Best Max Defenders in Pokémon GO (2026): Full Tier List

What Is a Max Defender?

In Max Battles, Defenders (also called Chargers) are the Pokémon you keep on the field outside the Max Phase. Their job is to tank damage and spam Fast Moves to Charge up the Max Meter as quickly as possible. The most important quality a Defender can have is a 0.5-second Fast Move — that speed is what fills the meter fast. High HP and Defense stats matter too, as they let your Defender stay on the field longer.

Once the Max Phase begins, swap out to your Attacker — your Defender's job is done for that Round.

Defender Tier List (2026)

🏆 S Tier — The Best of the Best

⭐ A Tier — Great Alternatives

Solid Defenders that are well worth your resources. If you can't get an S Tier option, these are your next best choices.

✅ B Tier — Decent but Situational

These Defenders can do the job, but better options exist higher up the list. Use them if you don't have access to higher tiers yet.

Quick Tips for Defenders

• Always use only Fast Moves during the battle phase — never Charged Moves
• Level up Max Guard on your Defender to help Protect the team
• Pick a Defender that resists the boss's type for maximum survivability