Top 10 Best Steel Type Pokemon

Steel-types have a reputation for being some of the toughest Pokémon around, thanks to their high defenses and long list of resistances. They can shrug off attacks that would leave plenty of other types looking for the nearest Pokémon Center.

From sleek, high-speed battlers to tanky, durable defenders, these Pokémon bring a lot to the field. They are versatile, reliable, and, in many cases, look like they were designed by someone who really wanted armor to be fashionable.

Think about their abilities, movesets, and iconic designs, then decide which Steel-types deserve to rank highest. Some are legends in their own right, while others might surprise you with their competitive potential or unique traits.

Steel-type Pokémon also pair with types like Psychic, Rock, and Dragon, creating some especially interesting combinations for team building. Whether you prefer raw defense, sharp offense, or a Pokémon that looks like it could survive being dropped from orbit, this list is all about celebrating the best Steel-types out there.

The Top Ten

Metagross

Metagross, known in Japan as Metagross, first appeared in Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire. It is a Steel and Psychic-type Pokémon and the final evolution of Beldum. Metagross is known for its high intelligence, powerful physical attacks, and balanced stats, making it a favorite in competitive battles.

Give it Hammer Arm, Gyro Ball, Earthquake, and Explosion. Give it a Relaxed nature to raise its Defense and lower its Speed. Since it is normally slow and has a nature to make it slower, not only does Gyro Ball get STAB, but it also becomes more effective when you are slower.
You might need to use Hammer Arm on some enemies, but that would make you slower, which in turn makes Gyro Ball even stronger.
Earthquake is good for dealing with other Steel types and Poison types, not that either of those would be able to hurt Metagross much. Steel is weak to Fire, so Earthquake can help with that too. Ground is super-effective against Electric and Rock types as well. If a Steel type can use Magnet Rise or has Levitate, use Hammer Arm.
Only use Explosion in an emergency or if you have about 20 health left. It would cause you to faint, but it would probably also defeat the opponent. And if you have 20 HP, you are probably going to faint soon anyway.
Lucario

Lucario was created by Ken Sugimori and first appeared as a central character in the film Pokémon: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew. It was later introduced in the main series games with Pokémon Diamond and Pearl. Lucario has since appeared in numerous sequels, spinoff titles, and a wide range of merchandise... read more

Aura Sphere is going to kill you all. End of story.
Lucario got voted number one Fighting type, so let's make him number one in Steel too. Although as good as Lucario is, Metagross is going to be some competition to outrank.
All of Fighting's weaknesses are canceled out by his Steel side, so he's got all the weaknesses of Steel, and that's it.
Hey, Lucario also has the best look. I mean, doesn't it look beast how he's kneeling down and giving you a menacing stare? That's in HeartGold/SoulSilver.
Let's face it: Lucario is the best.

While Metagross is at the top of this list, and for good reason, we can't just ignore Lucario. Not only is he a Steel-Fighting type, but he is weak to almost nothing except... Steel. And while his stat totals are far inferior to Metagross, his moves are unique compared to Metagross'. Aura Sphere is something nobody should be ignoring.
And while Metagross is likely deserving of the number-one spot, and Aggron is by far one of the best Pokémon out there, I cannot argue with this system. Maybe Lucario too deserves more credit.
Aggron

Aggron is a dual-type Steel and Rock Pokémon that evolves from Lairon, which itself evolves from Aron. It is recognized for its heavy armor and strong territorial instincts. Aggron often restores mountain habitats that have been damaged by human activity.... read more

I have to admit that Aggron is one of the best Steel types. Its ability is Rock Head, so it cannot take recoil damage, making its use of Double-Edge very effective. Aggron has a great move set, being able to learn Electric, Fighting, Rock, and Dark moves as well as its base types, Steel and Ground.
Its Speed isn't very high, which is why its move Autotomize is good, boosting its Speed stat. It is also a massive tank. Its Defense is so high, not even a Fighting move will one-shot it. It can also Mega Evolve in Gen 6, making it even better.

Aggron is my favorite. When you combine it with Swampert in Emerald, the two are nearly unstoppable. The only downside is the fact that he is a Steel-Rock type, and I think we all know how bad Rock types are.
Once he is in his Mega Evolution, Aggron drops the Rock and becomes a pure Steel type, which makes him even cooler than before. It also helps that he looks cool, and even cooler in his Mega Evolution.
Scizor

Scizor, known in Japan as Hassam, is a dual-type Bug and Steel Pokémon. It evolves from Scyther when traded while holding a Metal Coat. Scizor was first introduced in the Generation II games, Pokémon Gold and Silver, released in 1999.

