Sett vs Malzahar TOP Matchup Guide | LaneStomp

Back to matchup selector

Champion

Opponent

RoleGenerate matchup

Sett

VS

Top

Malzahar

Sett vs Malzahar

Updated Jun 3, 2026

Overview

Sett should use his high early agency and lane pressure to force Malzahar into uncomfortable melee trades and deny him a passive scaling lane.
This matchup is control versus control, where Sett aims to win through close-range brawls and force Malzahar off his push and roam rhythm.

Trading pattern

Start trades by closing distance with (Q), then use (E) to pull Malzahar near minions for a stun and build grit.
Spend grit on a centered (W) shield and true damage when Malzahar is forced to stand close, punishing his predictable positioning.
Avoid chasing if Malzahar sidesteps your (W) center or after missing (E), as your biggest damage and control tools will be on cooldown.

Danger windows

Be cautious when (R) is available; avoid extended trades or engaging without backup to prevent suppression lockdown.
After missing (E) or spending (W), your threat drops significantly; avoid all-ins during these cooldowns to prevent being poked down.
Watch for ganks when pushing aggressively, as your low mobility makes you vulnerable if overextended.

Early game

Use the early waves to pressure Malzahar and force him under tower by killing his Voidlings quickly.
Look to engage short melee trades using autos and (E) to pull Malzahar close, building grit for a strong (W) payoff.
Avoid extended poke before you have grit or item spikes, as Malzahar's ranged damage can chip you down if you overcommit.

Power spikes

At level 6, use (R) to displace and isolate Malzahar, forcing him into unfavorable brawls or enabling your team to follow up.
After your first bruiser item, increase pressure by forcing trades where your grit shield and true damage make you harder to burst.
Respect Malzahar's level 6 (R) suppression by spacing carefully and holding key defensive tools for when he commits.

Win conditions

Win lane by forcing Malzahar into melee trades where you can stack grit and land centered (W) true damage.
Use level 6 (R) to create pick or teamfight opportunities by repositioning Malzahar or his teammates.
Apply wave pressure to deny Malzahar safe farming and roam potential, controlling the pace toward your preferred medium-length game.