Is Buying PoE 1 Items Worth It?

[jornw]

I’ve seen countless threads about whether it’s okay to buy Path of Exile 1 Items from trusted shops like U4GM, so I wanted to open up a genuine discussion about it. Some players believe the game should be 100% grind-based, while others see item trading as a normal part of PoE’s in-game economy.

Personally, I started using U4GM after getting frustrated with unreliable in-game trades. Their delivery is quick, prices are fair, and I’ve never had a single issue with account safety. It’s not about skipping the game — I still grind maps and craft for fun — but sometimes, you just want that one piece to complete a build or push your Atlas faster.

For example, last league, I needed a specific unique ring that wouldn’t drop after days of farming. I ordered from U4GM, and within ten minutes, it was in my inventory. That single purchase revived my motivation to keep playing and experimenting with new builds.

Of course, PoE purists might argue it’s “pay-to-win,” but to me, it’s more about play efficiency. As long as it doesn’t harm others or the game’s balance, I think using verified services like U4GM can actually enhance the player experience.

What about you? Do you think buying PoE items takes away from the grind, or do you see it as a practical shortcut for busy players?