I have him, and he is a total beast. He has been nothing more than a powerhouse in many battles. With only one weakness compared to the four that Metagross has, the three Lucario has, the three Aggron has, three for Empoleon, two for Skarmory, four for Excadrill, and four for Steelix, it kind of makes me mad he's not higher on this list.
He has great stats, a solid move pool, and a Mega Evolution to boot. His Speed is massive if trained right, and if you give it a decent set of moves to work with its Speed, it can even deal with Fire types before they have a chance to do anything. Scizor for the win!

Guys, we are talking about the strongest Steel type, and when it comes down to a brawl between them all, Scizor would take number one. He only has one weakness and can use some good Fighting type moves like Superpower.
Sure, its stats aren't as good as most other Steel types, but it makes up for this with its lack of weaknesses and its bulkiness. When it comes down to it, it could make short work of any other Steel type, so it should at least be in the top ten.
Dialga

Dialga, known in Japan by the same name, is a Legendary Pokémon species introduced in Pokémon Diamond and Pearl, released in 2006. It represents time and is part of the creation trio alongside Palkia and Giratina. Dialga plays a central role in the lore of the Sinnoh region.

A competitive Life Orb Dialga is just overpowered. Its typing gives it coverage against Fairy and Ice, which are usually dragons' enemies.
It has moderately high speed, so Trick Room Steelix is not a problem. Roar of Time might not be the best move, but Earth Power can cover a lot of enemies. For fighting dragon types, all you need to do is throw a few Draco Meteors or Dragon Pulses at them.

Dialga is a beast. One thing I like about Dialga is the type combination. It is the only Steel/Dragon in the whole franchise. I prefer Dialga over Palkia and Giratina (and Arceus!).
I think Palkia should be Psychic/Dragon, but we're not discussing Palkia. I believe Dialga should get 1st place.
Aegislash

Aegislash is a Steel and Ghost-type Pokémon introduced in Generation VI. It evolves from Doublade when exposed to a Dusk Stone and is the final form of Honedge.
Known as the Royal Sword Pokémon, Aegislash is said to detect leadership qualities in people. It will serve those it deems worthy to... read more

Aegislash is one of the two non-Legendary, non-Mega Pokémon in the Uber tier (the other being Blaziken), and it's easy to see why. With its insane Attack and Defense stats that come along with its different forms, it is a powerhouse.
My personal favorite set is King's Shield, Toxic, Shadow Ball (yes, my Aegislash is special), and Flash Cannon. Toxic the opponent, then alternate between King's Shield and your attacks. I swept an entire team with this strategy.
For an item, I would go with Leftovers to regain health. Next, let's talk about its typing. Steel/Ghost gives it three immunities and nine resistances.
Finally, its design and Shiny variant. A haunted sword? I want to give a medal to whoever thought up that concept. And don't get me started on the Shiny. It's black and has a red outline. So darn cool. All in all, Aegislash is one great Pokémon!
Mawile

Mega Mawile should honestly be #1. It has a 105 base attack stat, and its ability Huge Power gives it an effective attack stat of 210. You can give it Swords Dance, Iron Head, Play Rough, and Knock Off, and it can literally destroy everything. Even Lugia and Deoxys-A will think twice about switching in. And that's without Swords Dance.
Also, Knock Off versus Mega Metagross equals RIP Metagross. Never forget.

She is a textbook example of being adorable, despite the jaw on her back. Prior to Gen 6, she was underappreciated because of her mediocre base stats, with an average attack as her best stat.
With Huge Power and Fairy typing, she becomes one of the best potential sweepers. However, Fire and Ground type Pokémon, Spikes, and strong Choice Scarf users can still sweep her.
Skarmory

Skarmory, known in Japan as Airmd, is a dual-type Steel and Flying Pokémon introduced in Generation II. It does not evolve from or into any other Pokémon. Skarmory is recognized for its metallic wings, which are both durable and razor-sharp.

Best physical wall in the game. However, it's very hard to use. My moveset is "And to the best Physical wall in the game. Spikes to take a chunk out of each newcomer, Drill Peck being surprisingly strong for a Defensive Pokémon, Roost to regain health consistently, and Whirlwind to switch out a potential danger.
Combined, SkarmBliss can stall most attacking Pokémon in the whole game (exceptions do exist but can be handled)". This was a moveset on Quora by Mihir Kulkarni.

