M4 Rifles: M4A4 vs M4A1-S

Counter-Terrorists choose between two M4 rifles: M4A4 and M4A1-S. The M4A4 costs $2300, has 30 ammo per magazine, deals 23 damage, and is fully automatic. The M4A1-S costs $2050, has 20 ammo per magazine, deals 23 damage, and has lower recoil (semi-automatic default, switchable to automatic).

M4A4 advantages: more ammo (30), cheaper. M4A1-S advantages: lower recoil, cheaper ($250 less), quieter (no sound penetration for enemy hearing). The choice is playstyle-dependent: aggressive players prefer M4A4 (more ammo for spraying), defensive/precise players prefer M4A1-S (lower recoil for controlled firing).

Both M4s spray upward then slightly right, gentler than AK. The spray is learnable and manageable. Most players develop proficiency in both rifles. Professional play shows both rifles in use, though regional preference exists (M4A4 more common in some regions, M4A1-S in others).

Damage-per-shot is identical (23 body, 63 head), so choosing based on playstyle rather than damage. If you prefer defensive play and long-range precise firing, M4A1-S is superior. If you prefer aggressive site takes with suppressive fire, M4A4 is better. Both are viable at all skill levels.