Overwatch currencies explained

Four currencies, four jobs. One is bought with money; the rest you earn by playing.

Premium

What it is: The premium currency.
What it buys: The premium Battle Pass, and cosmetics in the Shop.
How to get it: Bought with real money. Up to 600 are also available free through the Battle Pass.
Beginner confusion: Not the same as Credits.

Free

Mostly premium

What it is: The currency for Mythic cosmetics.
What it buys: Mythic skins and their customisation levels in the Mythic Shop.
How to get it: Mainly through the premium Battle Pass.
Beginner confusion: They do not appear until you engage with Mythics. See the Mythic page.

Free

What it is: A currency earned in Competitive.
What it buys: Special cosmetic weapon variants such as Golden and Jade weapons.
How to get it: By winning or drawing Competitive matches.
Beginner confusion: You do not need to play Competitive to enjoy the game.

What do I actually need to pay for?

DidIThrow advice

Nothing. Every hero and mode is free. If you decide to spend, the most common purchase is the premium Battle Pass. Treat it as optional.

Seasons change details like tier counts and prices. The in-game Battle Pass and Shop screens are always the final word.

Do I have to spend money to enjoy Overwatch?

No. Every hero and every gameplay feature is free. Money is only for cosmetics, and cosmetics do not make a hero stronger.

Which currency should I save?

Credits and Competitive Points are free to earn, so there is no rush. Coins and Mythic Prisms are worth spending only when you know what you want.

Are Coins and Credits the same?

No. Coins are premium currency you buy with money. Credits are a free currency you earn through play.