Negates Ground, Fighting, and Rock. Can't be OHKO'd, has decent attack, and can use X-Scissor, Dark Pulse, and Toxic. One of the highest base defenses (if not the highest) among flying types.
It is very hard to beat in doubles/triples when supported with Mud Sport or Water Sport, which seem built to help Skarmory. They cater to Skarmory's weaknesses.
Steelix

Steelix, known in Japan as Haganeil, is a dual-type Steel and Ground Pokémon. It evolves from Onix when traded while holding a Metal Coat. Steelix was introduced in the second generation of games and is notable for its enormous, metal-plated body and powerful physical defense.

If you teach him Heavy Slam, since Steelix has a lot of weight, it does, in my opinion, more damage than Gyro Ball. Earthquake is a good coverage move and deals a significant amount of damage. Ice Fang also covers Flying and Ground types and has a chance of freezing your opponent.
Finally, I use Stealth Rock since it helps in battles against other Pokémon. His Defense is super high, so physical attacks won't do much. Steelix is a force to be reckoned with and a very good Pokémon.

I don't understand why Steelix is considered weak. It can learn Earthquake, which makes Fire types no threat. Teach it Rock Slide, and Fire types with Levitate are done.
After that, it can also Mega Evolve.
Magnezone

Metagross is built for attack, but what about Magnezone? Its Special Attack is awesome, and with the right moves and items, it can take on the most powerful Pokémon.
Teaching it Thunder and Flash Cannon is a good idea because of STAB. Hyper Beam is one of the most powerful special moves. If Magnezone has the ability Magnet Pull, give it a Focus Sash and teach it Mirror Coat for Pokémon that emphasize special attack.

Why isn't Magnezone tied with Metagross? He is basically the special attack counterpart of Metagross. They should be twins with the same total base stats, with Special Attack being higher for Magnezone and Attack being higher for Metagross.
But they end up having the same total base stats.

The Newcomers

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Archaludon
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Galarian Stunfisk

The Contenders

Empoleon

Empoleon, known in Japan as Emperte, is a Water and Steel-type Pokémon introduced in Generation IV. It is the final evolution of Piplup, the Water-type starter Pokémon from Pokémon Diamond and Pearl. Empoleon has a regal appearance and a trident-shaped beak that symbolizes its commanding presence.

No, Empoleon isn't just the best Steel type. It's, in fact, the best Water type, the best Steel type, the best starter, and the best Pokémon. It has great defensive and offensive typing, can work with any item easily, has a great move pool, and can counter all of its weaknesses easily.
Fighting types? Drill Peck. Ground types? Ice Beam, Scald, Waterfall, Surf, Hydro Pump, and Grass Knot. Electric types? Earthquake. It also has great base stats.

I do think that Empoleon is a really good Pokémon. On my X game, I have a level 67 Piplup. My problem is Piplup is just so darn cute I don't want to evolve him.
Empoleon's Steel type gets rid of the electric weakness.
Jirachi

Jirachi is a Steel and Psychic-type Legendary Pokémon introduced in Generation III with the release of Pokémon Ruby and Sapphire. It is easily recognized by the star-shaped protrusions on its head and a third eye on its belly.... read more

Oh my God. How is this 12th? Jirachi is so cute and powerful! You must admit, it has good attacks. Jirachi is so underrated! Give Jirachi some love!

Jirachi is probably the only steel type I know that doesn't look angry or unhappy.

Jirachi can also heal itself with Wish. This makes for a fun combo.
Bisharp

A Sucker Punch from this guy after a Swords Dance is devastating. Having a 4x weakness to Fighting means nothing if they can't survive a single round against him.
Grab Defiant and an attack-increasing nature, and you're all set. For moves, I like running Swords Dance, Iron Head, Sucker Punch, and Knock Off for utility. As for looks, he has a color scheme that I often wish other Pokémon could have.

With better stats than most of the higher-ups and an awesome design, a Swords Dance and Night Slash combo, along with a few attack bags from Super Training, make this thing unbeatable.
Heatran

HEATRAN THE TANK (and Steel types are made to TANK!) - Why this title? This Pokémon, the only Fire/Steel type, has five resistances at 25% damage, two immunities at 0%, and four regular resistances at 50%.
Offensively, this is the only Pokémon with Magma Storm, the only partial-trap move with 100+ base power. It allows me to switch out and eliminate any opponent.
More facts: it learns Dragon Pulse for coverage. PERFECT STATS! With 91 HP (386 total), 106 Defense (342), and 106 Special Defense (342), Heatran has a balanced life-to-defense ratio of 1:1. This gives it impressive potential to take hits on both sides with its total stats.

