Valorant
Counter-Strike 2
What Is a Trade Kill in Valorant and CS2?
Killing the enemy who just killed your teammate, so the exchange ends one for one instead of a lost duel.
What does trade mean in Valorant and CS2?
A trade (or trade kill) is when you kill the enemy who just killed your teammate, usually within a second or two. The fight ends one for one, so your team does not lose the numbers advantage. Getting the trade is also called a refrag.
Why trading wins rounds
In tactical shooters, rounds are decided by numbers. A 5v4 after an untraded death is a big disadvantage, while a quick trade restores the balance at 4v4. Teams that trade well can afford aggressive entry frags, because even when the first player dies, the second one is right behind to punish the kill.
How to set up good trades
- Keep trade distance. Stay close enough to swing the same angle within a second, but not so close that one spray or ability kills you both.
- Swing together, not one by one. Peeking a second after your teammate dies gives the enemy time to reposition or reload.
- Listen to your teammate’s call. “One on A main, he’s low” tells you exactly where to aim.
- Use utility before the swing. A flash or a smoke from your utility makes the trade much safer.
- Avoid the bait mindset. Trading is a plan, not leaving a teammate alone so you can farm the kill.
Example
In CS2, the entry player peeks Banana on Inferno and dies to an AWP. The second player, two steps behind, immediately swings the same angle and kills the AWPer before he can rechamber. The round stays 4v4.
Good trades and bad trades
Not every one-for-one is a good trade. Losing your AWPer for an enemy on a pistol, or trading late in the round when the bomb is ticking, can still lose the round. In-game leaders, the IGL, plan positions so that the most valuable players are traded first.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an untradeable position?
A spot where no teammate can reach the enemy who kills you in time, such as a deep off-angle. It can surprise opponents but gives up the safety of the trade.
Do trades count as a stat?
Many stat sites track traded deaths and trade kills. A high share of traded deaths usually means a player is dying in useful positions.