Caitlyn vs Kai'Sa ADC Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

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Caitlyn

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ADC

Kai'Sa

Caitlyn vs Kai'Sa

Confidence highUpdated Jun 7, 2026

Overview

Caitlyn wins short trades using superior range and punishes Kai'Sa's forward steps for CS.
Maintain wave control to leverage trap zones and turret pressure against Kai'Sa's weaker early all-ins.

Trading pattern

Punish Kai'Sa stepping up for cannon or ranged minions with autos and (Q) when enemy support can't counter.
Layer (W) traps on retreat paths and turret edges to zone Kai'Sa and limit her repositioning.
Avoid extended trades if (E) is down, as Kai'Sa's all-in threat increases without your disengage.

Danger windows

Kai'Sa's all-in is strongest after her support applies CC and when she has plasma stacks.
Avoid stepping into brush or engage range when (E) is down to prevent sudden Kai'Sa follow-ups.
Watch for (R) repositioning after plasma marks; respect this as a kill threat on isolated targets.

Early game

Use level 1 range to harass Kai'Sa during early CS attempts before support cooldowns are ready.
Hold (E) to counter Kai'Sa's engage; avoid using it for poke to prevent opening all-in windows.
Thin the wave early to reduce Kai'Sa's isolated (Q) damage and create safer poke angles.

Power spikes

Level 1: Caitlyn's range advantage lets you hit first and control wave pressure early.
First completed marksman item: Crash waves with support cover to maximize plate damage and dragon setup.
Respect Kai'Sa's first item spike and level 6 (R) by holding (E) for disengage against her all-in threat.

Win conditions

Convert range and trap control into plate leads by crashing waves with support help.
Punish Kai'Sa's CS attempts under turret to deny farm and force unfavorable recalls.
Use lane priority to secure dragon vision and teamfight positioning, maximizing Caitlyn's siege and DPS role.