What are PDAs used for in Stalker 2?

In Stalker 2, PDAs are more than just trashed electronics—they serve as crucial tools scattered around the Zone, helping in various ways. From discovering hidden lore, and finding stash locations, to completing missions, they add much-needed depth to a game. With limited inventory space and weight becoming critical, knowing the value of each PDA will be a survival factor in the danger zone.

Let's discuss PDAs in Stalker 2 and why managing them is important for your progress.

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Why are PDAs used in Stalker 2?

PDA in Stalker 2 (Image via GSC Game World)

The purpose of PDAs in Stalker 2

PDAs in Stalker 2 fall into two main categories: Informational and Quest-related. These serve to carry out different objectives within the gameplay aspect, whether it is revealing a secret or unlocking a critical objective.

Informational

• What they do: These contain snippets of lore, interactions between characters, or information that hints at where specific stashes or artifacts are kept.
• How they work: When you pick one up, the information is automatically added to your notes section in the menu. If the PDA includes a stash location, it will be marked on your map.
• Why they matter: Even though they seem minor, these PDAs often lead you to useful loot or help you better understand the Zone's rich backstory.

Quest-related

• What do they do: Identified by a brown tick in the top-left corner of their inventory icon, these PDA's are used to complete the main or side quests.
• How do they work: These cannot be dropped/sold/left behind so you don't get locked out of completing something.
• Why do they matter: Quest-related PDAs advance the storyline or provide necessary clues for progressing through your tasks.

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Managing PDAs in your Inventory

In Stalker 2, inventory weight is a constant concern. Every PDA weighs 0.2 kg, and while that seems small, carrying several can quickly add unnecessary bulk—especially when you’re running from mutants or looting enemies. Here’s how to handle them:

• Sell Informational PDAs: Once you’ve read their contents, sell them to traders like Hamster or Huron for a few coupons. While the payout isn’t huge, it’s essentially free money, and every bit helps when upgrading gear.
• Store PDAs you want to keep: If you want to hold onto PDAs for sentimental reasons, stash them in your personal storage near vendors in faction bases. This keeps them safe without weighing the inventory.
• Complete quests to delete quest PDAs: As quest-related PDAs cannot be sold or stored, the best way to free up space is to complete the associated mission. When done with the task, your PDA will automatically disappear from your inventory.

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Why should you pick up every PDA?

PDAs in inventory from Stalker 2 (Image via GSC Game World)

Even if you're not much of a completionist, finding every PDA you can is a good idea. Here's why:

1. Possible Hidden Stash Locations: Some PDAs point you in the direction of hidden stashes filled with valuable gear, artifacts, and even weapons.
2. Mission Progression: Quest-related PDAs often serve as necessary objects for the main quest and secondary mission progression.
3. Zone Lore and Secrets: Many informational PDAs also help bring flavor to the world, deepening your knowledge of the Zone and its denizens.

Tip: Always read a PDA by hand before selling or storing it. Some contain cryptic clues about rare loot or shortcuts to objectives that won't be apparent at first glance.

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The downsides

PDAs are incredibly useful, but holding onto too many can have consequences. Every additional kilogram in your inventory slows you down, cuts your stamina, and makes you more vulnerable in encounters. In a game where weight management can be a matter of life and death, take care of these as soon as possible.

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Final thoughts

PDAs in Stalker 2 are far from being mere meaningless collectibles. They are tools for discovering hidden knowledge and furthering missions. In some cases, you'll even earn a bit of money by completing a PDA's attached quest.

Thus keeping your inventory lean by selling, storing, or completing their main quests will keep the gameplay smooth. Next time you stumble upon a PDA while out in the wild, grab it.

Also check out — Stalker 2 walkthrough: How to complete Dead Frequency mission