Best MW2 Submachine Gun class: Meta Modern Warfare 2 SMG loadouts (Season 5)

If you're a fan of speedy playstyles, you'll need to know the best classes for SMGs in MW2 - and we've got a list of the meta loadouts you should be using in Season 5 of Modern Warfare 2 right here.
Call of Duty has historically favoured the speed and agility of SMGs, as their time to kill in close-quarters combat is unparalleled. While the game has switched things up and favoured the best Assault Rifles instead, Submachine Guns are still incredibly strong and well worth picking in your loadouts.
So, make sure to carry on reading to see all of the best Submachine Gun classes in Modern Warfare 2, as we've got plenty of picks to suit whatever you're looking for.
- If you're looking for an overall MW2 tier list that includes every weapon type, check out our list of the best Modern Warfare 2 guns
Best Modern Warfare 2 Submachine Gun, ranked
5. Lachmann Sub

Best Lachmann Sub loadout in MW2
- Muzzle: Bruen Pendulum
- Barrel: FTAC M-Sub 12"
- Laser: VLK LZR 7MW
- Underbarrel: FSS Sharkfin 90
- Rear Grip: LM Cronus Grip
A true classic of the SMG category and an iconic pick that will deliver in any situation, the Lachmann Sub deserves its top-tier reputation.
Offering a balance of damage and stability, the Lachmann is incredibly consistent and is effective in almost every match. With a pick rate of around 1.4% according to WZRanked, it is just above the middle of the pack and overall a strong pick.
As you would expect, the build above pushes the gun's firepower to the limit while also giving it the mobility to put pressure on any foes you are pursuing, making it a fine choice when considering the best MW2 SMG classes in Season 5.
4. VEL-46

Best VEL-46 loadout in MW2
- Muzzle: Spiral V3.5 Flash Hider
- Laser: VLK LZR 7MW
- Stock: Demo RXT Stock
- Underbarrel: Edge-47 Grip
- Rear Grip: Schlager Soldier Grip
While it may not have the TTK of the Lachmann or Vaznev-9k, the Vel-46 is certainly a lot easier to use which makes it simple to land every single shot on target, making it well worthy among the best SMG loadouts in MW2.
Sometimes, it's better to go back to the basics and prioritise ease of use over raw firepower, and the VEL-46 definitely fits this blueprint. With a pick rate of 1.5%, there certainly are a few players who agree.
- If you're on the hunt for the best Warzone 2 weapons, we've got you covered with our dedicated tier list.
3. ISO 45

Best ISO 45 loadout in MW2
- Muzzle: Lockshot KT85
- Laser: 1mW Quick Fire Laser
- Stock: SK-3 Cheetah
- Magazine: 45 Round Drum
- Rear Grip: EXP Shear
If you're looking for one of the best SMG classes across both MW2 multiplayer and Warzone 2, then the ISO 45 loadout above is definitely one to consider.
Featuring a massive 45 Round Drum magazine that will ensure that no enemy is beyond your reach, the ISO 45 maintains the speed and accuracy that you will need to succeed in both game modes.
It is also one of the most popular SMGs in the game right now with a pick rate of 2.4%, so you certainly won't be alone when picking up this gun.
2. Fennec 45

Best Fennec 45 loadout in MW2
- Barrel: Forge TAC Ninja
- Laser: VLK LZR 7MW
- Stock: Agile Assault-7 Stock
- Underbarrel: Phase-3 Grip
- Rear Grip: Fennec Rubber Grip
While it was once the king of the MW2 SMGs, the Fennec 45 dropped down the tier list after multiple nerfs in past patches, but it has begun its return to the top, leaving it in strong contention for the best SMG class in Modern Warfare 2.
The gun sports one of the fastest fire rates in MW2 and a devastating TTK if you can land all of your shots on target. On top of this, the loadout above provides the weapon with a strong balance of stability, mobility, and damage, making it a brilliant setup if you're looking for an aggressive SMG.
The player base definitely agrees too, with a current pick rate of 4.8%, which is the second-highest of every single SMG, eclipsed only by our top choice.
- Looking for the strongest loadouts for MW2 Ranked play? We've got the answers
1. Vaznev-9k

Best Vaznev-9k loadout in MW2
- Muzzle: Bruen Pendulum
- Barrel: KAS-1 381MM
- Laser: FSS OLE-V laser
- Stock: Otrezat Stock
- Underbarrel: FSS Sharkfin 90
Moving onto the top spot, our pick for the best SMG class in MW2 goes to the devastating Vaznev-9k - which currently maintains an insanely high pick rate of 9.3%.
Equipped with one of the best TTKs, solid mobility, and a snappy ADS, it's easy to lock onto an enemy and eliminate them before they have a chance to respond.
The build above pushes the Vaznev-9k to its limits and transforms the weapon into a monster capable of dominating any and every server that it enters.
Those are the best SMGs in MW2 for dominating multiplayer, alongside a top-tier loadout for each of them. Remember, the MW2 meta changes with every update, so we'll make sure to keep the list refreshed anytime there's a move in the rankings.
Be sure to check out our Modern Warfare 2 homepage for all of the latest news and guides.