Metal Claw
Prinplup is a Water-type Pokemon in Pokemon GO, originally from the Sinnoh region (#394, Generation 4). With a max CP of 1,923 and base stats of 150/139/162 (Atk/Def/Sta), Prinplup has a total stat product of 451.
Prinplup is weak to Electric, Grass-type moves. It resists Fire, Ice, Steel, Water-type attacks. Prinplup is a 3.0 km buddy Pokemon.
Stats
Type Chart
Moves
Fast Moves
Charged Moves
Best Moveset Analysis
Among fast moves, the highest DPS option is Metal Claw (12 DPS), while Bubble generates energy the fastest (12 EPS).
Forms & Variants
Raid Guide
Prinplup as Raid Boss
Not Currently in RaidsPrinplup is not currently available as a raid boss. When Prinplup returns to raids, here are the best counters to defeat it. A 100% IV Prinplup from raids would have 972 CP at level 20, or 1215 CP at level 25 with weather boost.
Best Counters to Beat Prinplup
Prinplup is weak to Electric, Grass-type moves, so counters with these move types will deal the most damage.
How to Get Prinplup
Prinplup evolves from Piplup using 25 Candy.
A Shadow version of Prinplup is available from Team GO Rocket. Shadow Prinplup knows Frustration as its charged move, which can be removed with a Charged TM. Purifying costs 3,000 Stardust and 3 Candy, and the purified form learns Return. Walking Prinplup as your buddy earns 1 candy every 3.0 km.
Prinplup Catch CP
These are the possible CP values when encountering Prinplup in different scenarios. The range shows minimum (lowest IV floor) to maximum (100% perfect IV).
A 100% IV Prinplup from raids or eggs will show 972 CP at level 20. If you see this number, don't hesitate — it's a perfect catch!
Trainer Tips
Prinplup is a Water-type Pokemon with a stat total of 451. With its bulk spread of 139 Defense and 162 Stamina, Prinplup has solid survivability in battles.
Watch out for Electric, Grass-type moves when using Prinplup. These types deal super effective damage that can cut into Prinplup's performance.
Prinplup's moves get a damage boost in Rainy weather. Take advantage of weather conditions to maximize your DPS in raids and gym battles.
Unlocking a second charged move costs 10,000 Stardust and 25 Candy. With 3 charged moves available, a second move gives Prinplup much better coverage in PvP battles.
Should I Invest in Prinplup?
Power-Up Costs
Verdict
Collector's Pick
Prinplup is a Water-type Pokemon with base stats of 150/139/162 (Atk/Def/Sta) and a max CP of 1,923. While it doesn't currently rank among the top raid attackers or PvP contenders, every Pokemon has its place in a trainer's collection. Prinplup may shine during specific events, in limited-format cups, or when new moves are added in future updates. For now, hold onto a good IV specimen but save your Stardust and Candy for more impactful investments unless you're a dedicated fan of this Pokemon.
Shadow vs Regular: Shadow Prinplup deals 20% more damage but takes ~20% more. For raids, Shadow is generally the better investment. For PvP, evaluate matchups carefully — the bulk loss can be significant.