Heatran is the best Pokémon anybody could get, so you should really only vote for this guy. Me and him beat the Pokémon League alone, and we did it with nothing to heal with. He was only at level 50, and he never went on Pokémon-Amie or Super Training, and I'm not lying.
He is insanely, incredibly strong. If anybody is reading this and they like Heatmor, they have a heck of some taste. If you don't know what that means, it means you have a really good choice.
Excadrill

Wow. That's almost all I have to say. My favorite Steel type and Ground type. Grass won't do as much due to it being half Steel type. It has three obvious weaknesses: Water, Fighting, and Fire, which, being part Ground type, it can cover with a move like Bulldoze or Earthquake.
And the design is amazing. I mean, who doesn't want a Pokémon with only two weaknesses and is like Edward Scissorhands?

With an insane attack stat and an awesome ability to boot, Excadrill can really tear up the battlefield. Set up a sandstorm or get a Sand Stream user to do it for you, and it's game over. End of story.
On the other hand, its design screams badass.
Escavalier

Escavalier, design-wise, is my favourite Pokemon, but competitively, it stands (or floats) in the RU tier due to its drastically low Speed stat. A great moveset would be Facade, Twineedle, any Steel move with a base power over 80, and, most importantly, Swords Dance. I hope my vote and reason are acceptable.

The only problem it has is that it lacks reliable recovery. If it got Horn Leech or something of the sort, it would be a god.

Awesome. The only problem with it is that you have to trade it with Shelmet to evolve it. Better than Scizor, I think.
Genesect

Genesect, known in Japan by the same name, is a Legendary Pokémon species. It was first introduced in Generation V, specifically in Pokémon Black and White. Genesect is a Bug and Steel-type Pokémon, notable for being a modified ancient Pokémon revived and enhanced by Team Plasma.

Really, guys? This is a better version of Scizor because of Techno Blast. It has one weakness and can learn Ice Beam, Discharge, Water Techno Blast, Fly, Signal Beam, and Flash Cannon.
A perfect partner for almost anything and is my tied favorite Pokémon. It's so diverse, with a great ability, amazing type coverage, and awesome all-around stats with phenomenal speed and special attack.

This Pokémon is just awesome. I'm pretty sure that is a plasma cannon that it uses Techno Blast with. Genesect is the only Pokémon that can learn Techno Blast.
Aron

Aron, known in Japan as Cokodora, is a dual-type Steel and Rock Pokémon introduced in Generation III. It evolves into Lairon starting at level 32, and Lairon evolves into Aggron at level 42. Aron has a sturdy body made of steel and is known for living in mountainous regions.

Just because Aron is one of my favorite Pokémon. And because I made the list, it gave me some power in the order of it. Best doesn't always have to be the best in battles.

Amazing. Evolving into Aggron can take time, but it's so worth it. Aron is really cute and powerful in its own sense too.

Aron. What have people become? Rest in peace in pieces.
Zacian (Crowned Sword Form)
Zamazenta (Crowned Shield Form)
Registeel

Sure, it has good defenses and all, but it's not that great to use. People think it's amazing because they just think, "Oh! It's a legend, so it must be good!"
Solgaleo

Solgaleo is a dual Psychic and Steel-type Legendary Pokémon introduced in Generation VII. It evolves from Cosmoem when leveled up in Pokémon Sun starting at level 53. Solgaleo is one of the final forms of Cosmog, the other being Lunala.... read more

Yes! Solgaleo is the best. It's in the Psychic type too!
Dusk Mane Necrozma
Ferrothorn

If it has 0 Speed EVs, its Gyro Ball is devastating to fairies. Its spiky barbs hurt, and then you can just switch in Heatran when your opponent puts in a Fire type. Then bam, Flash Fire and Magma Storm the crap out of your opponent's Pokémon.
My best monotype Steel team always includes this guy, and with Leech Seed plus Leftovers, he restores like 10% of his HP every turn. He's my number one fairy killer and I recommend him to everyone.
He works as a lead too with Spikes, and as if that wasn't enough, he can sweep Water and Ground types with Power Whip. Grass normally has a bunch of weaknesses, but Steel is immune to Poison and strong against Ice, so that helps too.
Steel is amazing defensively, and Grass has great Sp. Atk, so this guy is the perfect Ferro-storm. (Get it?)
Forretress

A really great wall. My most dependable Pokemon in Pokemon Colosseum. It has one weakness: Fire. It learns very great competitive moves, such as Spikes, Toxic, Explosion, Earthquake, and Rapid Spin, etc.

Stealth Rock and Rapid Spin, though I use odd things like Counter and Volt Switch on it, and it works great.