OSRS Charge Earth Orb Guide for Profit and XP

In Old School RuneScape (OSRS), charging the Earth Orb is a fantastic method for players to combine profit with Magic experience. This guide dives into everything you need to know about charging Earth Orbs, from requirements to strategies, ensuring you maximize efficiency. Whether you’re a mid-level player or a seasoned veteran, this activity offers steady gold and XP with minimal hassle.
Charging Earth Orbs is a popular activity because it balances profitability with skill training. Unlike other Magic training methods that burn through gold, this one can actually make you money while leveling up. The process involves casting the Charge Earth Orb spell at the Earth Obelisk, turning unpowered orbs into valuable Earth Orbs used in crafting and other skills.
Key Benefits of Charging Earth Orbs
- Profit Potential: Earth Orbs sell for a decent margin on the Grand Exchange.
- Magic XP: Each cast grants 70 XP, making it a solid training method.
- Low Risk: The activity is safe with minimal chance of death or loss.
- Accessibility: Mid-level players can start with manageable requirements.
Who Should Try This Method?
This method suits players with at least 60 Magic who want to train without breaking the bank. It’s also great for those looking to fund other skills, like Crafting or Construction, using the profits. Ironmen can benefit too, as Earth Orbs are useful for glassblowing.
Requirements for Charging Earth Orbs
Before you head to the Earth Obelisk, you’ll need to meet some basic requirements. These ensure you can cast the spell and access the necessary areas safely.
Magic Level and Spell
You need at least 60 Magic to cast the Charge Earth Orb spell, which is found in the standard spellbook. Each cast requires:
- 30 Earth runes
- 3 Cosmic runes
- 1 Unpowered orb
Quest and Location Access
The Earth Obelisk is located deep in the Edgeville Dungeon, within the Wilderness section. While no specific quests are mandatory, completing Lost City is recommended for access to a staff of earth, which saves runes. Be cautious, as the Wilderness carries a risk of PKers, though the obelisk area is relatively safe.
Recommended Gear and Inventory
Your setup should prioritize efficiency and safety. Here’s a suggested loadout:
Slot | Item | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Weapon | Staff of Earth | Provides unlimited Earth runes |
Armor | Graceful or lightweight gear | Faster run energy regeneration |
Inventory | Cosmic runes, unpowered orbs | Spellcasting essentials |
Optional | Teleport (e.g., Games Necklace) | Quick exit from Wilderness |
Step-by-Step Guide to Charge Earth Orbs
Ready to start? Follow these steps to charge Earth Orbs efficiently. This process assumes you’re starting from Edgeville for convenience.
Step 1: Gather Supplies
Buy unpowered orbs and cosmic runes from the Grand Exchange. If you’re using a staff of earth, you only need cosmic runes and orbs. Check current prices to estimate profit margins—typically, unpowered orbs cost around 100-150 GP, while Earth Orbs sell for 800-1000 GP.
Step 2: Travel to the Earth Obelisk
From Edgeville, head to the dungeon entrance near the bank. Navigate through the dungeon to the Wilderness section (level 4-6). The Earth Obelisk is in a small chamber guarded by level 28 Earth Elementals. Watch out for other players in the Wilderness, but the obelisk itself is a safe spot.
Step 3: Cast the Spell
At the obelisk, cast Charge Earth Orb on it with unpowered orbs in your inventory. Each cast consumes one orb, 3 cosmic runes, and 30 earth runes (or none with a staff). You’ll gain 70 Magic XP per cast, and the orb becomes an Earth Orb.
Step 4: Bank and Repeat
Once your inventory is full of Earth Orbs, teleport or walk back to Edgeville to bank. Restock on supplies and repeat the process. With practice, you can charge 25-27 orbs per trip, taking about 5-7 minutes per cycle.
Profit and XP Breakdown
Let’s crunch the numbers to see why this method shines. The following assumes average Grand Exchange prices and efficient trips.
Experience Per Hour
Charging 25 orbs per trip with 10 trips per hour yields about 17,500 Magic XP per hour (25 orbs x 70 XP x 10 trips). This is comparable to other mid-level Magic training methods but with the added bonus of profit.
Profit Per Hour
Here’s a sample calculation based on typical prices:
Item | Cost (GP) | Revenue (GP) | Quantity per Hour | Net (GP) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Unpowered Orb | 120 | – | 250 | -30,000 |
Cosmic Rune | 100 | – | 750 | -75,000 |
Earth Orb | – | 900 | 250 | 225,000 |
Total | – | – | – | 120,000 |
This nets around 120,000 GP per hour, though prices fluctuate. Always check the Grand Exchange tracker before starting.
Factors Affecting Profit
- Market Prices: Orb and rune prices can spike or drop.
- Efficiency: Faster trips increase hourly rates.
- Wilderness Risk: Rare PKer encounters may disrupt runs.
Tips to Optimize Your Earth Orb Runs
Maximize your gains with these pro tips, designed to save time and boost profits.
Use Runelite for Efficiency
The Runelite client offers plugins like inventory setups and ground markers to streamline your trips. Mark the obelisk path to avoid getting lost, and use the GE tracker plugin to monitor price trends.
Minimize Wilderness Exposure
Stick to low-traffic worlds to reduce PKer risks. Carry only essentials—unpowered orbs, runes, and a teleport item. If attacked, the obelisk chamber’s ladder provides a quick escape.
Combine with Other Activities
While banking in Edgeville, consider quick tasks like herb runs or birdhouse runs to diversify income. This keeps your sessions engaging and boosts overall GP per hour.
Track Your Progress
Use a spreadsheet or Runelite’s loot tracker to monitor XP and profit. This helps you adjust strategies if prices shift or if you want to push u2013 for example, switching to air orbs if margins improve.
Charging Earth Orbs in OSRS is a reliable way to train Magic while earning solid profits. With a low barrier to entry and consistent returns, it’s perfect for players looking to fund their adventures or grind toward 99 Magic. Grab your staff, stock up on orbs, and head to the Earth Obelisk—your bank and XP bar will thank you.