions, making it a dream skin for players who love vibrant cosmetics. Some variations, such as the Fire & Ice pattern with minimal yellow, are even more desirable due to their more profound contrast between fiery red and electric blue. The randomness of the marbled pattern ensures that no two knives are exactly the same, adding a unique charm to every Marble Fade.
Flavor Text: "Like the tiger it is rare... like the tiger it is deadly..."
Release Date: March 16, 2017
Quality: Covert
Starting Price: $1,500+
Obtainable From: Spectrum Case
Few knives balance aggression and style perfectly, quite like the Butterfly Knife | Tiger Tooth. Its golden base is complemented by bold black tiger stripes, creating a sharp and fierce aesthetic. The reflective surface gives the blade a refined, polished look, making it one of the cleanest finishes among Butterfly Knives. Unlike some skins that rely on chaotic patterns or intricate designs, the Tiger Tooth embraces simplicity with its sharp contrast and smooth shine.
Flavor Text: "A blade that tells tales of countless battles"
Release Date: July 1, 2014
Quality: Covert
Starting Price: $1,200+
Obtainable From: Operation Breakout Weapon Case
The Butterfly Knife | Slaughter is known for its deep red finish and intricate silver streaks that create a striking, almost battle-worn effect. The best part of the Slaughter skin lies in its pattern variations, as specific blade designs, such as those that resemble diamond shapes, angel wings, or hearts, are considered far rarer and more valuable. Every Slaughter has a slightly different pattern, adding uniqueness that keeps collectors searching for the perfect one.
Flavor Text: "Some knives tell a story; this one tells a legend"
Release Date: September 22, 2021
Quality: Covert
Starting Price: $800+
Obtainable From: Dreams & Nightmares Case
The Butterfly Knife | Lore is inspired by the legendary AWP | Dragon Lore, featuring an intricate golden pattern over a rich, deep gold base. The blade's medieval-style engravings create a mystery that gives it the appearance of a weapon coming from a fantasy world. Among gamers who seek opulence and battle-ready, the Lore is popular because of the combination of rich gold craftsmanship and a crisp, royal look. Its reflective surface gives it extra appeal under different lighting conditions, making it a highly sought-after addition to any inventory.
Flavor Text: "Programmed for perfection"
Release Date: September 22, 2021
Quality: Covert
Starting Price: $900+
Obtainable From: Operation Riptide Case
The futuristic-looking Butterfly Knife | Autotronic looks aggressive and almost robotic and combines sleek metallic silver with vivid red accents. This skin's main defining characteristic is the cut-out areas along the blade, highlighting the underlying metal and giving the skin a high-tech prototype appearance. This knife has an unusual, high-performance look from the dramatic contrast between the matte red and polished steel.
Flavor Text: "A little color never hurt anyone"
Release Date: July 1, 2014
Quality: Covert
Starting Price: $1,100+
Obtainable From: Operation Breakout Weapon Case
The Butterfly Knife | Case Hardened is a true collector's knife known for its randomized blue and gold patterns that make every single one unique. Some knives have a dominant gold appearance, while others feature an intense blue gem pattern, considered the rarest and most valuable variation. The more blue the knife has, the higher its demand among traders. Since no two Case Hardened knives look the same, players are always on the hunt for the perfect Blue Gem, making this one of the most exciting skins to own in terms of collectibility.
Flavor Text: "Sleek, simple, deadly"
Release Date: September 22, 2021
Quality: Covert
Starting Price: $850+
Obtainable From: Dreams & Nightmares Case
The Butterfly Knife | Black Laminate embraces stealth and minimalism, featuring an elegant matte-black blade and handle with subtle gray highlights. Unlike other flashy knives, the Black Laminate has a tactical and deadly appearance, making it a favorite for players who prefer a clean and understated aesthetic. The dark, non-reflective finish makes it one of the best choices for those who want a low-profile, military-inspired look, and it pairs well with darker loadouts.
Which Butterfly Knife Skin Should You Pick?
Your budget, taste, and whether you wish something to collect, invest in, or just flex in-game will determine the appropriate Butterfly Knife skin. While some gamers seek a solid-looking knife without breaking their budgets, others search for the rarest and most costly choices.
High-End Collector's Choices
If you want a knife that screams exclusivity, Doppler Ruby, Gamma Doppler Emerald, or Crimson Web are the best of the best. These are some of the rarest skins in the game, and owning one instantly puts you in elite territory.
The Best Balance of Price and Aesthetics
For those who want a stunning Butterfly Knife without spending a fortune, Marble Fade, Slaughter, or Tiger Tooth are perfect middle-ground choices. These knives still feel premium but are more reasonably priced than the top-tier collector skins.
Budget-friendly but Still Stylish
Blue Steel, Damascus Steel, or Night are great options for a Butterfly Knife without overspending. They may not be as flashy as the high-end skins, but they have a unique appeal of their own.
How to Get a Butterfly Knife Skin in CS2
There are several ways to get your hands on a Butterfly Knife, each with its own risks, costs, and rewards:
Opening Cases
Opening cases is one of the most exciting but riskiest ways to get a Butterfly Knife. Butterfly Knives are only available in specific cases, like the Operation Breakout Case or Spectrum Case. However, the odds of actually pulling one are extremely low—estimated at around 0.26% or lower per case opening.
Steam Market
The Steam Community Market is the most direct way to buy a Butterfly Knife. It allows players to browse listings, compare prices, and buy skins instantly without any risk of scams. However, because of Steam's transaction fee, prices on the marketplace are slightly higher than on third-party websites.
Trading With Other Players
Trading is another excellent approach to obtaining a Butterfly Knife for those who appreciate bargain-making and negotiations. Skin trading can be done directly among other players or via specialized trading sites and Discord servers. Trading has the benefit in that, particularly if you have valuable skins to offer in trade, you might get a better deal than buying straight forward. However, trading also includes risks such as price manipulation and fraud.
Exploring Games on Clash.gg
If you're looking for a more exciting way to get a Butterfly Knife, platforms like Clash.gg offer a fun and interactive approach. Instead of outright buying skins, players can try their luck through mini-games to earn skins, including Butterfly Knives. It's a different way to build up your inventory, adding an element of chance and strategy to the process.
The Butterfly Knife: The Ultimate Flex in CS2
There's just something special about a Butterfly Knife in CS2. It could be how it flips effortlessly in your hand, catches the light as you inspect it, or makes every round feel more stylish.
Some gamers find great excitement in the quest, following the ideal pattern, making exchanges, or, at last, opening one after numerous cases. For others, it's about the feeling you get every time you pull it out in a match, knowing that you're holding one of the most iconic knives in the game.
If you're ready to get your hands on one, plenty of ways exist. You can try your luck unboxing, scout the market, or dive into trading. But if you're looking for a more exciting way to score your dream knife, Clash.gg gives you the chance to win big through fun, interactive games.
Your perfect Butterfly Knife could be just one spin away!
About the author
Mikail "Maikelele" Bill is a former professional CS:GO player known for his sharp AWP skills and fearless playstyle. He competed for top teams like NiP, G2, and FaZe, leaving a lasting mark on the game. Now, he shares his insights on CS:GO, esports culture, and the stories behind the skins.